This stone lantern is said to be an Edo period artifact of the Maeda Clan (Kaga Domain) Residence. On the rectangular base, which is decorated in relief with a lotus pattern, stands a long, narrow stone column and a conical stone umbrella. One side of the column features Sanskrit words clearly carved into the stone. A vague, weathered engraving of what appears to be a standing figure can be seen on the opposite side. There are no other inscriptions. An onion-shaped decoration called hoju (jewelry) sits at the very top of the stone umbrella. This lantern is thought to be a memorial to a lady-in-waiting, who was tortured and killed with vipers as punishment for her misconduct. However, as several different stories behind the lantern exist, the truth is still unknown.
