The sobachoco has maintained its trapezoidal shape for 400 years, ever since its invention. It traces its origins to Hizen (present-day Saga and Nagasaki Prefectures), home to the port of Imari, from which Imari porcelain spread throughout Japan.
Contrary to its name, the sobachoco was never intended for soba. It was originally used as a small bowl to hold side dishes such as sashimi, salads, and shiokara preserve at celebrations and kaiseki meals. It wasn’t until the Edo period that soba become popular among the general public. People would often use their sobachoco to indulge in a quick aperitif called sobamae before filling it with dipping sauce for soba, a tradition that soon caught on across Japan. Huge numbers of designs were created, reflecting the trends and culture of the eras in which they were made.
Maruhiro fires its ceramics in the town of Hasami, Nagasaki, a cradle of porcelain manufacturing in Japan. They deliver a wide variety of sobachoco that utilize a rich history of techniques unique to the Hasami area. Culture and craftsmanship in every cup.

MARUHIRO is not having its own factory but unites many professionals for building products. Each brand of MARUHIRO has its own originality and shows their special world. Also the products of Hasami ware are built from the knowledge of many specialists. This makes their porcelains not only a perfect gift but also great for you at any occasion.