JAPANESE SAKE SETS

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Learn About Japanese Sake Sets

What are the Different Types of Japanese Sake Glasses and Cups?

There are many different types of Japanese sake cups, each serving a unique purpose. The main ones include:

・Ochoko
Imagine a sake cup, and you’re likely picturing an ochoko. These small, stubby vessels are by far the most common in Japan. While many mistake them for shot glasses, they are nothing of the sort. Instead, the sake inside is meant to be slowly savored, often beside a pitcher to help with pouring. Most ochoko hold around 45 mm of sake, however, they come in all shapes and sizes.

・ Sakazuki/Hirahai
Sakazuki, also known as hirahai, are flat sake cups said to be the oldest style in Japan. They are often used in ceremonies, such as traditional Japanese weddings, or when pouring a small sample. The open rim spreads the sake over the palate, amplifying the flavor. They are also a popular choice for warm “kanzake” sake.

・ Guinomi
Guinomi are essentially bigger ochoko, promoting generous servings and heftier mouthfuls. The larger rim also accentuates the aromas.

・ Tokkuri
Often sold as a set with ochoko, tokkuri are sake pitchers used to facilitate pouring. Coming in bulky bottles of up to 1800 ml, serving sake can be strenuous. To make it easier, sake is poured from the bottle into the smaller tokkuri, which is then used to top up the sake glasses. Tokkuri are also useful for making warm kanzake by immersing it in hot water or placing it in the microwave (depending on material).

・ Katakuchi
Katakuchi are another form of sake pitcher often resembling a scaled-up sakazuki. They are flat and low, often with a small spout to help pour. The open mouth diffuses sake aromas throughout the room, allowing full appreciation of the rich bouquet.