This is a superior chasen. The craftsmanship reveals itself with the thin tines that are not to stiff and makes a consistent foam for usucha and wonderful thick koicha.

Beautiful well balanced whisk, works well to create foamy matcha

The quality of chasen varies widely. This one is both durable and well-proportioned, with a base that's narrower—and therefore easier to handle—than most. Some reviewers have commented on the fact that it is glued to the base of the box. This is standard for high-quality chasen. Don't worry about the glue; it's easily removed by dipping the base of the chasen in a little warm water and rubbing the glue/paper off.

Never going back to cheaper chasen.

So far it works well for my needs. I wish though that the packaging it came in was different because like what another reviewer said, the whisk was difficult to get out without damaging it.