Sipping in Style: Exploring Japan’s Sake Cups

Sipping in Style: Exploring Japan’s Sake Cups

From Sake On Air by Sake On Air

March 20, 2026 · 51 min

About this episode

This episode explores the significance and variety of sake cups with expert Robert Yellin.

Shuki, or sake vessels, are more than just cups for serving sake. They add another layer of enjoyment to the drinking experience, and come in a remarkable variety of sizes, shapes, and materials. As you use them they come to have their own meaning and special value as well. In this episode of Sake on Air, Miho explores the fascinating world of sake cups with Japanese pottery expert Robert Yellin , from everyday drinking vessels to those used in special rituals. From his pottery gallery in Kyoto , Robert shares his expertise and experiences, revealing how ceramic sake vessels can transform a simple tasting into a more holistic experience. For more discussion about sake cups with Robert, you can also listen to our previous talk with Robert in 2020. As always, if you have questions or comments, please do share them with us at questions@sakeonair.com or send us a message on our Instagram , Facebook, or Substack ! We’ll be back very soon with plenty more Sake On Air. Until then, kampai ! Sake On Air is made possible with the generous support of the Japan Sake & Shochu Makers Association and is broadcast from the Japan Sake & Shochu Information Center in Tokyo . Sake on Air was…

People in this episode

Host: Miho

Guest: Robert Yellin

Topics covered

  • sake cups
  • Japanese pottery
  • drinking experience
  • ceramics
  • cultural rituals

Keywords

  • sake
  • cups
  • Japanese pottery
  • ceramics
  • drinking vessels
  • cultural significance
  • rituals

Sponsors

Japan Sake & Shochu Makers Association

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Potts K Productions, Export Japan

Places: Kyoto, Tokyo

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