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Komasu Japanese Porcelain Mosaic

Komasu is a Japanese porcelain mosaic defined by Yōhen glaze variation at an exceptionally small scale.

Yōhen means “kiln transformation”. The colour, texture and surface character are created through the interaction of glaze, heat and firing atmosphere. They are not digitally printed or applied as a repeating pattern.

As the glaze develops in the kiln, colour gathers, blooms and shifts differently across every 15 mm tile. Each piece has its own composition, with changes in tone, glaze concentration and surface depth that cannot be precisely repeated.

A sample is 18 tiles

3,371 unique tiles per square metre

Each 310 × 310 mm sheet contains 324 individual tiles arranged in an 18 × 18 format. This is equivalent to 3,371 unique tiles per square metre.

From a distance, the individual pieces come together as a coherent architectural surface. Up close, the variation within every tile becomes visible.

Our macro photography reveals the material at a scale that is difficult to appreciate with the naked eye. Areas of concentrated colour, fine mineral detail and subtle glaze movement emerge across each tiny surface. Light responds differently to every piece, allowing the installation to change subtly throughout the day.

No two Komasu sheets are identical, and no two completed installations will produce exactly the same surface.

Colours and applications

The Komasu collection comprises 31 ordering options, ranging from quieter mineral tones to more expressive combinations of blue, green, bronze, violet and celadon.

Komasu can be specified for feature walls and residential, retail and hospitality projects. Please refer to the technical information on this page to confirm suitability for wet areas, exterior walls, pools, fireplaces and other specialist applications.

View the complete Komasu high-resolution image library

Learn more about Yōhen glaze

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Komasu unique?

Every 15 mm tile has an individually developed Yōhen glaze surface. One square metre contains 3,371 individual pieces, creating an architectural composition without digitally printed repetition.

What is Yōhen glaze?

Yōhen means “kiln transformation”. It describes variation created as glaze, heat, minerals and firing atmosphere interact inside the kiln. The resulting differences in colour, texture and depth form part of the material itself.

Read our complete guide to Yōhen glaze

Is Komasu digitally printed?

No. Komasu does not use a digitally printed or repeating surface pattern. Its colour and variation develop within the glaze during firing.

What size are the individual tiles?

Each individual porcelain tile measures approximately 15 × 15 mm. A sheet contains 324 tiles arranged in an 18 × 18 format and measures approximately 310 × 310 mm, including the joints.

Are any two Komasu sheets identical?

No. Every tile develops differently during firing, giving each sheet its own composition of colour and glaze variation. No two completed installations will be exactly alike.

Where is Komasu made?

Komasu is manufactured in Japan from glazed porcelain using specialist Japanese ceramic production and kiln-firing techniques.

How does Komasu look when installed?

From a distance, Komasu reads as a coherent architectural material. Viewed closely, the individuality of its small tiles becomes visible. Glaze concentration, mineral detail and tonal variation create depth and movement across the surface.

Where can Komasu be used?

Komasu is suitable for a wide range of architectural applications. These include interior and wet walls, exterior walls, pools and fireplaces. Always consult the technical information on this page to confirm suitability for the intended application.

Can I order a Komasu sample?

Samples must be ordered directly through the sample options on this product page.

Where can I access high-resolution images?

Detailed high-resolution photography of the complete collection is available through the Komasu image library. The library includes macro images that show the individual glaze variation within each tile.

Access the Komasu high-resolution image library

Specification

Specifying Japanese tiles requires a different approach to standard ceramic products.

Mittsu works closely with architects, interior designers and developers to support the specification of authentic Japanese tiles in architectural projects.

These tiles are produced by specialist manufacturers in Japan, often in regions such as Tajimi in Gifu Prefecture, part of the historic Mino ceramics area.

Many of these manufacturers are highly specialised and focused on the domestic market. Mittsu works directly with them and manages the complexity of sourcing, production and logistics.

