A universal chasen — the traditional bamboo whisk used for preparing matcha. It’s hand‑carved from a single piece of bamboo and split into 60 flexible prongs. Classic, elegant, and durable, it’s perfect for whisking both matcha and hojicha.
When a chasen is new, it’s tied in the middle with a small knot, so before the first use it’s a good idea to soak it in a bowl of hot water for about a minute — the knot will loosen on its own and the whisk will open up properly. Before whisking matcha, it also helps to warm it up with a quick rinse of hot water to make the prongs more flexible.
To extend the life of your chasen, you might consider getting a naoshi. It’s a special stand that helps the whisk return to its proper shape after each use.
If you’d like to learn more about matcha tools or how to prepare matcha properly, check the links above or browse the “learn more” section.If you’d like to learn more about matcha tools or how to prepare matcha properly, check the links above or browse the “learn more” section.
Although the chasen has existed in its current form for at least half a millennium, no one has come up with a better tool yet. Even if you manage to whisk matcha lump‑free with an electric frother, it introduces too much air into the tea, which lightens the flavor and takes away some of its depth.



