120-Bristle Matcha Whisk (Chasen) – 百二十本立 Bamboo Tool for Ultra-Fine Froth

Designed for precision and delicacy, this 120-bristle matcha whisk (chasen 百二十本立) delivers a superbly fine froth, making it ideal for preparing usucha, or thin matcha. With the highest bristle count among traditional chasen styles, it effortlessly whisks matcha and hot water into a light, creamy foam—offering an elegant texture with minimal effort.

Shaped from a single piece of natural bamboo, the ultra-fine bristles are intricately carved to create the chasen’s signature rounded bloom. This structure enables faster, more responsive whisking, making it a favourite among matcha enthusiasts who prioritise smooth consistency and visual refinement.

Traditionally associated with nobility, the 120-bristle chasen also carries symbolic meaning: its use reflects humility and a deep respect for the craft of tea. However, the higher bristle count comes with increased fragility, making it best suited for thoughtful, measured use rather than forceful whisking.

This whisk is machine-crafted, offering an accessible option for users seeking enhanced frothing capability at an approachable price point. For those looking to deepen their practice with a Japanese-made chasen, we also offer a Rikyu-style whisk made with lighter, aged bamboo.

Key Features:

• 120 handcrafted bristles for ultra-fine, stable matcha froth

• Ideal for ceremonial use and daily usucha preparation

• Made from a single piece of natural bamboo

• Dimensions: 5.5 × 2.2 × 11 cm / 2.2 × 0.9 × 4.3 in

• Includes protective plastic storage case

• Susceptible to cracking in dry conditions – store with care

Note: As this is a natural bamboo product, colour and grain may vary slightly from the photo.

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Directions

Wet the tip of the bamboo bristles with water before each use, prior to whisking.  It prevents breakage during whisking because water makes the bamboo bristles more flexible and strong.

The handle can also develop a thin hairline crack due to dry conditions.  It is not uncommon for bamboo to crack in dry conditions; this is simply a natural characteristic of bamboo.  Even if the handle develops a thin hairline crack, it should not affect the usability.  We recommend you continue to use the whisk as long as it is usable.

Bamboo bristle tips are strongly curled before use.  The tips will usually uncurl after the first or second use; this is quite normal and expected.

Tips for whisking

When you prepare Matcha, first, whisk slowly over the entire bottom inside of the Matcha Bowl, so that the Chasen bamboo bristle tips touch the bottom inside of the Matcha Bowl.  Then quickly whisk the upper half of the Matcha brew, moving the bamboo Chasen quickly like writing the letter "W."  This method creates a nice frothy lather and helps to improve the shelf life of the bamboo Chasen.

Whisk Guide

The "Number" represents the approximate number of prongs.  The more prongs, the more froth or foam it produces.  This, however is not an indication of better quality as some Japanese schools of tea ceremony frown upon froth.  Urasenke, the biggest school of tea ceremony, teaches that an even level of froth is desirable.  This has become standard among non-practitioners.

Shape:  The shape of this whisk is made according to Urasenke standards with the tips of the prongs curled inward.