If you own a chasen, you probably already know the problem: after whisking, the tines stay wet, clump together, and slowly lose their shape. Over time, bamboo whisks bend, mould, and break.
A chasen stand (kusenaoshi) solves all of this — and most matcha lovers outside Japan have never heard of it.
What Is a Chasen Stand?
A chasen stand is a small ceramic holder designed to support your matcha whisk upside down after use. This allows the tines to dry in their natural curved shape, prevents moisture from collecting at the base, and significantly extends the life of your whisk.
In Japanese, it's called a kusenaoshi (癖直し) — literally "shape restorer."
Two Styles: Which One Is Right for You?
We carry two types of chasen stands at FUKUOKA OTAKU
Multi-Size Chasen Stand (Hasami Ware)
This snowman-shaped stand works with all chasen sizes — simply flip it upside down to switch between standard and smaller travel or mug chasen. Available in 6 colors: White, Light Blue, Soft Pink, Deep Green, Black Tenmoku, and Gold Decoration.
Made in Japan from Hasami ware — one of Japan's most celebrated ceramic traditions.
・Works with standard AND small chasen (flip to switch)
・6 colors available
・Hasami ware, Made in Japan
ORIGAMI Chasen Stand (Mino Ware)
The ORIGAMI stand takes a different approach: its low, flat design minimizes contact with the whisk, maximizing airflow around the tines for faster, more even drying.
Made by ORIGAMI — a Mino ware brand from Gifu Prefecture known for combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design.
・Minimal contact design for better airflow
・Compatible with bamboo and resin chasen
・Mino ware, Made in Japan
・Available in White, Matte Green, Matte Beige
Do You Really Need One?
If you use your chasen regularly, yes. Without a stand, bamboo tines dry flat and misshapen, which affects how well they whisk and how long they last. A chasen stand is one of those small investments that quietly makes every matcha session better.
Both stands are available at FUKUOKA OTAKU — ships internationally from Fukuoka, Japan.