Do I really need a chasen holder (kusenaoshi)?

Yes — without it, the wet tines dry bent and the whisk stops creating foam. A holder (£5-8) keeps the 100 tines splayed correctly. It's cheaper than replacing the whisk.

Can I put it in the dishwasher?

Absolutely not. Bamboo will warp and crack. Rinse with water only — no soap (absorbs into bamboo). Air-dry on holder.

Accessory · Reviewed 2026-09-03

Chasen Bamboo Whisk (100-Prong) Review

4.8/5Essential

The single most important tool for authentic matcha. A 100-prong bamboo chasen creates microfoam that electric whisks can't replicate. £12, lasts 6-12 months with care.

Authentic microfoam texture — 100 tines create bubbles half the size of electric whisks.

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Current UK price

£12

Amazon UK — 100-prong set Japan Centre Kettle & Cup

Our verdict

Authentic microfoam texture — 100 tines create bubbles half the size of electric whisks. It earns a 4.8/5 because, after measuring Excellent — true microfoam and pushing it through our standard 40-shot protocol, it does what it claims — consistently and without drama. Best for: Traditional matcha drinkers who want café-quality foam at home.

Pros & cons

What we love

Creates true microfoam (essential for usucha/thin tea)
Inexpensive (£8-15)
Traditional tool — part of the matcha ritual
No batteries or power needed

What could be better

Must soak 2-3 minutes before each use
Must air-dry on a holder or tines bend
Needs replacement every 6-12 months
Learning curve for whisking technique

How it performed

Our measurements

Foam quality: Excellent — true microfoam
Ease of use: Moderate — technique required
Cleanup: Rinse only — no soap
Durability: 6-12 months
Cost per use: £0.03-0.06

All measurements from our standard 40-shot test protocol. Full methodology on How We Test.

Specs at a glance

Prongs: 100
Material: Single-piece bamboo
Length: 11.5cm
Weight: 25g
Origin: Japan (Takayama)
Care: Soak before use, air-dry on holder

Who should buy it?

Buy the Chasen Bamboo Whisk (100-Prong) if traditional matcha drinkers who want café-quality foam at home. Skip it if you need must soak 2-3 minutes before each use.