CeraFilter: Revolutionizing Coffee with Arita Ceramic Tech

The Cerafilter blends over 400 years of Arita ware craftsmanship with a fresh, modern perspective. Handcrafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations, it’s been reimagined as a product that fits seamlessly into today’s lifestyle.

In recent years, environmental issues have gained more attention, and even something as simple as coffee filters has come under scrutiny. With over 2.2 billion cups of coffee consumed daily worldwide, it’s estimated that more than 700 million disposable paper filters are thrown away every single day.

That’s where the Cerafilter comes in. Made with porous ceramic, it completely eliminates the need for paper filters. It not only brings out the full flavor of your coffee but can be used again and again—making it a truly sustainable choice.

This project introduces both the Cerafilter and a beautifully crafted Double-Wall Cup, combining the timeless elegance of Arita ware with real, everyday functionality.

We invite you to be part of this journey—help us take Arita ware in a bold new direction while honoring the legacy it’s built on.

Crafted from porous ceramic, the Cerafilter is a reusable filter designed to elevate your daily coffee experience. Its micro-pores filter out impurities from the water while allowing the flavorful oils—essential to a rich, full-bodied brew—to pass through. These oils are often absorbed by paper filters, but with the Cerafilter, they stay in your cup, letting you enjoy coffee in its purest form.

Unlike disposable paper filters, the Cerafilter can be used again and again. By simply boiling or baking it clean, you can keep using it for years. It’s an innovative solution for those who want to reduce waste without giving up great coffee.

Made using techniques passed down for over 400 years in the tradition of Arita-yaki porcelain, the Cerafilter is unlike anything made from paper or cloth. Every detail—from pore size and thickness to shape and filtering speed—has been carefully tuned to preserve the coffee’s natural qualities: sweetness, bitterness, acidity, and even its body. The result is a well-balanced, deeply satisfying cup every time.

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The Cerafilter isn’t just for coffee—it can also be used to filter tea or even decant wine. As water passes through the ceramic, chlorine is naturally reduced and the structure of the water is refined, resulting in a smoother, softer mouthfeel. This subtle transformation brings out the best in whatever you’re drinking, enhancing the aroma and flavor in a way that’s both noticeable and refined.

This unique dripper draws inspiration from the ancient Japanese myth of the “Moon Rabbit”—a gentle tale passed down for generations. In the story, a rabbit lives on the moon, quietly pounding mochi. We’ve expressed this charming image through the time-honored techniques of Arita ware, with over 400 years of ceramic tradition behind it.

The moon motif features a traditional Japanese pattern called Seigaiha, or “blue ocean waves.” Though it originated in ancient Europe, the design traveled through the Silk Road, reaching Japan during the Asuka period. Over time, it became deeply loved as a symbol of peace and harmony, and today it represents healing and serenity across the world—an ideal expression for the moon.

The rabbit motif is rendered in a pattern known as Hanabishi Kikkō, a fusion of two powerful traditional symbols. Kikkō, the hexagonal turtle shell pattern, has been revered in Japan as a symbol of longevity since ancient times. It’s often seen in family crests and sacred designs. Layered over this is the elegant Hanabishi floral motif, often used in weddings to symbolize vitality, prosperity, and enduring lineage.

And then there’s the playful nod to the classic Japanese folktale of “The Tortoise and the Hare.” In the original, the overconfident rabbit loses the race—but the rabbit in our design is different. Set within the turtle-shell pattern, it represents a rabbit with vision and purpose—one who sees the finish line: brewing a perfect cup of coffee.

A Double-Walled Cup, Reimagined in Arita Ware

This cup features a double-wall structure that enhances both heat and cold retention, all while being crafted from traditional Arita porcelain. Unlike glass double-wall cups, which you may have seen before, this version adds a uniquely Japanese texture and warmth that only ceramic can bring.

The design keeps the outer surface cool to the touch and helps prevent condensation, making your drinking experience more comfortable. The cup also has a satisfying weight—one of those subtle pleasures unique to pottery—and it feels just right in the hand.

Even the rim has been carefully designed to heighten your coffee experience, helping to bring out the aroma with every sip.

This generously sized mug—with a 500cc capacity and a large, easy-to-hold handle—was created for comfort and everyday use. Its wide bowl shape allows the liquid to gently move inside the cup, softening the flavor and creating a smoother, more rounded taste.

It’s especially well-suited for rich, full-bodied drinks, allowing the aroma to rise naturally so you can enjoy every note with each sip.

Arita ware holds the distinction of being Japan’s very first porcelain. Its origins date back to the early 17th century, when a Korean potter named Yi Sam-pyeong (Japanese: Ri Sanpei) discovered kaolin—a type of clay essential for making porcelain—in the mountains of Izumiyama in Arita, Saga Prefecture.