Selecting tiles

Japanese tiles are selected for their glaze, texture and proportion rather than a fixed pattern.

The surface is created during firing in the kiln. Colour and variation are not printed onto the tile.

This produces natural differences in tone and glaze movement across each tile, creating a surface that behaves like a material once installed.

For this reason, Japanese tiles are often specified based on how they perform across a wall rather than how a single tile appears.

Samples

Most designers review physical samples before final selection.

Samples allow evaluation of colour variation, glaze movement, texture and reflectivity under real lighting conditions.

  • colour variation
  • glaze movement
  • surface texture
  • joint and proportion

Samples are ordered through the website using the sample links on each product page.

Professional project resources can also be accessed through the Specifier Resources page.

Technical information

Each product page includes key specification data required for project work.

  • tile dimensions
  • sheet size where applicable
  • thickness
  • material type
  • application suitability

CAD drawings are available for selected collections, with additional technical guidance provided where required.

Additional technical documents, CAD files and specification resources are available through the Mittsu Specifier Resources page.

Project advice

Mittsu supports architects and designers during the selection stage.

This typically includes guidance on layout, proportions, joint sizes and suitability for the intended application.

Early discussion often helps identify the most appropriate tiles before finalising the specification.

Budget and supply planning

Japanese tiles are produced in specialist kilns and positioned as a premium architectural material.

Aligning budget and design intent early in the project helps ensure the selected tile remains part of the final specification.

Tiles may be supplied from stock in the UK, Europe or UAE, directly from Japan, or produced to order.

Lead times vary depending on availability and production requirements, so early planning is recommended.

Procurement

Procurement is structured to suit the project.

Tiles can be invoiced to the architect, contractor or client, depending on how the project is organised.

Delivery can be arranged directly to site or through the project team.

Mittsu manages international logistics to ensure materials arrive safely and in sequence for installation.

Specification integrity

Kiln-fired Japanese tiles form part of the architectural design of a project.

Substituting alternative materials will change the visual outcome and compromise the intended design.

Japanese tiles should be specified early and considered as a material, not a finish.

Early coordination of samples, budget and lead time ensures the material remains consistent from concept through to installation.

Shipping

Mittsu operates a structured supply model based on local stock, Japanese stock and samples.

Each route is designed to balance availability, cost and lead time depending on the nature of the project.

Local stock

Local stock represents a smaller portion of the overall range but accounts for the majority of supply by volume.

  • Stock held in Dubai, Germany and the UK
  • Pallet delivery only to ensure safe transport
  • Dispatch typically same or next working day
  • Delivery usually within 3 to 10 days depending on location
  • Shipping costs shown clearly at checkout

For remote locations, it is advisable to confirm shipping options in advance.

Stock from Japan

Tiles sourced from Japan are supplied on a pre-order basis, with three main shipping routes.

Dedicated sea freight

  • Order shipped individually once ready
  • Typical delivery 6 to 14 weeks
  • Includes sea transit, customs and local handling

Shared sea freight

  • Orders consolidated into scheduled shipments
  • Typically four shipments per year
  • Delivery timeline similar once dispatched

Air freight

  • Direct delivery from Japan to site
  • Typical delivery around 2 weeks
  • Quoted per project

Lead times vary depending on production, volume and shipping conditions. Early planning is recommended.

Samples

Samples are stocked in the UK and Dubai, with selected ranges available from Germany.

  • Courier delivery typically 2 to 10 days
  • Ordered directly through product pages

See the Specifier Program for sample access.

Markets

Mittsu primarily supplies projects in the UK, UAE and Europe where local stock is held.

Projects in other regions can often be supported, typically on a minimum order basis of one pallet.

For these projects, supply is usually arranged on a CFR basis, with the client responsible for import clearance.

Certain markets are not currently supported.

Returns

Returns are accepted for local stock items only. Samples and Japan orders are non-returnable.

