The gaiwan consists of three parts: A saucer, bowl, and lid, which fits just inside the top of the bowl. Tea leaves are put inside the bowl and hot water is added. As the leaves steep, the edge of the lid is used to stir the leaves around and mix the tea liquor into an evenly-flavored brew. The lid is then used to hold the leaves back as one drinks or pours the brew into another receptacle. If one is to re-steep the leaves, one third of the previous brew should be left behind, as the "root", to give the subsequent brew proper strength.

This particular gaiwan is made from clay and has a fun partially glazed, hand-painted fish and ocean design.