Before you buy
Every piece we offer is handcrafted by a single artisan in northern Japan. Most items are made to order — here is everything you need to know before placing your order.
How it works
1. You place your order
Full payment is taken at checkout. Your order is confirmed immediately by email.
2. The artisan begins crafting
Your piece enters the artisan’s production queue. Each item is made by hand — no two are exactly alike.
3. We ship to you
Once complete, we ship via DHL Express. Free worldwide shipping, all taxes and duties included (DDP). You pay nothing extra at delivery.
Estimated production times
| Category | Typical lead time |
|---|---|
| Tetsubin (cast iron kettles) | Up to 12 months |
| Cast iron pots, vases, ornaments, plates | Up to 2 months |
| Joboji lacquerware (bowls, plates, trays, cutlery) | 1–4 weeks |
| Tea ceremony items (tea scoops, natsume) | 1–4 weeks |
Lead times are estimates. If your item will take significantly longer than expected, we will contact you.
Payment and cancellation
- Payment: Full payment at checkout via credit card, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Shop Pay.
- Cancellation: You may cancel within 48 hours of placing your order for a full refund, provided production has not yet begun. After 48 hours, cancellation is handled on a case-by-case basis — please contact us.
- Refunds: If your item arrives damaged, we will replace it or issue a full refund. See our Return Policy for details.
What to know about these materials
Nanbu Ironware (Kamasada)
- IH (induction) compatibility varies by product. Some tetsubin and pots are IH-compatible; others are designed for direct flame and gas stoves only. Please check the individual product page for details.
- Heavy. A tetsubin weighs 1.5–3.0 kg. This is the nature of solid cast iron.
- Develops patina over time. The surface will change with use — this is not a defect. The white mineral layer inside the kettle is natural and protects against rust.
- Releases trace iron. Water boiled in an uncoated cast iron kettle absorbs iron ions, which can supplement daily iron intake.
Joboji Lacquerware (Urumi Kogei)
- Not dishwasher safe. Hand wash with a soft sponge and mild detergent.
- Avoid prolonged sunlight. Natural urushi lacquer is sensitive to UV light.
- Colour deepens over time. The lacquer surface becomes richer and more lustrous with use — a quality prized in Japanese culture as nurturing the piece.
Questions?
We are happy to help. Reach us at cs@toramonten.com or through our contact form. We respond within 48 hours (Monday–Friday, JST).