ISHIMO’s mission is to convey Japan’s stone culture to people and connect it to the future. In our series, exploring the charm of stone, we introduce various domestic stones handled by ISHIMO. Through stone, take the opportunity to explore with Japan’s environment and culture and rediscover its beauty.
On today’s blog, we will be excavating Natsuyama Stone, uncovering its characteristics and raw beauty!
What is Natsuyama Stone?
Natsuyama Stone is a white granite that is used in stone sculpture, and particularly cherished in Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture, where it has a long-standing history. It is named after the Natsuyama district in Okazaki City, where it is excavated.
Easy to Carve
One of the dominating characteristics of Natsuyama Stone is its ease of carving. Compared to other granites, it is softer and more pliable, allowing for intricate sculptures. This makes it a popular choice in the Chubu region (Central Japan) for lanterns and stone Jizo statues. Additionally, Natsuyama Stone can be mined in large, elongated shapes, making it suitable for larger structures like torii gates and stone monuments.
Enhancing Gardens with Moss-Friendly Beauty
Natsuyama Stone has a high-water absorption capacity, which makes it conducive to moss growth. When used in garden lanterns or ornaments, the moss gradually covers them, harmonizing beautifully with the surrounding landscape. This naturalistic characteristic is one of the stone’s key attractions, making it a preferred choice when designing a garden.
Products Made from Natsuyama Stone
ISHIMO offers a variety of products made from Natsuyama Stone, including lanterns and ornaments. The Mizaki-style Kaku Komi Lantern is designed to resemble a lighthouse on a cape, with the light source positioned lower and often partially enclosed within a structure, creating a unique visual effect. Its natural moss-growing characteristic made it a perfect choice for use in the Katsura Imperial Villa, enhancing its serenity and beauty.
ISHIMO carefully selects only the most high-quality stone materials from domestic production areas, offering products crafted by traditional artisans and skilled stone masons who continue to practice age-old techniques. We invite you to take a look at our online shop!