Akira Kikuchi
Japan
Established in 1848 in Ôshû City, Iwate Prefecture JAPAN, Oitomi began as Hoshodo. Founder Oikawa Rigenta, a tea ceremony kettle craftsman for the Date clan, shaped Oitomi's 170-year legacy rooted in the tea ceremony. Iwate Prefecture's ironware, rooted in Morioka and Ôshû, gained "Nambu Ironware" status. We artisans strive to share the enduring charm of this legacy, passed through generations in our region. As artisans, we prioritize sustainable production to preserve iron's potential—a foundational resource for human civilization since Earth's beginning—for the well-being of future generations. Access Akira Kikuchi Newsroom
Featured Designs
Akira Kikuchi
Water Kettle Teapot
This small iron kettle inspired by 1980s design in modern lifestyle with small family, transforming the image of traditional Nambu ironware; this reproduced Swallow Pot has fixed handle drawing straight lines unlike the movable round handle of typical Tetsubin to give completely new impression with added usability. This product preserves anemia-alleviating function of Nambu ironware while preventing rust by the traditional Kamayaki technique. This smaller sized Tetsubin serves both as an iron kettle and a Kyusu teapot, overcoming the limitations of enameled Tesubin teapot in the market.
A' Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware and Cookware Design Award - Silver (2024) - Access Akira Kikuchi Water Kettle Teapot Press Kit