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About Us
Ishimo was founded around 300 years ago during the Edo period in Kitashirakawa, Kyoto, an area historically known for its stone production. The name “Ishimo” comes from “Moemon of Stone,” a title passed down through generations of shop owners. Drawing on stone materials from across Japan and traditional techniques, we have worked on numerous temple and shrine projects, as well as stone sculptures. Our portfolio includes stonework for iconic sites such as Kiyomizu Temple, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and Heian Jingu Shrine. We collaborate with master artisans from across the country to preserve and carry forward the beauty and legacy of Japanese stone craftsmanship.
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Japanese Stone Craftsmanship
Japanese stone craftsmanship developed from techniques introduced to Japan alongside the arrival of Buddhism, and evolved uniquely to reflect the country’s culture and natural stone resources. Rooted in the belief that stone is sacred, this art has been deeply connected to spiritual places like temples and shrines. Today, some sculptural works are officially recognized as traditional crafts, making this one of Japan’s proudest artisanal traditions. From our base in Kyoto, we aim to bring together and share the diverse stone carving cultures from all corners of Japan with the world.
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What We Offer
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Custom Made
We offer custom-made works tailored to your desired size and design. From lanterns and komainu (guardian lion-dogs) to stone Buddhas, we handle a wide range of stone sculptures. Our team includes certified traditional artisans who specialize in stone carvings. We work closely with clients and can provide original design proposals to bring your ideas to life, using a variety of stone types to create everything from traditional Japanese styles to modern designs.
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Visit Us
Our garden and showroom feature a variety of stone artworks on display.
To ensure a smooth visit, please contact us in advance.
Address:
208 Gochōme, Kamigyo-Ku, Kyoto-Shi, Kyoto 602-8043, Japan
Tel: +81-75-211-2711
Access:
2-Minute Walk From City Bus Stop Horikawa Marutamachi
10-Minute Walk From Kyoto Subway Marutamachi Or Nijo-jo-Mae
10-Minute Walk From Nijo-jo Castle, 12-Minute Walk From Kyoto Imperial Palace
If you’re ever in the area, come visit us!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q1. Do You Ship Internationally?
- Yes, we have shipped to countries including the USA, France, Spain, UK, Australia, Canada, and Germany. Contact us to confirm availability for your location.
- Q2. How much does shipping cost?
- Shipping costs depend on size, weight, and destination. We’re happy to provide a quote based on your desired product and location.
- Q3. What payment methods are available?
- Our store accepts payment by cash, credit card (VISA, MasterCard) and international bank transfer. Online payment options include Paypal, VISA, Mastercard, JCB, Alipay, UnionPay.