Stone lanterns can be found at temples, shrines, and in Japanese gardens throughout Japan.
Their quiet, dignified presence blends naturally into the landscape, but they are actually the product of centuries of cultural and historical development.
In this article, we will explore the origins of stone lanterns and how they evolved into a uniquely Japanese art form.
“The History of Stone Lanterns: Brought with Buddhism and Refined in Japan” の続きを読む
Once you learn about sekibutsu, you may start thinking, “I’d like to see one in person.”
But when you actually try to look for them, many people wonder, “Where are they?”
In reality, sekibutsu are not found only in special or famous places.
They quietly stand in many locations close to everyday life.
Here are some common places where you can encounter sekibutsu, along with a few tips for finding them.
“Where Can You Find Sekibutsu? Places Where You Can Encounter Stone Buddhas in Everyday Life” の続きを読む
You may come across sekibutsu along roadsides, at shrines, or in temple grounds.
Even if you occasionally place your hands together in prayer, have you ever wondered, “What should I actually look at?”
Of course, it is perfectly fine to simply admire them as they are.
But by knowing a few basic points, the way you see sekibutsu can become much richer.
Here is a simple guide to appreciating sekibutsu for beginners.
In Japan, since ancient times, various customs of protection against misfortune have been passed down to ward off disasters and evil spirits, and to pray for the health and peaceful lives of families.
Protection against misfortune is about avoiding disaster and praying for peaceful days.
This wish has been embodied not only in amulets and talismans, but also in ornaments and decorations that protect homes and buildings.
Protective items placed at entrances, gates, roofs, and gardens embody the desire to ward off misfortunes from the outside and watch over important places.
This time, we will introduce “Komainu” (guardian lion-dogs), “Shoki” (demon-repelling deity), and “Kimon-yoke Kakuseki” (demon-warding corner stones) from the stone protective items handled by ISHIMO.
While learning about the meaning and origin of each, please find your favorite item to watch over your life.
“A Culture of Protection Against Misfortune for Daily Life” の続きを読む
昔から日本では、災いや邪気を遠ざけ、家族の健康や穏やかな暮らしを願うために、さまざまな厄除けの風習が受け継がれてきました。
厄除けとは、災いを避け、平穏な日々を願うためのものです。
お守りやお札だけでなく、家や建物を守るものとして、置物や飾りにもその願いが込められてきました。
玄関や門、屋根、庭などに置かれる守りの品には、外から入り込む災いを遠ざけ、大切な場所を見守ってほしいという想いが込められています。
今回は、ISHIMOで取り扱っている厄除けの石造品の中から「狛犬」「鍾馗」「鬼門除け角石」をご紹介します。
それぞれに込められた意味や由来を知りながら、暮らしを見守る存在として、お気に入りの一品を見つけてみてください。
In Japan, people have cherished a wide variety of auspicious objects since ancient times, expressing wishes for happiness, good health, and prosperity.
Auspicious objects are traditionally displayed as symbols of good fortune and happiness. Beyond their charming appearance, learning about the meanings and origins behind each one makes them even more special.
This time, we introduce four auspicious objects available at ISHIMO: the Daruma, Frog, Maneki-neko (Lucky Cat), and Seven Lucky Gods.
Discover the meanings and stories behind each one, and find a favorite piece to bring a little extra good fortune into your everyday life.
“Living with Auspicious Objects” の続きを読む
昔から日本では、幸せや健康、繁栄への願いを込めて、さまざまな縁起物が親しまれてきました。
縁起物とは、良い運気や幸せを願って飾られるもののこと。
見た目の愛らしさだけでなく、それぞれに込められた意味や由来を知ることで、より特別な存在になります。
今回は、ISHIMOで取り扱っている縁起物の中から「だるま」「カエル」「招き猫」「七福神」の4つをご紹介します。
それぞれに込められた意味や由来を知りながら、お気に入りの一品を見つけてみてください。
A Simple Guide to How Stone Buddhas Changed Through the Ages
How have Japan’s sekibutsu evolved over time?
The stone Buddhas we casually encounter along roadsides or at temples today have actually been passed down across many centuries, gradually changing in form, meaning, and role within society.
Here, we introduce the history of sekibutsu in Japan — from the arrival of Buddhism to the present day.
“The History of Sekibutsu” の続きを読む
Have you ever heard the word sekibutsu?
They are the stone Buddhas and deities you may casually encounter at shrines, temple grounds, or along roadsides.
Although we often pass by them without much thought, these figures have long been deeply connected to everyday life and spiritual belief in Japan.
This article offers a simple introduction to the world of sekibutsu.
“What Are Sekibutsu?Prayers Carved in Stone” の続きを読む
Jizo are often seen along roadsides and within temple grounds.
Many of them seem to wear a gentle, compassionate expression.
In particular, children and Jizo are believed to share a deep connection, and these statues have long been carefully enshrined within local communities.
This article offers a simple overview of the background behind that relationship.
