Traditional Crafts

Jojima Onigawara Roof TilesStone crafts

Roof tile production began in Jojima, Kurume City, at the beginning of the 17th century during the time the Arima Clan became the lords of Kurume Domain. These tiles gained a reputation for their beautiful gloss, refined shapes and durability. For this reason, they gradually became widely used in shrines, temples and traditional Japanese houses throughout Kyushu. Onigawara (literally, "demon tiles") are decorative ridge-end tiles that resemble gargoyles. As these tiles depict a range of forms, such as fearsome demons, clouds and chrysanthemums, they are said to protect buildings by warding off evil.