From Then to Now: Celebrating Zojirushi’s Innovative Carafe Designs

Take a stroll down memory lane with us today, all the way back to where Zojirushi’s innovation in thermal carafes began. Thermal carafes—or “Pots” as they are affectionately known in Japan— weren’t just vessels for pouring drinks; they were statements of ingenuity and style that have left a lasting impression. Let’s peek into how these carafes have shaped our warm sips and cool refreshments through the years.

Three vintage carafes lined up in red, green, and white with a package box on the right.

The Clock Pot: Timing Your Brew to Perfection – 1983

Remember the Clock Pot? Launched in 1983, this industry-first carafe with a built-in digital clock was the talk of the town. Using integrated circuit technology (also known as the microchip), we saw the rise of digital clocks that were both durable and affordable and could be incorporated right into the thermal carafes. The Clock Pot had three display options in the digital clock: month/date, hour/minute, and seconds. This stylish carafe met the era’s love for digital with gusto. Available in red, green, and white, it was a chic addition to any space. This kind of clever thinking continues to inspire Zojirushi’s designs today—blending practicality with a touch of fun.

Vintage catalog page in Japanese with a large yellow carafe pouring into instant noodles
The Ramen Pot: Keeping It Hot – 1985

The Ramen Pot had unparalleled heat retention power among 1-liter carafes of its time. This allowed instant foods such as cup noodles to be enjoyed quickly and without hassle. Additionally, this carafe featured a vacuum glass liner, which provides premium heat retention to the carafe’s contents – and this technology is still utilized today in our carafes.

Back then, the ramen pot was lightweight and thus easy to carry. The body of the pot was made of resin, and it was 170g lighter than the standard 1-liter pots of the time. The stable flask-shaped form and pop coloring gave it a casual feel and a very fresh appearance.

Naturally, the heat quality, paired with its small footprint, made it convenient for use in public offices and for coffee. This pot became indispensable for students studying for entrance exams, professionals working late, and those working hard into the night.

In the pursuit of the highest heat retention, Zojirushi developed a new high-neck medium bottle with a smaller mouth and a much longer neck. It exhibited excellent heat retention that exceeded conventional 1-liter carafes in the 80s. Today, this same dedication to maintaining the temperature of your hot foods and chilling your cold drinks persists in our products.

Three carafes in red, blue, and white
The Elephant Pot: Small Pot, Big Personality – 1982

The “Elephant” Pot was a charmer in its day. Tailored for tabletop use at the time of its release, the mainstream air pot was this “elephant style” air pot with a low spout. In 1982, Zojirushi newly developed this popular 1-liter size with increased production in red, blue, and white options. Fast forward to now, and Zojirushi’s products continue to bring that personal touch to your daily routines, offering a variety of choices to fit your unique style.

Our Enduring Craftsmanship

Zojirushi’s commitment to quality has been unwavering. The robust stainless-steel carafes of yesteryears set the stage for the resilient and stylish products we create today. We’re still all about marrying durability with designs you’ll love showing off. Every Zojirushi product is a nod to our past, blending timeless innovation and current trends. Those funky carafes of the past? They’ve evolved into today’s sleek lineup, but the essence remains the same: to make your daily life a little easier and a lot more delightful.

As we reminisce about these iconic thermal carafes, we celebrate the inventive spirit that’s been part of Zojirushi’s DNA from the get-go. Whether it’s the first sip of coffee in the morning or a comforting cup of tea at night, our carafes have been there, and we’re excited to see where they’ll go next.

Got a vintage Zojirushi carafe or a story to share? We’d love to see it and hear it! Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, and let’s keep making memories, one cup at a time. #ZojirushiHistory

From the Zojirushi Vault: The Pelican Pot

Chrome carafe in the center of a black background with a white light in a diagonal line in the back
Hello Zo family! Are you ready to delve into a bit of history, infused with the charm of our vintage water pots? Let’s travel back to the late 1940s when Zojirushi introduced a marvel of innovation to Japanese dining tables: the Pelican Pot.

This wasn’t just any thermal carafe; it marked our foray into vacuum-insulated technology in the post-WWII era, offering a symbol of comfort and luxury with every pour. Join us in this nostalgic journey to when the Pelican Pot became an integral part of our heritage.

