In ancient times, porcelain was collectively referred to as tea bowls, and thus porcelain rice bowls came to be called rice bowls. In addition to the Ohei, Nakahei, Gohhei, Kohhei, and Magohhei types for home use, there are also Taiichazuke and Mouriyu types for kappou (Japanese cooking) use.
Originally, rice bowls were used to serve rice, and tea bowls were used to serve powdered green tea, but in the days when there was no custom of tea ceremony, yunomi (teacup) bowls were probably used to drink hot water only.
