Understanding the Difference Between a Shin Chasen and an 80-Prong Chasen
When preparing matcha, the chasen (bamboo whisk) plays a far more important role than many people expect. While many chasen may look similar at first glance, differences in prong shape, thickness, and construction have a clear impact on durability, foam quality, and the overall tea experience.
One common question we receive is:
What is a Shin Chasen, and how does it differ from a standard 80-prong chasen?
What Is a Shin Chasen?
A Shin Chasen—sometimes referred to as shin no kazuhō—is characterized by prongs that gradually become thinner toward the tips. This gradual tapering gives the whisk a balanced combination of flexibility and strength.
Unlike some chasen whose tips are curled inward, a Shin Chasen has straight, uncurled tips, resulting in a clean, clear silhouette that is often preferred in formal tea practice.
Key characteristics of a Shin Chasen
- Prongs taper gradually toward the tip
- Tips are not curled
- Moderate to high prong count (often around 70 or more)
- Balanced flexibility and durability
- Favored in formal tea settings and mindful preparation
Because the prongs thin out slowly rather than abruptly, Shin Chasen tend to be more durable while still producing a fine, even foam.
What About an 80-Prong Chasen?
An 80-prong chasen is one of the most common types available today and is often recommended for beginners. Many of these whisks feature tips that curl inward, which helps create foam more easily, especially when whisking quickly.
To achieve this curled shape, however, the prongs are made suddenly thinner near the tips, which can make them more delicate over time.
Characteristics of an 80-prong chasen
- Around 80 prongs
- Tips often curled inward
- Produces foam quickly
- Forgiving and easy to use
- Slightly less durable with frequent use
This makes the 80-prong chasen a practical choice for daily matcha, especially when ease of use is the priority.
Use in Tea Practice
Shin Chasen with a standard prong count of around 70 are often used in formal tea settings and practice environments. Their clear shape makes it easier to distinguish utensils during certain temae, where visual clarity and order are important.
In some schools, they may also be used during practice as an alternative to darker bamboo whisks, offering a similar sense of form while remaining practical for repeated use.
Durability and Care
Although a chasen is considered a consumable tool, it is often said that with normal use and proper care, a bamboo whisk should last around six months.
To extend the life of your chasen:
- Rinse with warm water only
- Never use soap
- Let it air-dry completely
- Store upright or on a whisk holder
The gradual tapering of a Shin Chasen’s prongs makes it especially resilient when used mindfully.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose a Shin Chasen if you value:
- Durability and balance
- Fine, even foam
- A calm, intentional tea moment
- A tool aligned with formal tea aesthetics
Choose an 80-prong chasen if you prefer:
- Ease of use
- Quick foam
- A forgiving tool for daily matcha
Many matcha drinkers eventually use both, choosing the whisk that best suits the moment.