Meet the “Magic Jar”

Chrome carafe with a vintage cup on a marble surface in a kitchen

The “mahobin or vacuum flask, also known as the “magic jar” in Japan, is a key household item with its roots deeply embedded in Osaka. Osaka first domestically produced the mahobin around 1912, leveraging the region’s expertise in glass and lightbulb production, originating from European innovations.

These flasks were initially largely exported, particularly to Southeast Asia, because of the high demand from European colonists. This export boom led to the development of brand identity in Japan, with Zojirushi emerging as a notable player. Founded in 1918 by the Ishikawa brothers, Zojirushi began as a bottle workshop. It later evolved into a mahobin wholesaler, and introduced the iconic elephant mark as their trademark.

Luxury Turned Everyday Comfort with Insulated CarafesSomeone is pouring from the chrome carafe into small vintage cups

In post-war Japan, people considered vacuum bottles and insulated carafes a luxury. But Zojirushi, driven by Shigeyuki Ichikawa’s visionary approach, transitioned this luxury into a daily comfort. By 1948, our innovative tabletop pot, designed for the Western dining experience, found its place in countless homes. Known for its unique shape, we called it the “Pelican Pot.”

Top view of a chrome carafe has the upper lid open allowing to see the actual lid.

Its popularity soared, making it a bestseller by 1956. These products, along with the introduction of designs like the floral print flask, cemented Zojirushi’s position as a market leader. The company also ventured into other product lines, notably transitioning to stainless steel vacuum flasks and developing the cook-and-keep-warm rice cooker, marking its evolution into a comprehensive manufacturer of everyday goods. This was a testament to our commitment to blending practicality with luxury, using materials like stainless steel for durability and quality.

Celebrating Our Roots: From Glass Lined Pots to Thermal Carafes

Jumping ahead to 1988, our 70th anniversary, we celebrated by reviving the iconic Pelican Pot, integrating a touch of history into modern dining experiences. Those interested in our legacy can visit our headquarters in Osaka, Japan. Here, you’ll discover a range of innovations, from glass-lined pots that preserve flavor to advanced thermal carafes. We even showcase the Mahobin, the water bottle that supported an Olympic victory – a testament to our technological advancements.

Zojirushi Today

Pelican pot on a kitchen counter with a plan to the right and wooden kitchen utensils and two vintage cups with a flower design on the left.

Since the days of the “Pelican Pot”, Zojirushi has continued to innovate, leveraging its vacuum technology in various fields, including space exploration and sports. The company’s mahobin technology has been adapted for extreme conditions, such as withstanding high speeds in space and maintaining temperature for Olympic athletes.

In fact, in 2004, Zojirushi’s stainless-steel bottle was used by the long-distance runner Mizuki Noguchi, during the race she took home gold. Carrying the drinking water that hydrated her during her run, this bottle was a work of craft that kept the liquid temperature at 10° C (50° F). The bottle committed to its job perfectly, enough for Noguchi herself to say, “This bottle saved me.”

These advancements not only demonstrate Zojirushi’s commitment to innovation but also underscore the global impact and versatility of the mahobin, as it continues to be a beloved and essential item in households and industries worldwide. The technology has evolved into today’s coffee pots, water boilers, kettles, and glass lined vacuum carafes.

Do you have cherished memories of the Pelican Pot during family gatherings? Or stories of how Zojirushi’s range, from the traditional water pot to the modern stainless-steel pot, has been a part of your life’s moments?

Share these memories with us by tagging Zojirushi on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. Your stories are not just cherished but are a vital part of our history too. #Zojirushi #ZoFan

Beat the Heat with Cold Drinks on Demand: Discover Zojirushi’s Lineup of Thermal Carafes

Happy July, Zo fans! As the temperatures continue to crank up, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as an ice-cold beverage to beat the summer heat. Enter Zojirushi’s lineup of sleek and functional Thermal Carafes, which keep your drinks perfectly chilled for hours on end. In this blog post, we will dive into what makes our advanced vacuum insulation technology so unique, explore the different thermal carafe models in our lineup, and show you how to elevate your beverage game with some delicious iced. 

Superior Vacuum Insulation Technology

Black background with line up of thermal carafes of various models on the bottom of the frame.