  • Return request within 14 days of delivery
  • Return within a further 14 days
  • Items must be unopened and undamaged
  • Pallet return required to avoid damage
  • Refund processed within 14 days of receipt

Due to shipping costs, it is recommended to confirm selections carefully before ordering.

Shipping is structured to ensure safe delivery of specialist materials while balancing cost, timing and project requirements.

For project-specific advice, please contact Mittsu Japanese Tiles.

Mittsu Japanese Tiles

Authentic Japanese ceramic tiles for architectural and interior design projects.

Mittsu specialises in tiles made in Japan, selected for their surface depth, natural glaze variation and architectural character.

Unlike mass-produced alternatives, these tiles are not defined by printed patterns. Their colour and texture are created during firing in the kiln, producing subtle variation across the surface once installed.

Choosing a tile

Japanese tiles are typically selected for their material quality rather than a fixed visual pattern.

Variation between tiles is part of the character. Across a wall, this creates depth and movement rather than repetition.

Collections can be explored online, but most projects benefit from reviewing physical samples before final selection.

Samples

Samples allow colour, glaze movement and surface texture to be evaluated under real lighting conditions.

They are ordered directly through product pages using the sample option for each tile.

For professional projects, the Specifier Program provides access to complimentary samples and technical resources.

Availability and supply

Tiles may be supplied from local stock in the UK, Europe or UAE, sourced from Japan, or produced to order depending on the collection and project requirements.

Lead times vary accordingly and should be considered during the design stage where tiles form part of the architectural concept.

Working with Mittsu

Mittsu works directly with architects, interior designers and private clients across residential, hospitality and commercial projects.

Each enquiry is handled with a focus on material selection, availability and suitability for the intended application.

Japanese tiles are specified as materials, not finishes.

Komasu Sample - Japanese Porcelain Wall Tile

Color:
SKU: CPT-LUM-01/sample
Sale price£3.00(£3.00/item)

Order samples with confidence

After your sample order, we’ll email you a credit for the cost of up to five regularly priced samples, to use towards your full tile order.

Confirm colour, texture and glaze before specifying.

A sample is an appropriate representation of the tile and colour selected. Larger tiles have a single tile as a sample, smaller tiles have multiple. Samples are sent attached to a card, with the tile detail.

18 in stock

Komasu Japanese Porcelain Mosaic

Komasu is a Japanese porcelain mosaic defined by Yōhen glaze variation at an exceptionally small scale.

Yōhen means “kiln transformation”. The colour, texture and surface character are created through the interaction of glaze, heat and firing atmosphere. They are not digitally printed or applied as a repeating pattern.

As the glaze develops in the kiln, colour gathers, blooms and shifts differently across every 15 mm tile. Each piece has its own composition, with changes in tone, glaze concentration and surface depth that cannot be precisely repeated.

A sample is 18 tiles

3,371 unique tiles per square metre

Each 310 × 310 mm sheet contains 324 individual tiles arranged in an 18 × 18 format. This is equivalent to 3,371 unique tiles per square metre.

From a distance, the individual pieces come together as a coherent architectural surface. Up close, the variation within every tile becomes visible.

Our macro photography reveals the material at a scale that is difficult to appreciate with the naked eye. Areas of concentrated colour, fine mineral detail and subtle glaze movement emerge across each tiny surface. Light responds differently to every piece, allowing the installation to change subtly throughout the day.

No two Komasu sheets are identical, and no two completed installations will produce exactly the same surface.

Colours and applications

The Komasu collection comprises 31 ordering options, ranging from quieter mineral tones to more expressive combinations of blue, green, bronze, violet and celadon.

Komasu can be specified for feature walls and residential, retail and hospitality projects. Please refer to the technical information on this page to confirm suitability for wet areas, exterior walls, pools, fireplaces and other specialist applications.

View the complete Komasu high-resolution image library

Learn more about Yōhen glaze

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Komasu unique?

Every 15 mm tile has an individually developed Yōhen glaze surface. One square metre contains 3,371 individual pieces, creating an architectural composition without digitally printed repetition.

