Stone lanterns are widely admired in Japanese gardens for their special beauty and charm. There are various designs, such as tall pedestal lanterns and small portable lanterns, each serving a unique purpose.
In today`s blog, we will explore the different types and characteristics of stone lanterns to uncover their fascinating beauty.
Anatomy of Stone Lanterns
Stone lanterns consist of several parts: the orb (hōju), a decorative adornment; the top roof (kasa), the fire box (hibukuro), the middle platform (nakadai), the pole (kan), and the base (kiso). Depending on the type of lantern, some components may be omitted, and the pole may take the form of legs, showcasing the various designs and forms that lanterns can take.
Tall Lanterns（立灯篭）
Tall lanterns are the most common type of lantern. Unlike other lanterns, they feature a base, which allows them to be installed not only in gardens but also indoor. They come in a range of sizes, from about 4 shaku (approximately 120 cm) to even larger heights. These larger lanterns are ideal for spacious gardens and for those seeking a prominent decorative element.
■Kasuga Style (春日型)
■Sangatsudō Style (三月堂型)
■Yuzunoki Style (柚木型)
■Dōfū Style (道風型)
Yukimi Lantern (雪見灯篭)
The Yukimi lantern is characterized by its large top roof (kasa). There are several theories about its name, including the idea that it was designed with a large roof to allow people to enjoy the snow that accumulates on it, or that the shape of the kasa resembles snow-covered surfaces. This lantern is typically lower in height, making it ideal for illuminating water surfaces like ponds or for placement on garden stones. The round Yukimi style is particularly popular both in Japan and internationally, admired for its charming and picturesque look.
■Maruyukimi Style (丸雪見型)
■Kodai Rokkaku Yukimi Style (古代六角雪見型)
■Sennyūji Style (泉涌寺型)
■Rankei Style (蘭渓型)
■Kanshūji Style (勧修寺型)
Pedestal Lanterns (置灯篭)
Pedestal lanterns are small lanterns often placed on garden stones or other flat surfaces. They come in a variety of sizes, ranging from about 20 cm, which can be incorporated into interior decor, to larger options measuring 70 to 80 cm. Due to their relatively small size and lightweight components, many of these lanterns can be arranged with ease, making them versatile additions to both gardens and indoor spaces.
■Misaki Style (岬型)
■Tamate Style (玉手型)
■Sunshōan Style (寸松庵型)
■Sankō Style (三光型)
■Tengachaya Style (天下茶屋型)
Ikekomi Lanterns (活込み灯篭)
Ikikomi lanterns are designed to be directly implanted into the ground, allowing for a seamless integration with the landscape. They are typically placed at heights ranging from 15 cm to 30 cm, which can be adjusted to harmonize with the surrounding scenery. Composed of several components, including the orb (hōju), top roof (kasa), fire box (hibukuro), middle platform (nakadai), and pole (kan), these lanterns have a simple design due to the absence of a base. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic for their garden.
■Roji Style (露路型)
■Oribe Style (織部型)
■Shōkintō Style (松琴亭型)
■Mizuhotarū Style (水ほたる型)
Each lantern can add a unique and special charm to your garden. I hope the various types of stone lanterns introduced here provide inspiration for finding the perfect lantern to complement your garden or space.
At ISHIMO, we offer a diverse and wide selection of stone lanterns. We invite you to take a look at our online shop!