About Iiyama Butsudan (Iiyama Buddhist Altar)
Iiyama Butsudan are Buddhist altars produced in Iiyama City, Nagano Prefecture. Nurtured within the agricultural culture of northern Shinano (Shinshu) where Jodo Shinshu Buddhism is devoutly practiced, this altar production area has a history of craftspeople making altars and Buddhist implements during the snow-bound winter off-season. Characterized by black lacquered surfaces, gold leaf, intricate kumiko woodwork, and carving, these dignified altars have long been cherished in the Hokuriku and Shin'etsu regions. The abundant timber resources of Iiyama and the culture of winter handiwork form the foundation of this industry, and the sincere craftsmanship rooted in rural Buddhist faith continues to be passed down at this Shin'etsu altar production area.
Techniques & Materials
Craft terms are shown in the original Japanese — these are proper names with no standard English equivalents.
Techniques
Materials
Where to see & buy
Workshop names are in Japanese; links go to their official sites.
- 飯山仏壇仏具組合（産地にご確認ください）