Fukui Black and Vermilion Masu Sake Cup (7-613-8)
A square masu sake cup, glossy black outside and vermilion red inside.
The masu is the square box cup of Japanese sake service. This one has a high-gloss black exterior and a vermilion interior, the classic pairing on lacquered tableware, so the sake sits against the red and the black frames it on the table.
Why Chefs Choose This
- Instantly reads as sake: the square masu shape tells a guest what is being poured before the bottle arrives.
- Black and vermilion: a glossy black body with a red interior, a colour pairing that sits with lacquered trays and bento boxes.
- Clean square profile: straight sides and a flat rim give a sharp, formal look on the counter.
- Reorderable by code: Fukui catalogue number 7-613-8, so a matching set can be topped up later.
How to Use
- Chilled sake: pour straight into the masu and drink from a corner.
- Overflow pour: stand a small glass inside and pour until the sake spills into the masu, the celebratory mokkiri style.
- Small plates: use it for pickles, nuts or a single serving of edamame on a sake-bar counter.
- Care: wash by hand and dry straight away to keep the gloss.
Masu began as the wooden box used to measure rice in Japan, and the same box became the cup for sake at festivals, weddings and openings. Pouring until it overflows is a gesture of generosity, and bars across Japan still serve sake this way.
Why drink from the corner of a masu?
A square rim pours cleanly only from a corner, so drinkers tip the masu from one point rather than the flat side. It is also the corner that meets the lips most comfortably.
| Type | Masu sake cup (枡) |
| Colour | Glossy black exterior, vermilion interior |
| Brand | Fukui, catalogue code 7-613-8 |
| Origin | Japan |
| Dimensions | To follow |
| Care | Hand wash recommended |
What is a masu?
A masu is a square box cup. It started as a rice measure and became the traditional vessel for sake at celebrations in Japan.
Can I serve warm sake in it?
It is best kept for chilled or room-temperature sake. For warm sake, pour into an ochoko cup instead.
How should I clean it?
We recommend washing it by hand in warm water and drying it straight away, which keeps the gloss finish looking its best.
SKU : T0313