Cast iron cookware
Cast Iron Cookware
Cast iron cookware occupies a unique position in the Japanese kitchen: it is simultaneously the most ancient and the most enduring choice for serious cooking. The tradition of Japanese ironware stretches back over four centuries, centred particularly in Iwate Prefecture in northern Japan, where the combination of mineral-rich local clay for molds and pure regional iron produces castings of exceptional quality. The pieces made today in Morioka and the surrounding area are direct descendants of that tradition, made using techniques that have changed remarkably little over time.
The properties that make cast iron so valued are well established. It holds heat longer than any other common cookware material, which means a pan stays at temperature even when cold ingredients are added, critical for achieving a proper sear on meat or maintaining the precise oil temperature needed for tempura. Once heated evenly, it cooks with exceptional consistency. And unlike non-stick coatings, which degrade over time, cast iron actually improves with use as it builds up a seasoning layer that becomes naturally non-stick and adds depth of flavour to everything cooked in it.
The collection here focuses on the two most respected producers of Japanese cast iron: Iwachu, established in 1902, and Oigen, established in 1852. Between them they cover every category of cast iron cookware, from the iconic tetsubin kettles and rice cookers to frying pans, takoyaki plates, Dutch ovens and trivets. Each piece is cast individually in a sand mold, which means there is a small degree of natural variation between items, a mark of authenticity rather than inconsistency.
Cast iron cookware purchased today will still be in use in your grandchildren's kitchen. That kind of longevity justifies the investment many times over.
Discover more in our subcategories:
Browse our Japanese knives to complete your cooking setup, or explore cutting boards for the perfect prep surface.
The beginner's guide to Japanese cast iron cookware, seasoning, cleaning and how to choose your first piece.
Showing 30 products
AVAILABILITY: In stock (-1 items)
The Iwachu Pancakes Frypan, cast iron pan with individual round moulds for making thick, fluffy Japanese-style hotcakes and dorayaki pancakes with consistent shape every time. In the Box 1 Japanese Cast Iron Multi-Hole Frying Pan Manufacturer Iwachu (Morioka, Japan) Overall...
AVAILABILITY: In stock (500 items)
The Iwachu Oval Dutch Oven is a premium Japanese cast iron casserole with an enamel interior. Retains heat superbly for slow-cooked stews, braises, and Japanese nimono. Includes 1 oval cast iron pot Dimensions 33.9 × 18.8 cm, 1.5L, 3.5kg Heat...
AVAILABILITY: In stock (500 items)
The Iwachu Oil Plate Grill is a flat cast iron griddle designed for grilling fish, vegetables, and meat, Japanese teppan style at home. Includes 1 cast iron oil plate Dimensions 35.5 × 25 × 2.5 cm (13.9 × 9.8 ×...
AVAILABILITY: In stock (0 items)
The Iwachu Coffee Set, Japanese cast iron coffee brewing set with dripper and server. Cast iron maintains a stable temperature for a slow, even extraction and a rich, full-bodied cup. Includes 1 cast iron coffee pot + 1 dripper Pot...
AVAILABILITY: In stock (500 items)
The Iwachu Bread Cooker is a cast iron pot designed for baking artisan-style bread on any hob or in the oven. The heavy lid traps steam to create a perfectly crusty loaf every time. Includes 1 cast iron pot +...
AVAILABILITY: In stock (10 items)
The Cast Iron Pot Tetsu, Japanese cast iron casserole with enamel interior for braising, slow-cooking, and making soups and stews with exceptional heat retention. Provenance Handcrafted in Japan 🇯🇵 Material Heavy-Duty Cast Iron (Resistant to warping & chipping) Size (Dimensions)...