The lantern has no shaft and instead rests on three or four legs that arch outward from the base. It usually sits relatively low to the ground, and combined with the multiple legs, it lends a sense of stability to a landscape. This style of lantern is so named because it shows its best under a mantle of snow.
(Shinjuku-Gyoen, Tokyo Japan)
The kasa (cap or roof) is also much broader than in other Japanese style lanterns. The term 'snow-viewing' refers to the kasa's resemblance to a bamboo hat with an accumulation of snow on the top. The main part of the lantern is usually either round, six- or eight-sided. It is usually supported by a four-legged base but can have from 3 to 6 legs depending on the style.
Where a stone lantern has a "Half Moon" shaped opening this should always be turned toward the west, while a "Full Moon" shaped opening should be turned toward the east according to the opinion of some Tea Masters. However, to others, this is of no great importance and they prefer to turn the lantern so that the light looks best in the garden.
Yukimi lanterns have the following five elements stacked one atop the other.
- Kurin (ornamental top or finial)
- Kasa (cap or roof)
- Hibukuro (light chamber or fire box)
- Chudai or ukebachi (middle stand, platform for the firebox)
- Jirin or dai (base) can have one to six feet
Yukimi lanterns are made of natural frost resistant granite with pre-drilled hole for electrical wiring. However, in many cases, an external 'spot light' pointing to the yukimi make an even more impressive focal point during night time to complete your Eastern themed garden. Due to the impressive weight of granite each lantern is carved into the above mentioned five separate pieces.
