A stone figure of the Asuka period noted in the chronicle Nihon shoki, compiled in the eighth century. Three of its four tiers have been excavated in the Asuka region of Nara. It was originally about three meters high, with a hole for water intake at the back of the lower tier, and several spouts on the middle tier. It is considered to symbolize Mt. Sumeru from the many mountain-like protrusions carved on the surface, and is thought have been set up as a temporary structure for banquets.
Japanese Garden Dictionary: A Glossary for Japanese Gardens and Their History
(C) 2010 by Ono Kenkichi and Walter Edwards. All rights reserved.
