Are You Mindful of the 'Temperature' of Your Tableware During the Coldest Time of Year?

Now that we're past the peak of winter, the cold has become its most severe. On mornings when it's a struggle to get out of bed, a steaming bowl of hot miso soup can feel like it's warming you from the inside out, soothing both body and soul.

In our last article, we explored the differences between pottery (made from clay) and porcelain (made from stone). This time, we're focusing on another essential star of the Japanese dining table: lacquerware.

Do you find yourself thinking, “Lacquerware is too fancy; I only use it for special occasions like New Year's or when guests are over,” or “It seems so hard to take care of”? Have you stashed your lacquerware away in the back of a cupboard because of these ideas?

The truth is, the worst thing you can do to your lacquerware is not use it. In this article, we'll debunk some common myths, uncover why lacquerware is a winter must-have, and guide you on how to choose the perfect piece without any regrets.

Why Don't Bowls at High-End Restaurants Feel 'Hot'?

Have you ever poured piping hot soup or rice into a ceramic or porcelain bowl, only to snatch your hand away with a yelp of “Ouch, that's hot!”?

With a lacquerware bowl, however, even when it's filled with freshly made soup, it feels just pleasantly warm to hold. Yet, when you take a sip, the contents are still perfectly hot. This is because its core materials, wood and urushi lacquer, are excellent insulators.

・ Gentle to the touch, while keeping the contents hot (think of it like a thermos).

・ A soft, pleasant feel on the lips, without the chilly shock you get from metal or ceramic.

This incredible functionality is the number one reason we recommend adding lacquerware to your dining table during the cold months of January and February.

Two Checkpoints for Identifying 'the Real Deal'

Just as we learned to distinguish ceramics by 'clay or stone,' lacquerware also has clear distinctions. You'll typically find these three main grades available for sale:

1. Synthetic Resin × Urethane Coating (Inexpensive, dishwasher-safe, basically plastic)

2. Natural Wood × Urethane Coating (Feels like wood, maintenance-free, does not age or develop a patina)

3. Natural Wood × Genuine Urushi Lacquer (hon-urushi) (Feels amazing, develops character with use, and is our top recommendation)

It can be tough to tell them apart at a glance, but the quality label on the bottom of the piece will tell you everything. If you're looking for authentic lacquerware, be sure to check these two things:

・ Base material: 'Natural wood'

・ Surface coating: 'Genuine lacquer coating'

If the surface coating is listed as 'urethane' or 'cashew coating,' it means a synthetic paint has been used to mimic the look and feel of lacquer. While these are convenient, if you want to experience the unique joy of 'nurturing' your lacquerware as it ages, make sure you choose an item labeled 'Genuine Lacquer' (hon-urushi).

Daily Use is the Ultimate Maintenance

The idea that “genuine lacquer is hard to care for” is a huge misconception. In fact, urushi lacquer loves a bit of moisture. Excessive dryness can cause it to crack, which means letting it sit unused and dry in the back of a cupboard is the worst thing for it.

Using it every day, letting it be moisturized by soups and other foods, then washing and wiping it dry—this cycle is the best 'skincare routine' for your lacquerware.

Just avoid these "three don'ts," and you'll find that lacquerware is actually more durable than ceramics and can last a lifetime.

1. Do not use in the microwave (the wood inside can burn or crack).

2. Do not use in a dishwasher (it can't handle the hot air and high-pressure water).

3. Do not soak for long periods (it will absorb water and swell).

All it takes is a gentle wash with a regular sponge and mild detergent, followed by a wipe with a soft cloth. The more you use it, the more translucent the lacquer becomes, gaining a deep luster and character that's completely different from when it was brand new. This beautiful aging process is part of its charm.

Embrace the Joy of Nurturing Your Tableware as Spring Approaches

The cold days may linger, but according to the calendar, spring is just around the corner. Why not welcome the new season by swapping out your everyday soup bowl for a piece of authentic lacquerware?

The soft, pleasant feel in your hands and the joy of watching it grow more beautiful with use will surely bring a touch of mindfulness and richness to your daily life.