What truly sets Zojirushi’s thermal carafes apart is our advanced vacuum insulation technology. It’s how we first got our start in 1918! By creating a vacuum between the inner and outer layers of the carafe, heat transfer is significantly reduced, ensuring that cold beverages remain chilled or hot beverages stay hot for hours – without compromising their taste or quality. The double-walled construction provides excellent insulation, keeping drinks cold and refreshing even in scorching summer temperatures.

Meet the Thermal Carafes

All of Zojirushi’s thermal carafes are designed with our advanced vacuum insulation technology, wide-mouth openings to simplify filling and cleaning, and sturdy handles that make serving a breeze. Explore our entire lineup here.

Premium Thermal Carafe

Two stainless steel carafes with black lids, one smaller on the left and a larger one on the right.

The Premium Thermal Carafe AFFB-10S/19S is a classic model designed to cater to your beverage serving needs with style and functionality. It is available in capacities ranging from 1.0 liters to 1.9 liters with a sleek stainless steel exterior and high quality vacuum glass liner for excellent heat retention.

Stainless Steel Vacuum Carafe

Line up of 6 carafes in navy blue, black, and gold. All colors are displayed in two different sizes.

The Stainless Steel Vacuum Carafe SH-HC10/15 combines contemporary design with exceptional heat retention capabilities with its unbreakable all stainless steel construction. Its convenient pinch-release stopper makes removing the stopper easy when filling or getting ready to clean. Available in 1.0-liter and 1.5-liter, the stainless steel exterior enhances durability while adding a sleek and modern look to your tabletop.

Glass Vacuum Carafe

Carafe in black with a sleek and modern look

Zojirushi’s Glass Vacuum Carafes AH-FAE10 are available in 1.0-liter capacity and feature a high-quality medical-grade borosilicate glass vacuum liner that provides superior heat retention and repels odors and stains.

Drink Recipe Ideas

Fresh Fruit Tea

Two cup of tea with kiwi and strawberry slices with strawberries, kiwi, and an orange in the background. There is also a large pitcher with tea and fruits.

Enjoy the sweet aroma and festive colors of fruits! Try mango, grape, lemon, melon, or other berries to find your favorite combination. Pour over ice and serve in your thermal carafe.

Iced Green Tea

Two ice cold glasses filled with green tea and ice. On the side some Japanese desserts

Iced green tea is perfect for a hot summer day. Make sure to brew strongly, as thawed ice will weaken the flavor when served. Add honey for a refreshing twist.

Iced Orange Coffee

Two glasses of iced coffee with a splash of cream topped with an decorative orange slice and a straw. Two oranges in the background and a coffee maker on the left.

If there are chocolate-covered oranges, then why not coffee flavored with oranges? The hint of citrus lightens the coffee by adding a refreshing twist! Enjoy!

With Zojirushi’s thermal carafes, you can enjoy a summer filled with icy cold drinks that stay chilled for hours. What will you be putting in your thermal carafe? Share your comments and drink ideas with us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram! #Zojirushi #ZoFan
 
 

Our Favorite Warm Beverages for Cozy Days

At the beginning of November, the holiday season becomes more lively as the weather becomes more chilly. We like to enjoy these cold autumn days by cozying up on the couch and watching movies, having long talks with our loved ones, or just curling up with a great book. Our favorite accessories for these activities? A comfortable blanket and a warm beverage.

Our Favorite Warm Fall Beverages

  • Spiced Rooibos Tea: This caffeine-free herbal tea is rich in antioxidants and features an aromatic blend of ginger, cinnamon and orange. It’s rich in flavor and soothing to the soul.
  • British Tea: If you’re in the mood for a warm milk tea, try our British tea recipe! In England, milk is added to lower the temperature of the tea to drink sooner, but also to sweeten and add richness to the beverage. For those that want a more refreshing cup of tea, substitute for lemon and honey to deepen the flavor profile.
  • Oh So Soy Latte: If you’re looking for a dairy-substitute or a tea-alternative for your cozy evening – give this soy latte a try. Simply brew your favorite coffee or espresso and add in your milk-substitute, like soy milk!
  • Hot Indian Lassi: Instead of milk, try a warm yogurt-based drink. A lassi is commonly enjoyed in India and can be sweet or salty. This recipe is for a warm, sweet variation of a traditional lassi, made with Greek yogurt and cardamom.
  • Cold Buster Soothie: Feeling a little under the weather? Try our soothie, a beverage that aims to soothe the body and comfort your throat – and all you need is lemon, hot water and honey.

