A Wabi-Sabi Lantern

Feb 3, 2025

「EP.08」真壁石燈籠

MAKABE ISHIDORO
Ibaraki Prefecture

「transcript」

In the small town of Makabe, nestled in Ibaraki Prefecture, lies a 500-year-old tradition that has lit the paths of shrines, temples, and gardens across Japan—Makabe Ishidōrō, or stone lanterns made of Makabe-ishi, a type of granite revered for its durability and elegance.

The story of Makabe-ishi began in the late Muromachi period, with artisans creating stone artifacts like five-ring pagodas and ancient monuments. The granite from this area is known for its fine grain, which allows for precise carving and exceptional durability—perfect for structures designed to withstand the elements. By the Edo period, stone lanterns became popular in shrines and temples, with techniques continuously refined over time.

Master craftsman Kubota Kichibēi formalized the traditional methods of creating stone lanterns in the late Edo period, techniques that continue to be practiced today and give Makabe Ishidōrō its distinctive handmade charm. Using only chisels and hammers, artisans craft each lantern entirely by hand, employing 18 traditional techniques to complete the process. The result? A warm, almost soft roundness in every lantern, far from the cold, mechanical sharpness you might expect from granite.

Each curve, groove, and surface feels alive, carrying the spirit of the craftsman who shaped it, seamlessly blending with Japanese natural gardens to create a perfect harmony of elegance and tranquility. People often place these lanterns deliberately to allow moss to grow over time, enhancing their connection to the surrounding landscape and deepening their natural beauty.

Whether placed in a serene garden or an urban space, these stone lanterns invite a moment of calm, a subtle reminder of the craftsmanship and culture that shaped them.

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