The Divide Between Real and Replica - Visiting the Quarry
As you stroll through Japanese gardens or temple grounds, you’re likely to encounter traditional stone lanterns. Many appear to be made of stone—but appearances can be deceiving. There’s a fundamental difference between authentic granite lanterns and mass-produced concrete imitations.
True lanterns are carved from granite formed over tens of millions of years beneath the Earth’s surface. In contrast, low-cost lanterns seen on online marketplaces are often concrete, shaped in molds for mass production. While you’ll rarely find concrete lanterns in temples, they’re commonly spotted in imitation-style Japanese gardens—especially overseas—where they mimic tradition without the substance.
What is Granite? – The King of Stones Forged by Time
Granite is an intrusive igneous rock formed from magma that cools slowly deep within the Earth over millions of years. The term "granite" comes from the beautiful speckled appearance of minerals like quartz, feldspar, and mica that resemble a floral pattern.
This geological history gives granite:
- A dense, uniform grain (resistant to cracking)
- Natural variation in color and pattern (visually stunning)
- Exceptional hardness and durability (perfect for outdoor use)
Its low water absorption also makes it ideal in cold or coastal climates where lesser materials would deteriorate.
Not Just About Appearance – Granite vs. Concrete
Concrete, made from cement and gravel, is a vital building material. It’s cheap and easy to produce, but it lacks the beauty and longevity of natural stone.
| Feature | Granite | Concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Formation | Natural stone over tens of millions of years | Man-made with cement and aggregates |
| Compressive Strength | 130–250 MPa | 20–40 MPa |
| Durability | 100+ years outdoors | 30–50 years, prone to cracks |
| Water Absorption | Very low | Relatively high |
| Aesthetics | Natural patterns and rich texture | Flat and artificial appearance |
What Lanterns Require: Weight and Dignity
Japanese stone lanterns are not merely decorative. They were originally functional lighting devices used to cast shadows across gardens. In temples, they mark sacred boundaries and serve as guiding lights for deities.
Granite provides the necessary gravitas—both physically and spiritually—that concrete simply cannot replicate.
Granite Lanterns Begin with Selection
Even among premium granite, only select stones qualify for lanterns. Craftsmen meticulously inspect for:
- Fine cracks (which could split during carving)
- Irregular color or rough texture
- Grain direction and consistency
Beautiful, uniform granite becomes lanterns, statues, or grave markers. Stones with minor imperfections serve structural or foundational roles.
The Second Life of “Unchosen Stones”
Granite unsuitable for art is far from useless. Its superior strength and low absorption make it ideal for infrastructure where concrete fails:
- Harbor embankments
- Breakwater blocks
- Dam and bridge foundations
- Riverbed stabilization (sinking stones)
A quarry master once told us: “This granite is strong enough. It's just not suited for lanterns or statues due to color or texture. But it’s perfect for seawalls. Concrete wouldn't last.”
Modern Tools, Timeless Craftsmanship
Today’s artisans use machines like diamond cutters and pneumatic hammers to improve efficiency. But their eyes, hands, and instincts still guide the process. Traditional tools remain irreplaceable:
- Chisels and mallets
- Ink lines and straight edges
- Stone-smoothing by hand
The essence of the craft lies not in the tools—but in how they are wielded.
Conclusion – The Quiet Strength of the Genuine
Concrete lanterns are lightweight, mass-produced, and cheap. But authentic granite lanterns embody Japan’s natural heritage, craftsmanship, and spiritual depth.
- Formed by Earth over eons
- Refined by artisans’ eyes and hands
- Respected in garden culture for grace and permanence
Many traditional gardeners say, “Better to have nothing than to place a fake lantern.”
✅ True Japanese artisans never make concrete lanterns. They do not consider it to be real stone.
The Reason Behind the Real
Real granite lanterns are not just objects—they are living culture in solid form, enduring across generations and landscapes.
The photos shown here were taken in April 2025 when I visited the Oshima stone quarry in Oshima, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture.