Stone Lantern

Stone lanterns are a type of traditional East Asian lantern made of stone, wood, or metal. Originating in China, stone lanterns spread to Japan, Korea and Vietnam, though they are most commonly found in both China – extant in Buddhist temples and traditional Chinese gardens – and Japan. In Japan, tōrō were originally used only in Buddhist temples, where they lined and illuminated paths.

Lit lanterns were then considered an offering to Buddha.
Their use in Shinto shrines and also private homes started during the Heian period (794–1185).

Back to Garden Elements →

Source: Wikipedia · Image: Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

STUDIOZEN

Set up your practice space — mats, props, and a calm home studio.

Get new guides by emailOccasional emails. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

InformationAbout Contact Privacy Policy Terms of Service Disclaimer Affiliate Disclosure Cookie Policy

Every entry, image, and fact is drawn from Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons, used under public-domain and Creative Commons licenses. No content is AI-generated.