
Zodiac Teacups Through Time and Tariffs
Theresa SasoEvery year brings a fresh batch of zodiac teacups that capture the spirit of the coming year in ceramic form. It's a tradition that has customers eagerly waiting, knowing that once these limited designs sell out, they won't return for another twelve years. But I worry about the future of this beloved ritual. These exquisite pieces come from a kiln in Japan that's been operating for hundreds of years. With potential tariffs affecting imports, I wonder if this cherished tradition might face obstacles. I hope these culturally significant pieces will continue finding their way to appreciative hands.
When I started working at the JANM store in the summer of 2021, I discovered the zodiac sushi style teacups that arrive fresh each year. Since the year of the Ox, I've watched four incredible designs come through our doors—Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, and now Snake.
This year's Snake cup design is particularly whimsical—an instant favorite of mine. The design features a popular bamboo folk toy snake, with red plum blossom decorations. The stamp at the base reads "The prospects for the Year of the Snake is great," while the kanji on the reverse wishes "Good luck for the Year of the Snake." At 4.5 inches high and both microwave and dishwasher safe, it perfectly embodies functional Japanese artistry.
I'm already excited about next year's Horse design. There's something magical about the anticipation, wondering how the artisans will capture each animal's essence in ceramic form. I'm particularly interested since it is my father's Japanese zodiac sign and I look forward to gifting him with the newly minted teacup when it arrives at the JANM Store.
In three years, it will be my own zodiac year—the Year of the Monkey in 2028! I'm crossing my fingers that the JANM store will still be carrying these treasures then. There's something delightfully fun about claiming the monkey as my zodiac sign. It automatically conjures images of mischief and playfulness, qualities I love to embrace when I'm not taking myself too seriously.
Working with these cups has taught me that the best traditions connect us to something larger than ourselves. Every customer who carefully selects their zodiac cup participates in a story that spans centuries. Here's to many more years of zodiac magic, one beautiful cup at a time.