This discovery made it possible to produce porcelain domestically, marking the beginning of what would become one of Japan’s most iconic ceramic traditions.

During the Edo period, Arita ware flourished under the protection of the Nabeshima clan. Techniques were refined to a high level of artistry, giving rise to several distinct styles such as Nabeshima-yaki, Kakiemon, and Ko-Imari. Among them, the Kakiemon style—with its vivid red and delicate overglaze painting—was especially praised overseas.

By the 18th century, Arita ware began to be exported to Europe, where it greatly influenced Western porcelain traditions, including Meissen and Sèvres. It was during this time that the name “IMARI” became internationally known, establishing Arita ware as a prized example of Japanese craftsmanship on the global stage.

Traditional Aritaware

My name is Mikawa, and I was born and raised in the town of Arita—surrounded by pottery from the time I was a child. After finishing school, I followed in my parents’ footsteps and worked in sales for a local trading company specializing in Arita ware.

But about 20 years ago, my father’s company went bankrupt, and I stepped away from ceramics entirely for a while. I spent the next three years working in a completely different industry. Still, no matter how far I tried to distance myself, my love for pottery—something I’d grown up with—never really went away. Eventually, I made the decision to return to Arita.

Takashi Mikawa, CEO of Three Rivers inc.

Historically, Arita ware developed mainly as fine art or tableware for upscale restaurants and ryokan (traditional inns). But times have changed. As demand for luxury ceramics declined, so too did the production of high-end Arita ware.

It was in the midst of searching for a new kind of craftsmanship—something that could carry forward 400 years of tradition while also adapting to the modern world—that I came across the idea of a ceramic coffee filter.

In Arita, porous ceramic has long been used in water purifiers and industrial components. One day, I had a thought—what if we applied this same material to coffee? That simple idea—just wanting people to enjoy better-tasting coffee—was the starting point for what would become the Cerafilter.

Unlike paper filters, which absorb the oils that give coffee its richness, ceramic filters let those flavorful oils pass through. That’s what makes the taste so different. We set out to design a filter that could fully bring out the original character of the beans.

With my training at the Saga Prefecture Ceramic Technology Center and the support of testing specialists, I spent three years developing the filter—adjusting the size of the micro-pores, refining the shape and thickness, and repeatedly testing the extraction speed to get everything just right.

At first, we had almost no equipment or funding. We made each piece by hand. I remember using a car jack to press molds in my vehicle—doing whatever it took to keep going. We could only make 20–30 filters a day, and it was tough enough that I ended up with tendonitis. But after countless adjustments, we finally arrived at the production method we use today.

Now, the Cerafilter is made using a press-molding technique. This allows for more consistent shaping with minimal water use—producing filters with reliably high quality and a beautiful, even texture.

The moment I felt a real sense of possibility for the Cerafilter came during a live sales demo at Kuromon Market in Osaka. Honestly, I didn’t think it would sell easily. But to my surprise, it was a big hit—especially among international visitors. We sold filters every day, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. That experience opened my eyes to the potential of bringing this product to a global audience.

Looking ahead, my goal is to develop more functional, practical products using Arita’s traditional techniques and introduce them to markets beyond Japan. By combining innovation with centuries-old craftsmanship, I believe we can create items that not only preserve tradition, but also fit into the rhythm of modern life.

Through the Cerafilter, I hope to expand what Arita ware can be—and to help people around the world enjoy better coffee, every single day.

As part of this project, we have introduced two exciting additions to our existing product line. First, the Seihakuji (Blue and White Porcelain) color enriches the aesthetic range of our Arita ware lineup, combining traditional craftsmanship with a modern, refined look.

Second, the Getto (Moon Rabbit) round dripper now comes in a fresh “white” color as well as a Kickstarter-exclusive edition. This special color not only complements the existing design but also offers a sense of exclusivity that can only be experienced through this campaign.

These enhancements are not only visually appealing but also functional, providing backers with more variety to suit their personal preferences and styles. By expanding the line-up, we’re giving our supporters more reasons to enjoy the beauty and utility of Arita ware.

The Cerafilter offers a coffee experience that’s not only rich in flavor, but also kind to the planet. By eliminating the need for disposable paper filters, it helps reduce waste—something that continues to grow with the billions of paper filters thrown away each year.

Because the Cerafilter is reusable, it supports a more sustainable way to enjoy coffee every day. Its porous ceramic design also brings out the natural oils and depth of flavor in each brew—offering coffee lovers around the world a more thoughtful, refined alternative.

Traditionally, Arita ware has been seen as decorative art or used in high-end hospitality settings. That’s part of its beauty—but it also meant that many people rarely encountered it in everyday life. With the Cerafilter, we’re changing that. It’s something you can use every morning, a quiet piece of craftsmanship woven into your daily ritual.