What is Yōhen glaze?

Yōhen means “kiln transformation”. It describes variation created as glaze, heat, minerals and firing atmosphere interact inside the kiln. The resulting differences in colour, texture and depth form part of the material itself.

Read our complete guide to Yōhen glaze

Is Komasu digitally printed?

No. Komasu does not use a digitally printed or repeating surface pattern. Its colour and variation develop within the glaze during firing.

What size are the individual tiles?

Each individual porcelain tile measures approximately 15 × 15 mm. A sheet contains 324 tiles arranged in an 18 × 18 format and measures approximately 310 × 310 mm, including the joints.

Are any two Komasu sheets identical?

No. Every tile develops differently during firing, giving each sheet its own composition of colour and glaze variation. No two completed installations will be exactly alike.

Where is Komasu made?

Komasu is manufactured in Japan from glazed porcelain using specialist Japanese ceramic production and kiln-firing techniques.

How does Komasu look when installed?

From a distance, Komasu reads as a coherent architectural material. Viewed closely, the individuality of its small tiles becomes visible. Glaze concentration, mineral detail and tonal variation create depth and movement across the surface.

Where can Komasu be used?

Komasu is suitable for a wide range of architectural applications. These include interior and wet walls, exterior walls, pools and fireplaces. Always consult the technical information on this page to confirm suitability for the intended application.

Can I order a Komasu sample?

Samples must be ordered directly through the sample options on this product page.

Where can I access high-resolution images?

Detailed high-resolution photography of the complete collection is available through the Komasu image library. The library includes macro images that show the individual glaze variation within each tile.

Access the Komasu high-resolution image library

Specification

Specifying Japanese tiles requires a different approach to standard ceramic products.

Mittsu works closely with architects, interior designers and developers to support the specification of authentic Japanese tiles in architectural projects.

These tiles are produced by specialist manufacturers in Japan, often in regions such as Tajimi in Gifu Prefecture, part of the historic Mino ceramics area.

Many of these manufacturers are highly specialised and focused on the domestic market. Mittsu works directly with them and manages the complexity of sourcing, production and logistics.

Selecting tiles

Japanese tiles are selected for their glaze, texture and proportion rather than a fixed pattern.

The surface is created during firing in the kiln. Colour and variation are not printed onto the tile.

This produces natural differences in tone and glaze movement across each tile, creating a surface that behaves like a material once installed.

For this reason, Japanese tiles are often specified based on how they perform across a wall rather than how a single tile appears.

Samples

Most designers review physical samples before final selection.

Samples allow evaluation of colour variation, glaze movement, texture and reflectivity under real lighting conditions.

  • colour variation
  • glaze movement
  • surface texture
  • joint and proportion

Samples are ordered through the website using the sample links on each product page.

Professional project resources can also be accessed through the Specifier Resources page.

Technical information

Each product page includes key specification data required for project work.

  • tile dimensions
  • sheet size where applicable
  • thickness
  • material type
  • application suitability

CAD drawings are available for selected collections, with additional technical guidance provided where required.

Additional technical documents, CAD files and specification resources are available through the Mittsu Specifier Resources page.

Project advice

Mittsu supports architects and designers during the selection stage.

This typically includes guidance on layout, proportions, joint sizes and suitability for the intended application.

Early discussion often helps identify the most appropriate tiles before finalising the specification.

Budget and supply planning

Japanese tiles are produced in specialist kilns and positioned as a premium architectural material.

Aligning budget and design intent early in the project helps ensure the selected tile remains part of the final specification.

Tiles may be supplied from stock in the UK, Europe or UAE, directly from Japan, or produced to order.

Lead times vary depending on availability and production requirements, so early planning is recommended.

Procurement

Procurement is structured to suit the project.

Tiles can be invoiced to the architect, contractor or client, depending on how the project is organised.

Delivery can be arranged directly to site or through the project team.

