What Is Juzu? - Granite Prayer Beads from Japan
Origins: A Counting Tool for Devotion
Juzu, or Buddhist prayer beads, originated in ancient India as japamālā — a string used to count mantras and prayers. These beads spread with Buddhism through China and Korea before reaching Japan during the Nara to Heian periods.
Evolution in Japan: Variations by Buddhist Sect
| Sect | Typical Juzu Form |
|---|---|
| Jōdo (Pure Land) | Double-ringed with 108 main beads and one parent bead |
| Shingon | 108 beads strung in a single loop with long tassels |
| Nichiren | Round form with multiple tassels |
| Sōtō / Rinzai | Simple single-ring style, often used in Zen practice |
Structure: The Meaning Behind the Parts
| Part | Description |
|---|---|
| Main Beads | Usually 108, symbolizing earthly desires (bonnō) |
| Parent Bead | Larger bead symbolizing the Buddha |
| Heavenly Beads | Small beads next to the parent bead, linking the divine and the mortal |
| Tassel | Decorative knot to hide the string end, often symbolizing purification |
Materials: Tradition Meets Innovation
Traditional Juzu are crafted from woods like bodhi, ebony, or sandalwood, as well as gemstones like agate, crystal, amber, and ivory. Today, new materials such as glass, ceramics, and natural stone are used to express individuality and creativity.
Usage: From Ritual to Daily Reflection
Originally used in rituals — funerals, temple recitation, and graveside prayers — Juzu today are also appreciated as accessories, keepsakes, and mindfulness tools that bring calm and connection.
Differences Between Men's and Women's Juzu
| Aspect | Men's Juzu | Women's Juzu |
|---|---|---|
| Bead Size | Larger (10–16 mm) | Smaller (6–8 mm) |
| Color | Black, brown, navy | Purple, white, beige |
| Design | Thick tassel, minimal decoration | Delicate tassel, optional decorative beads |
| Weight | Heavy and solid feel | Light and elegant impression |
Our granite Juzu also follow this tradition — bold and powerful for men, refined and graceful for women. For modern lifestyles, we also offer compact bracelet-style Juzu that maintain traditional form while being suitable for everyday wear.
Conclusion: A Thread of Invisible Connection
Juzu are more than prayer tools. Each bead represents a prayer, a connection, a moment of mindfulness. Their circular form expresses unity, continuity, and the sacred rhythm of breath and thought. Even when not used, a Juzu silently radiates calm and presence.
Our Handmade Granite Juzu
Our Juzu are truly one-of-a-kind — handcrafted by Japanese stonemasons from solid granite, each bead carefully shaped by hand.
Granite is not a traditional material for Juzu, but in modern times it has been reinterpreted as a meaningful and enduring medium in Buddhist craftsmanship. Known for its durability and timeless beauty, granite resonates with those who value depth, stillness, and authenticity.
This natural stone originated over 60 million years ago from deep Earth magma, slowly crystallized and brought to the surface by tectonic uplift. Now, through the hands of artisans, it is reborn as a Juzu — a prayer you can hold.
These granite beads are not only visually striking, but also carry the silent weight of time. Their calm gray hues and finely polished surfaces evoke a serene presence, perfect for meditation, remembrance, or as a symbolic gift.
