Yuichi Murakami
Bowls

A well-balanced shape that fits comfortably in the hand.
A beautiful and reliable vessel that harmonizes with any cuisine.

Even with many dishes, I naturally find myself reaching for certain ones often, and before I know it, I realize I'm always using these particular vessels. For me, these bowls are precisely that kind of item. Their shape fits perfectly in my hand, their transparent, pure color, their thinness and lightness that prevent fatigue when held, and the clean impression unique to porcelain. They are well-balanced and reliable vessels that harmonize with Japanese, Chinese, and ethnic cuisines alike.

These vessels, created by ceramist Yuichi Murakami in Toki City, Gifu Prefecture, are named "makai." "Makai" is an Okinawan word meaning "bowl," and comes in various sizes, from teacups to large donburi bowls, used daily for rice, miso soup, and noodle dishes. It is one of the foundational vessels for Mr. Murakami, who embarked on his pottery journey in Okinawa. The high functionality and excellent balance of "makai," which suits any dish, reflect a broadness and depth that seems to permeate all of Mr. Murakami's works.

The small size is perfect for white rice + α,
light donburi dishes, or zosui (rice porridge) as a hot pot finisher.
The medium size is ideal for noodle dishes such as udon, pho, and ramen.

At kikkake, we offer two sizes: small and medium. The small size is slightly larger than a typical rice bowl, perfect for "white rice + α" dishes like egg over rice, natto over rice, or dishes with white rice topped with mapo tofu. It's also versatile for light donburi, Chinese congee, small ramen to finish a hot pot, or dipping sauce for tsukemen. It's the kind of dish you'll want to have for every family member.
The medium size is perfectly suited for noodle dishes. It complements udon, pho, and soba beautifully. Eating instant ramen in this bowl makes the meal feel more substantial and satisfying.
From the side, it has a sleek, outward-flaring shape, with a gentle curve near the base. When holding it with both hands to drink soup, it fits naturally and feels stable. Additionally, the wide interior (the bottom part seen from the inside) means it has a surprisingly generous capacity. It's also suitable for hearty dishes like oyakodon, katsudon, and tempura udon.

Fresh and striking celadon, and
a muted, mellow, versatile off-white.

The glazes come in two types: a fresh celadon (seiji) and a soft off-white (beishoku). The celadon is a refreshing jade green, while the off-white is a pale, mellow ivory, both boasting a beautiful, clean luster.
While both colors enhance any dish, the transparent quality of the celadon is striking, pairing perfectly with white foods like rice or pho. It also beautifully highlights dark greens like watercress or cilantro, and brown side dishes such as meat or stews. The off-white, on the other hand, is incredibly versatile, softening strong or colorful dishes. We recommend getting both colors to enjoy their different charms.

Product Characteristics and Points to Note

• Please note that due to being handmade, each item may vary in size, shape, and color.
• Microwave and dishwasher safe.
• Not safe for oven or direct flame.