Mittsu manages international logistics to ensure materials arrive safely and in sequence for installation.

Specification integrity

Kiln-fired Japanese tiles form part of the architectural design of a project.

Substituting alternative materials will change the visual outcome and compromise the intended design.

Japanese tiles should be specified early and considered as a material, not a finish.

Early coordination of samples, budget and lead time ensures the material remains consistent from concept through to installation.

Shipping

Mittsu operates a structured supply model based on local stock, Japanese stock and samples.

Each route is designed to balance availability, cost and lead time depending on the nature of the project.

Local stock

Local stock represents a smaller portion of the overall range but accounts for the majority of supply by volume.

  • Stock held in Dubai, Germany and the UK
  • Pallet delivery only to ensure safe transport
  • Dispatch typically same or next working day
  • Delivery usually within 3 to 10 days depending on location
  • Shipping costs shown clearly at checkout

For remote locations, it is advisable to confirm shipping options in advance.

Stock from Japan

Tiles sourced from Japan are supplied on a pre-order basis, with three main shipping routes.

Dedicated sea freight

  • Order shipped individually once ready
  • Typical delivery 6 to 14 weeks
  • Includes sea transit, customs and local handling

Shared sea freight

  • Orders consolidated into scheduled shipments
  • Typically four shipments per year
  • Delivery timeline similar once dispatched

Air freight

  • Direct delivery from Japan to site
  • Typical delivery around 2 weeks
  • Quoted per project

Lead times vary depending on production, volume and shipping conditions. Early planning is recommended.

Samples

Samples are stocked in the UK and Dubai, with selected ranges available from Germany.

  • Courier delivery typically 2 to 10 days
  • Ordered directly through product pages

See the Specifier Program for sample access.

Markets

Mittsu primarily supplies projects in the UK, UAE and Europe where local stock is held.

Projects in other regions can often be supported, typically on a minimum order basis of one pallet.

For these projects, supply is usually arranged on a CFR basis, with the client responsible for import clearance.

Certain markets are not currently supported.

Returns

Returns are accepted for local stock items only. Samples and Japan orders are non-returnable.

  • Return request within 14 days of delivery
  • Return within a further 14 days
  • Items must be unopened and undamaged
  • Pallet return required to avoid damage
  • Refund processed within 14 days of receipt

Due to shipping costs, it is recommended to confirm selections carefully before ordering.

Shipping is structured to ensure safe delivery of specialist materials while balancing cost, timing and project requirements.

For project-specific advice, please contact Mittsu Japanese Tiles.

Mittsu Japanese Tiles

Authentic Japanese ceramic tiles for architectural and interior design projects.

Mittsu specialises in tiles made in Japan, selected for their surface depth, natural glaze variation and architectural character.

Unlike mass-produced alternatives, these tiles are not defined by printed patterns. Their colour and texture are created during firing in the kiln, producing subtle variation across the surface once installed.

Choosing a tile

Japanese tiles are typically selected for their material quality rather than a fixed visual pattern.

Variation between tiles is part of the character. Across a wall, this creates depth and movement rather than repetition.

Collections can be explored online, but most projects benefit from reviewing physical samples before final selection.

Samples

Samples allow colour, glaze movement and surface texture to be evaluated under real lighting conditions.

They are ordered directly through product pages using the sample option for each tile.

For professional projects, the Specifier Program provides access to complimentary samples and technical resources.

Availability and supply

Tiles may be supplied from local stock in the UK, Europe or UAE, sourced from Japan, or produced to order depending on the collection and project requirements.

Lead times vary accordingly and should be considered during the design stage where tiles form part of the architectural concept.

Working with Mittsu

Mittsu works directly with architects, interior designers and private clients across residential, hospitality and commercial projects.

Each enquiry is handled with a focus on material selection, availability and suitability for the intended application.

Japanese tiles are specified as materials, not finishes.

Need advice before specifying this tile?

We can help with tile selection, specification, quantities and project requirements.