Share the Warmth

Image link: https://www.zojirushi.com/user/images/prod/267.3.jpg 

When we make larger batches of warm drinks for the whole family, we use the Zojirushi Glass Vacuum Carafe (AH-FAE10). The beautiful design of this product was inspired by Imono – traditional cast-iron products in the Japanese culture. Matte black accented with gold features an elegant contemporary spin to the classic aesthetic, making it a perfect addition for your home or office.

 

As it gets colder, we tend to all love reaching for a warm beverage for comfort. Thermal Carafes are great for keeping hot beverages at-the-ready, anywhere in your home. Its vacuum insulation provides superior heat retention, keeping your beverage hot on the inside, while the exterior stays cool to the touch. Just pour yourself a cup to enjoy a hot cuppa, anytime, anywhere.

A Closer Look

Have you ever looked inside your glass lined carafe or air pot and noticed a shimmer? It’s because between the 2 layers of glass, there is a silver plating. The plating helps reflect heat like a mirror, to improve heat retention. The high quality vacuum glass liner in all Zojirushi Glass Carafes provides excellent heat retention. Learn about different ways to prevent heat transfer here:

All Zojirushi vacuum glass liners are made in Japan, and use medical-grade borosilicate glass which not only provides superior heat retention, but also repels odors and stains! It’s also safe for food contact, and really easy to clean. If you’re interested in learning more about how glass liners are made, take a look at this fascinating video here: https://youtu.be/wvxX5DgoDxw

What’s your favorite autumn beverage? Are you planning on trying any of the recipes we shared today? Be sure to share your experience with us on social by tagging your photos on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram! #Zojirushi #ZoFan

Zojirushi’s New Stainless Steel Vacuum Carafe (SH-HB10/15)

shhbnew

We heard you!

We know you love the cute, colorful and very functional Zojirushi Stainless Steel Vacuum Carafe (SH-HA10), so we’re excited to tell you that we’re introducing the updated Stainless Steel Vacuum Carafe (SH-HB10/15) this month!

The new carafe is available in 1.0 liter (34 ounces) and 1.5 liter (51 ounces) sizes. It comes in two colors—Stainless and Copper—and has all of the great standout features that Zojirushi prides itself on: superior heat and cold retention, 2 ½ inch wide mouth compatible with many direct brewing attachments, unbreakable stainless steel construction inside and out, easy-to-remove pinch-release lid and one-touch pour for easy serving. Of course, the new Stainless Steel Vacuum Carafe is easy to clean, too!

shhbfeatures

So why do these features matter when you’re choosing a carafe?

Well, Wiscobob gave us this review on August 20, 2015 about how durable and easy it is to use:

“I was tired of breaking glass carafes so decided to give this a try. Combined with the RSVP Manual Drip Coffee Filter Cone it works perfectly. Easy to clean and robust. Keeps coffee warm (if not hot) for a good 12 hours or more. Heck, even after 24 hours it is still warm. And yes, I’ll pop a cup into the microwave to warm it up the next morning and it still seems fresh.”

Cory DeNuccio said, “This is so nice and attractive for coffee on the patio! Or upstairs! Awesome quality! Holds about four cups! Keeps coffee piping hot!!” on May 12, 2015.

And another Amazon Customer said “I’ve always been happy to make coffee with a simple Melitta cone drip system. But the glass carafe is easy to break. So I end up precariously perching a #4 cone atop random vessels. This carafe fulfills the promise “Accommodates most direct brewing attachments”. A nifty pinch-to-unlatch system makes it easy to remove the top. This reveals a wide & flat opening that easily supports a filter cone. The squat shape, rounded handle, & thumb latch make one-hand pouring a snap. What’s not to love?” on February 21, 2014.

You can use it for serving guests, keeping your own tea or coffee hot throughout the day at the office, for RV travel, or for keeping cool, fresh water near your bedside at night. It’s a great, versatile product, and we hope you enjoy the new one, inspired by everyday life, and available now!