Usuharihai
うすはり盃
Definition
An ultra-thin (approximately 0.9mm) handblown glass sake cup made by the Shotoku Glass company in Tokyo. The extreme thinness eliminates the sensation of the rim, allowing sake to flow directly onto the palate.
Ausführlich
Usuharihai (sometimes romanized as Usuhari) have become the preferred vessel for premium sake tasting among many professionals and enthusiasts. The thin glass transmits temperature precisely to the lips, provides perfect clarity for evaluating color, and focuses attention on the sake itself rather than the vessel. The fragility of these glasses — they break if gripped too firmly — enforces a gentle, mindful drinking style. Shotoku Glass produces them in various sizes and shapes, including a tulip form that concentrates aromatics. Despite their Japanese origin, usuharihai are inspired by Venetian glassblowing traditions.