Cast iron teapots

A selection of cast iron teapot coming from the best factories in Japan.

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Cast iron teapots

Also known as a "tetsubin" in Japan, the cast iron teapot is undoubtedly the perfect ally for your moments of relaxation and well-being at home. Let yourself be charmed by its functionality, its unique benefits, and its timelessness at our more than century-old tea house.

Explore ourbeautiful collection of cast iron teapotscoming directly from thebest workshops in Japan, to offer you an authentic gift that respects the great principles of the traditional tea ceremony.

The cast iron teapot, an exceptional object with a strong cultural heritage

Although the cast iron teapot boasts Chinese origins, it has become a powerful symbol of Japanese culture. The Japanese transformed this object into an essential and iconic tea-serving accessory. Since the 16th century, the tetsubin has become a decorative object in its own right, thanks to increasingly sophisticated designs.

So, eachcast iron teapotfrom our catalog is carefully crafted by the very famous Maison Oigen, located in the Japanese city of Misuzawa. This locality owes its international renown to its artisans specialized in the creation of cast iron objects and in particular teapots with a refined aesthetic.

Since 1852, the Oigen foundry established by Oikawa Genjuro has been one of the most respected factories in Japan for the remarkable quality of its tetsubin. It perpetuates acraftsmanshippassed down over 5 generations through manufacturing imbued with authenticity.

Each cast iron piece is crafted from a unique, hand-shaped mold. The material used provides excellent heat retention and distribution, keeping the tea hot throughout the entire tea experience. These teapots also feature a metal filter, making it easy to brew loose-leaf tea every day. Their interior enamel also ensures durability and preserves the aromas of your favorite hot beverages.

Betjeman & Barton celebrates the Japanese tea ceremony with high-quality cast iron teapots

On theJapanese cast iron teapot market, the models of the Oigen foundry are characterized by varied designs, between elegant textures and traditionally inspired patterns. Our Tea House offers you a beautiful overview of this diversity through a wide selection of tetsubinhigh-end.

Choose the ideal room according to its capacity, between70 cl and 1.2 Lfor the models in our collection, and its style. Round, oval or square, these teapots certainly lend themselves to all desires. The “Natsume Arrare” and “Shokei Arrare” pieces, for example, feature a popular Japanese pattern made up of small raised dots, while the “Fujigata Cherry Blossom” teapot pays homage to the beauty of the sakura. Then select the color of your choice from the options available on each product page.

For aperfect tea ceremony, also adopt a colorful cast iron teapot rest, a teapot warmer or even a teacup and saucer duo. Delight a tea lover with these premium and refined accessories.

Cast iron teapots: frequently asked questions

1. Can I place a Betjeman & Barton cast iron teapot directly on an induction cooktop, gas stove, or any other heat source to boil water?

No. Our cast iron teapots are enameled on the inside: they are designed to hold water that is already hot, not to heat it up. Placing them on a direct heat source would damage the enamel and expose the cast iron to thermal shock, which could cause it to crack. This is what distinguishes them from cast iron kettles (non-enameled tetsubin), which can be used on the stove. Always heat your water separately, then pour it into the teapot.

2. How do I choose between the different models in the collection (Natsume, Zui Un, Michinoku, Shokei, Fujigata)?

The choice is based on three criteria: capacity (from 0.7 L for individual use to 1.2 L for hosting), style (Arare small relief dot pattern for Natsume and Shokei, sakura tribute for Fujigata, more understated lines for Zui Un and Michinoku), and the colors listed on each product page. If you are a beginner, a 0.7 to 0.8 L model is suitable for most daily uses. The more elaborate Zui Un and Michinoku models are intended for those seeking an exceptional piece.

3. How do I maintain a cast iron teapot on a daily basis to prevent rust?

After each use, empty the teapot completely and rinse it with clear water, without detergent. Carefully dry the inside with a soft cloth and leave the teapot open, with the lid removed, so it can air-dry completely. Never leave water or tea standing inside: residual moisture is the main cause of rust. With this care, your teapot will last for years without deteriorating.

4. Can a Betjeman & Barton cast iron teapot be put in the dishwasher?

No, never. The dishwasher, with its detergents and heat, would damage the interior enamel and cause the cast iron to oxidize. Cleaning must be done exclusively by hand, using a simple rinse with clear water followed by careful drying.

5. What should I do if rust spots appear inside or outside my cast iron teapot?

Don't worry: on quality cast iron like Oigen's, rust is harmless and easily treated. Brew green tea in the teapot and let it sit: the tannins react with the rust to form a natural protective film that fades it away. Never scrub the cast iron and do not use soap or abrasive products. Thorough drying after each use will prevent it from returning.

6. Are there teas better suited to get the most out of a cast iron teapot?

Yes. Thanks to its remarkable heat retention, cast iron excels with teas that require hot water and a sustained steep: robust black teas (Assam, Ceylon), Japanese teas, or even dark oolongs. Since its interior enamel is neutral, it does not absorb aromas, allowing you to vary the teas as you wish.

7. Can I use a cast iron teapot to prepare herbal teas or rooibos, or is it strictly reserved for tea?

It is perfectly versatile. Unlike a Yixing clay teapot that retains the memory of aromas, the interior enamel of our cast iron teapots makes them neutral: you can prepare teas, herbal teas, or rooibos without the flavors mixing. A simple rinse between uses is enough.

8. Why invest in an Oigen Japanese cast iron teapot rather than a cheaper model?

Because the quality of the cast iron and enamel makes all the difference, for both safety and durability. The low-end models flooding the market often use poor-quality cast iron and lacquers or enamels not certified for food contact, which are prone to chipping. Oigen teapots, handcrafted since 1852 using a unique mold, guarantee pure cast iron, high-quality food-grade enamel, and a lifespan that can be passed down through generations. An investment worth its price.

9. How long does a Betjeman & Barton cast iron teapot keep tea at the right temperature?

Thanks to the thickness and density of the cast iron, your tea stays at the right temperature much longer than with a porcelain teapot: generally between 30 and 45 minutes depending on the capacity and room temperature. This is precisely what makes cast iron the ideal companion for long tasting sessions and moments of sharing.

10. How do I prepare an Oigen cast iron teapot before its very first use?

Before the first infusion, rinse the inside with clear water, then pour in hot water and let it sit for a few moments before discarding it; repeat the process two or three times. This rinsing removes any manufacturing dust and prepares the enamel. Then dry thoroughly: your teapot is ready for its first brew.