Japanese Garden Ornaments » Seido-Toro (Shrine Lanterns)

Japanese Seido-Toro (Shrine or Temple Lanterns) were first introduced into Japan during the Nara period (710-794) from China. The early lanterns were made from Bronze and primarily used for Buddhist worship. The native Shinto region soon adopted these lanterns for ceremonies that were often held at night, and were still in use for this purpose until the 16th century when their use became more ornamental than functional.

From the 16th century shrine lanterns were used to decorate temples and shrines. They were normally hung outside on the four corners of the buldings and used to illuminate entrances and prochways. Later with the refinement of the Japanese tea ceremony, hanging lanterns came into private use where they were hung under the eves of private dwellings. In Japan, large numbers of these lanterns may be seen hanging from the eves of temples.

There are two styles of lantern available. The Seido-Toro (Shrine Lantern) and the Cho-Toro (Hang Lantern).

Dankoi are pleased to be able to offer a large range of these lanterns. All of these lanterns are made in Japan and can be used to grace your home inside and out.

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