Through this crowdfunding campaign, we hope to share this innovation globally and build a new kind of coffee culture—one that values sustainability, tradition, and small moments of joy.

The Cerafilter could never have come to life without the support and collaboration of so many people. While we carry on the long-standing traditions of Arita ware, we’re also walking a new path—one that’s only possible thanks to a team of people who believe in the same vision.

To us, crowdfunding is more than just raising money. It’s about connecting with people who resonate with our mission. It’s about finding those who want to help shape the future together.

One of those people is Mr. Ichikawa. With over 40 years of experience in ceramics, he had spent much of his career working with Arita ware for fine dining establishments. But when he turned 60, he felt a desire to take on something new. After hearing about the Cerafilter, he joined our team.

Mr.Ichikawa

Arita ware has long been known for its decorative elegance—but when Ichikawa saw the functional potential of the Cerafilter, it sparked something in him.

“This is different from the Arita ware I’ve known. It focuses on function—and it's something that can thrive in the global market. Being part of this challenge is truly exciting.” — Ichikawa

Arita ware once enjoyed worldwide recognition. Over time, its presence has faded—but with innovative products like the Cerafilter, we believe we can reintroduce it to the world in a fresh, meaningful way.

Through this campaign, we’re looking for people who believe in this challenge—people who want to walk with us as we shape the next chapter of Global Arita. We’ll continue honoring tradition, while crafting new ideas that can bring the beauty of Arita ware into daily life, all over the world.

Double-Wall & Cerafilter Sets

Mug & Moon Rabbit Dripper Sets

Size Info

Prepare your cup.
If you're using the Moon Rabbit Dripper, place it on top of the cup. Pre-warming the cup with hot water will enhance the flavor of your coffee.

Set the Cerafilter.
Be sure to check the angle of the filter—it may tilt slightly, so adjust accordingly.

Grind your coffee.
We recommend a coarse or medium grind. Use approximately 15g of coffee per serving.

Bloom and pour.
Pour just enough hot water to saturate all the grounds and let it sit for about 20 seconds to allow the coffee to "bloom." Then, pour the remaining hot water slowly in 5 to 6 stages, adjusting the flow to your preference.

⚠️ Caution: The filter will be hot after use. Please handle with care to avoid burns.

The height can be adjusted to fit the size of the cup.

With proper care, your Cerafilter can be used almost indefinitely.

After each use, coffee grounds and oils can start to clog the micro-pores. While a simple rinse with water is usually fine, we recommend a hot water soak (bain-marie) for deeper cleaning.

⚠️ Avoid using detergents or soap.
⚠️ Do not use a dishwasher.

Cleaning Steps
01. Discard used grounds
Turn the filter upside down and tap gently to remove the coffee grounds. Grounds become harder to remove once dry, so it’s best to do this right away.

02. Rinse with water
Rinse thoroughly to remove any leftover coffee particles. Do not use scrubbing pads or metal brushes, as they can damage the ceramic surface.

03. Hot water soak
Place the filter in hot water to dissolve oils. Once the water runs clear, the cleaning is done. Let the filter air-dry completely before storing to prevent mold or odors.

Over time, the Cerafilter's micro-pores can become clogged with oils, fine coffee grounds, or tea particles. To ensure long-term performance, we recommend occasional deep cleaning using one of the following methods:

Option 1: Boiling with Baking Soda (Stovetop or IH Heater)

Fill a pot with boiling water and add about 2 spoonfuls of food-grade baking soda. Submerge the filter and let it boil gently for 10 to 20 minutes. This helps dissolve built-up oils and residues.

Option 2: Oven or Toaster Method

Place the filter in an oven or toaster and bake it until the smoke (from burning off residues) disappears. Allow the filter to cool down completely before rinsing it thoroughly with hot or cold water.

⚠️ Caution: Always handle with care after heating to avoid burns.

Important Handling Notes

- This is a ceramic item and may break if dropped or hit.
- The Cerafilter does not allow for flavor or filtration adjustments.
- Avoid using the same filter across different beverage types (e.g., coffee, tea, sake), as flavors may transfer.
- Be sure to clean the filter thoroughly after each use to prevent clogging and odor buildup.

THREE RIVERS Inc

Founded in 2018 in Arita, Saga Prefecture, THREE RIVERS Inc. is dedicated to creating products that merge the 400-year heritage of Arita porcelain with modern lifestyles.

Among our most innovative creations is the Cerafilter, a patented product that applies our unique porous ceramic technology. While traditional Arita ware has often emphasized ornamental beauty and artistic value, THREE RIVERS is focused on balancing functionality with design—bringing ceramics into daily life in a practical, meaningful way.

We are actively expanding into both domestic and international markets as we continue to explore new possibilities for Arita ware. Our mission is not just to preserve tradition, but to craft a sustainable future for ceramic culture through innovation and thoughtful craftsmanship.