A tea box (Chabako, Cha = tea / Bako = box) is a wooden box originating from the Meiji era. Originally used for exporting Japanese tea overseas, it was specifically designed to protect delicate tea leaves, effectively preventing odors, moisture, and pests. Besides tea, it is also suitable for storing food, clothing, photographic equipment, and other items sensitive to humidity and light. The box is sealed with Japanese food-grade wheat starch adhesive paper, maintaining the details of traditional craftsmanship.

The manufacturing process of a tea box

The tea box is made from 30-year-old Japanese cedar wood. The wood is first exposed to sun and rain outdoors for two months, then soaked in water, and then stacked layer by layer and weighed down with heavy stones to dry completely under pressure. This process strengthens the wood structure and effectively prevents future warping.

The box is lined with a metal insert to enhance moisture protection and sealing, and is precisely cut to the appropriate size using special scissors. Finally, washi tape is applied to the four sides and corners of the box to reinforce its overall durability.

Size:

Taller style: Approximately 22 × 16 × 16 cm

Low-cut style: Approximately 24 × 17 × 12 cm

Materials: Japanese cedar wood, galvanized steel sheet, paper, Japanese food-grade wheat starch (wheat bran)

Origin: Shizuoka, Japan

Notes:

Each tea box is handmade, and slight variations in wood grain, color, and size may occur. Some products may have minor wood grain marks or small dents, all of which have been inspected and confirmed by the manufacturer to not affect use. These are normal characteristics of the manufacturing process and do not constitute grounds for return or exchange.

【Maintenance Method】

Wooden parts:
Wipe with a dry cloth; avoid using cleaning agents.

Tin/galvanized iron lining:
You can wipe it with a damp cloth and then dry it.