2025-05-01T22:27:19Z

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In a grand celebration of tradition and craftsmanship, Kaikado, the renowned Japanese tea caddy manufacturer, marked its 150th anniversary with the launch of a beautifully curated book at Milan Design Week. Founded in Kyoto in 1875 by Kiyosuke Kaikado, the company is recognized as the oldest handmade tea canister manufacturer in Japan. Kaikado revolutionized the tea storage industry by introducing the first tinplate tea canisters, known as chazutsu, which provided an airtight seal, keeping tea fresher for longer than traditional containers made from earthenware, wood, or copper.

Today, Kaikados rich legacy continues under the stewardship of Takahiro Yagi, who represents the sixth generation of this family-run workshop. To commemorate this significant milestone, Yagi collaborated with ERG Media to produce a comprehensive book titled Kaikado, which encapsulates the essence of the brands long-standing dedication to excellence and craftsmanship. During Design Week, we had the opportunity to speak with both Yagi and Ted Gushue, founder of ERG, to delve deeper into this exciting project.

Kaikado and COOL HUNTING have previously collaborated on notable projects, which include a special edition tea caddy designed for the Omakase program and contributions to the Ferrari Roma project, where Yagis expertise was showcased in the cars hand-finished components. Gushue shared how their relationship blossomed from their shared passion for cars, highlighting the unique connection that led to their partnership.

We started discussions back in 2019, Gushue recalled. Taka drives a stunning Porsche 964 RS, a model highly esteemed in the Porsche community. Our conversations naturally evolved into collaborative projects, and as we approached Kaikados 150th anniversary, it felt right to create a book that tells their story.

Yagi added, We wanted to showcase our family's story and craftsmanship through this book. Its a representation of our values, passed down through generations. Gushue emphasized the importance of hand-to-hand apprenticeship in Kaikados craftsmanship, noting that the intricate skills have been transferred through the family without relying on modern training methods.

During our time at the Kaikado pop-up in Milan, we observed numerous historic pieces displayed alongside 150 specially numbered tin tea caddies, created for the anniversary. The event also included a mini workshop, allowing visitors to engage with the art of tea caddy making. The sounds you hear while working are crucial, Yagi explained. Even from afar, my father can discern the quality of my work by the sound it producesif its perfect, then the tea caddy is perfect.

One cannot overlook the philosophy embedded in Kaikados creations. Gushue described how the Japanese concepts of harmony and balance are central to their design. The lid of the tea caddy, for instance, descends smoothly, utilizing its own weight to create a vacuum sealthis is a testament to their craftsmanship, he said. He also highlighted the thoughtful design of the book, which features mirrored elements and a layout that embodies balance, with pages uniquely crafted to reflect the story of the caddies.

The book itself is a labor of love, featuring the hands of Yagi and his father, symbolizing the connection between generations. Looking ahead, Yagi expressed hope that his children will continue this legacy, celebrating the companys 200th anniversary in the future.

The book serves not only as a beautiful piece for Kaikado enthusiasts but also as an introduction for newcomers. As Gushue noted, It provides context; when someone gifts a Kaikado tea caddy, the book ensures they understand its rich history and significance. Thus, it connects the past and present, bridging the gap between generations of craftsmanship and appreciation for this exquisite art form.

Ultimately, the Kaikado book is more than just a collection of pages; it embodies 150 years of dedication, skill, and a unique philosophy that has been meticulously passed down through the hands of artisans over generations.