Pagoda Lanterns, also known as Japanese lanterns, are hand-carved from a variety of stone types to create a unique style of outdoor lantern that mimics the look of a Japanese temple. Before they came to Japan from China sometime in the early 7th century, ancient stone or silver lanterns were used in China to illuminate Buddhist temples. The lights in these lanterns, acting as offerings to the Buddha, represented Buddhist teachings to help overcome the darkness that came with ignorance. The Japanese used them in their Shinto shrines and temples as well.