Looking for the perfect Japanese lantern to give your space a peaceful atmosphere?
I propose that you’ve found it!
My name is Chris, and I cofounded this shop Shi-Zen with my wife Misaki.
We’re based near Kanagawa, Japan, one of the hotspots of Zen in Japan and offer Japanese-made items that enhance one’s mindfulness practice.
I was looking for a lantern to give the room where I meditate a soft ambiance, and instantly fell in love with this one as soon as I saw it in person.
The color of the light bulb is very warm and the bulb is not too bright, which gives it a perfect glow not so different from a steady candle.
I love this lantern for 2 main reasons, which I’ll lay out here:
1. It is battery-powered and very light weight (despite its sturdy appearance).
This means that we can move it around our house freely, and it looks great anywhere, as there are no visible power cords
This also means that it can be used in any country, regardless of the shape or voltage of the power outlet
2. It has a striking design that is unique, but still looks fairly traditional.
The triangle shaped frame is something that you won’t find elsewhere and is a signature of designer Cho Daisaku who worked with long-standing Gifu Paper Lantern maker Asano Shoten to create this lantern design.
Despite being a unique designer piece, the lantern wouldn’t look out of place in a 100-year-old Japanese house. This is partly because it is handmade from traditional materials such as premium Mino Washi and wood
In our house, we are also very careful about avoiding bright overhead lights after sunset, so as not to disrupt our circadian rhythms.
This light can be placed on the floor or on a table or shelf and provides a perfect low, warm light that won’t hinder sleep later.
About the maker Asano Shoten
Founded in 1917, Asano Shoten has crafted Gifu lanterns in Gifu’s historic castle town, sourcing nearly all materials locally and adhering to traditional Edo-era techniques.
Today, Asano Shoten is a brand that preserves the legacy of the Gifu lantern while also collaborating with designers to create contemporary lighting that honors Japan’s enduring craftsmanship.
Free Shipping
We will ship this lantern for free from Japan to wherever you are!
