Lanterns have been mythical objects in Japanese decoration for over a millennium now. However, they are not limited to their decorative function. When they were imported from China in the Nara period (710-784) they had two very specific roles. The first was to light the paths leading to Buddhist temples, the second was to serve as an offering to Buddha himself. It was only later that they became popular throughout Japan, making them distinguished decorative objects found largely in private gardens or near Shinto temples.
What do Japanese lanterns represent today?
Japanese lanterns, often referred to as tōrō, are far from having become old-fashioned objects that fall into disrepair in abandoned gardens. On the contrary, they have become popular in a great many places such as parks and public gardens. It's still very common to see them around Buddhist and Shinto temples, as well as in the most distinguished of Japanese gardens.
Although their religious vocation towards Buddhism has moderated, they have not lost their ability to represent the five elements of Buddhist cosmology, namely fire (ka), water (sui), earth (chi), air (fū) and spirit (kū). Moreover, it has to be said that multiple forms of lantern have developed over the centuries, and this is most certainly a major factor in the cultural richness of these ornamental pieces.
Japanese lanterns have since been democratized in our Western countries and are generally used to bring a " zen " touch to a garden, but also to a home in the case of indoor lanterns. If a simple Japanese lantern can make all the difference between a rudimentary garden and one with real personality, it's above all because they emanate an aura of peace and harmony that has never been equalled. This is partly due to the historical background they've had, as we've just seen.
Indoor or outdoor lantern?
The two are certainly not intended to satisfy the same need. Whereas outdoor Japanese lanterns are objects designed to provide light, but above all to give a calm atmosphere, favoring spiritual practices such as meditation. Japanese-style indoor lanterns are much more modern pieces, featuring a wide variety of colors and patterns, in contrast to outdoor lanterns, which are mostly confined to stone and bronze structures. Indoor lanterns, on the other hand, generally appeal to a much wider public thanks to their wide range of styles.
So it's hard for you to choose. It's up to you to define where you want to bring Japanese culture into your home, and then make your choice as to which Japanese lantern will transform your living space into a true haven of peace.
