History (Origins)

Valued for its excellent water resistance and beautiful appearance, the soft stone Ashinoishi (Ashino stone) was used during the Muromachi Period (1336–1573) in the construction of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.

Characteristics (Techniques and Materials)

Ashino stone is a soft andesite that is easy to cut and shape and boasts excellent durability, which is why it is used to make stone lanterns, Buddha statues, decorative objects, and so forth.

Contact Information

Nasu-machi Kogei Promotion Association (located in the Nasu Yuai no Mori Kogei Kaikan)
593-8, Takakuotsu, Nasu-machi Nasu-gun, Tochigi, 325-0303
TEL: +81-287-78-1185