Saida Stoneworks

Saida Stoneworks

Founded in 1902 in Kameoka, Kyoto, Saida Stoneworks specializes in the processing and carving of stone for shrines, temples, and traditional Japanese gardens. Over the years, the workshop has created stone lanterns, torii gates, pagodas, and many other works that have become distinctive features of sacred sites and local landscapes.

Drawing on the refined sensibility and aesthetics of Kyoto culture, Saida Stoneworks creates stone crafts through the skilled hands of its artisans. The workshop is particularly known for its detailed carving using traditional tools such as chisels and stone hammers, with much of the work carefully finished by hand.

Building on the diverse techniques of Kyo Ishikogei (Kyoto stone crafts), Saida Stoneworks also collaborates with artists and designers from other fields, conducts workshops overseas, and shares its expertise with landscape gardeners. Through these activities, the workshop contributes to the development and preservation of traditional culture, including the art of stone craftsmanship.