Traditional Crafts

Yame Stone LanternsStone crafts

Yame stone lanterns are made using volcanic tuff which is produced in large quantities in this area. Because tuff is a light, soft and easily erodible rock, it is not particularly suitable for fine workmanship. However, it dose have the kinds of qualities that are best suited to garden lanterns, such as resilience against cold and heat and a tendency for moss to start growing on its surfaces early on. During the Edo period (17th - 19th centuries), there were many stonemasons working in this area who created structures such as bridges and this is why the production of stone lanterns also took off here.