FAQ

 

WHERE DOES MY ORDER SHIP FROM?
All international orders are dispatched from Japan via UPS. We utilize Yamato Transport for the initial domestic leg of the journey.

You can track your package's departure from Japan using your initial tracking number here. Once the parcel has cleared Japanese customs and transferred to UPS, your new UPS tracking number will be visible by clicking the “Detail” button on the tracking page.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR MY ORDER TO SHIP?
Items in stock within 1 to 3 business days. If you have any questions about your order please email us at contact@asemi.co.jp

DO YOU ACCEPT INTERNATIONAL ORDERS?
Yes, we ship worldwide with UPS or in some cases with DHL.
We ship DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid). This means your order may be subject to local taxes and duties. For an estimate of these costs, we recommend using an online 'Import Duty Calculator' or contacting your local customs office with the HS Code for Ceramics: 6912.00 or 6911.10 for porcelain.

WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?
We accept Paypal, the major credit cards Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover as well as Apple Pay. 

THE PRODUCT I WANT TO ORDER IS OUT OF STOCK.
Some of our items are limited to a certain number due to our artisans crafting everything by hand. The items can be sold out, but will certainly be stocked again. Follow us on our social media platforms or sign up to our newsletter to stay updated. If you have a question about a specific item feel free to contact us as contact@asemi.co.jp

CAN I FIND YOUR PRODUCTS LOCALLY?
We are working with retailers all over the world, please take a look at our stockists list. 

I HAVE A STORE AND WOULD LIKE TO STOCK YOUR PRODUCTS!
That's great to hear! Please contact us through our wholesale contact form.

WHAT IS YOUR ONLINE RETURN POLICY?
We allow returns for unopened items up 7 days upon receipt. We do not provide return labels for returned merchandise. We will credit your card upon receipt of product.

All items on sale are final sale.

ARE YOUR CERAMICS MICROWAVE / DISHWASHER SAFE?
Our Asemi Artisan ceramics are hand crafted and fired in a wood or gas fired kiln, we recommend not to put them in the microwave or dishwasher. 
Our Hasami Ware (except for the dark Bronze cups) is ok to be put in microwave & dishwasher.

MY CUP IS LEAKING!
How to "Season" Your New Japanese Ceramic Cup (Medome)

If you’ve purchased a handcrafted Japanese ceramic cup (especially stoneware or earthenware), you may notice the clay feels slightly porous. To protect your cup from staining and to ensure it remains leak-proof, we recommend a traditional "sealing" process called Medome.

Why do I need to do this?

Traditional Japanese pottery often has microscopic pores in the clay and glaze. Using a starch-based seal fills these tiny gaps, preventing tea tannins or oils from seeping into the clay, which can cause odors or mold over time.

What you will need:

  • A pot large enough to submerge your cup.

  • Rice Water: The starchy water left over from washing white rice (standard method).

  • Alternative: If you don’t have rice water, you can mix 1 tablespoon of potato starch (Katakuriko) or cornstarch into a pot of plain water.

1. Pre-wash

Gently rinse your new cup with plain water to remove any dust from the kiln or packaging.

2. Submerge

Place the cup in the pot and fill it with the rice water (or starch mixture) until the cup is completely submerged.

3. Simmer Gently

Place the pot on the stove over low heat. Bring it to a very gentle simmer.

Important: Do not let the water boil rapidly, as the agitation could cause the ceramic to knock against the pot and chip.

4. Simmer for 20 Minutes

Let the cup simmer in the starchy water for about 20 minutes. The starch will naturally penetrate the pores of the clay.

5. Let it Cool Naturally

Turn off the heat and leave the cup in the water until it has cooled down completely to room temperature. Sudden temperature changes (thermal shock) can crack ceramic, so patience is key!

6. Rinse and Dry

Remove the cup, rinse it with plain lukewarm water, and wipe it dry with a soft cloth.

The Final Step: Allow the cup to air dry upside down for at least 24 hours before its first use. Ensuring the interior is bone-dry is the best way to prevent mold.