[Photos] Want to see cute lion-dog statues? Check out these popular shrines

Did you know that the "komainu" (guardian lion dogs) you see at shrines aren't just real dogs, but sacred beasts?

More and more people are becoming fascinated by the komainu (guardian lion dogs) that greet you as you pass through the torii gate.  

Some people probably check out the komainu when they visit a shrine for sightseeing or other reasons.

In this article, we'll introduce popular komainu and shrines by region, as well as recommended komainu-related books, with plenty of photos, for komainu lovers!

"Why are there two Komainu?"

"Are there any unusual Komainu?"

"Which shrines are popular for Komainu?"

We'll answer these questions, so be sure to read to the end.

What are "komainu"?

Komainu are a pair of sacred animal statues: the "Agyo" statue, placed on the right side facing the worship hall with its mouth open, and the "Ungyo" statue, placed on the left side with its mouth closed.

Many people believe both statues are Komainu, but the one on the right is generally considered to be a "lion" and the one on the left is a "komainu."

Sacred animals with the same appearance as Komainu have only been confirmed in Japan, and do not exist in China, where the lion is said to have originated. However, since Komainu are also believed to have originated in China, they are sometimes called "Korean dogs."

Source: Komainu are so diverse! | Nara Prefecture Historical and Cultural Resources Database "Ikasu Nara"

The reason Komainu are dedicated to shrines is to "ward off evil spirits and protect the gods." The brave-looking lion dogs seem to be warding off evil spirits from us worshippers.

5 Shrines Recommended by Lion Dog Enthusiasts

From here, we will introduce five shrines recommended for Komainu enthusiasts!

• Miwato Shrine, Fukushima Prefecture
• Kashima Shrine, Fukushima Prefecture
• Iizaka Hachiman Shrine, Fukushima Prefecture
• Shiratori Shrine, Aichi Prefecture
• Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, Shizuoka Prefecture

If you're looking to discover new Komainu, be sure to check this out.

Miwatari Shrine, Fukushima Prefecture

Source: View Tabi

Mito Shrine in Koriyama City, Fukushima Prefecture, is located in a quiet spot, just past the approach to the shrine, lined with cedar trees.

There you'll find these two guardian lion statues.

Source: View Tabi

The grinning Un form and the rounded A-Un form protect the shrine.

This shrine is located in a very quiet area, so you can relax while observing the lion statues.

Fukushima Prefecture "Kashima Shrine"

Source: View Tabi

At Kashima Shrine in Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, with a history dating back over 1,260 years, you can encounter unique lion-dog statues.

Source: View

Source: View Tabi

There's a puppy next to the Ungata statue, and the Agata statue is holding a ball.

If you want to see these unique and charming lion statues, be sure to visit!

Iizaka Hachiman Shrine, Fukushima Prefecture

Source: Iizaka Hachiman Shrine

Iizaka Hachiman Shrine in Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, is known for its famous "Kenka Matsuri" (Fighting Festival).

Here are the lion dogs you can encounter at this shrine, which is also designated as a cultural property of Fukushima City.

Source: View

Source: View Tabi

In this photo, their faces are obscured by snow, but both statues watch over the shrine and its visitors with brave expressions.

Shiratori Shrine, Aichi Prefecture

Source:

Source: Trip Planner

A guardian lion with marble eyes welcomes visitors.

The expression is also adorable.

Shizuoka Prefecture "Kunozan Toshogu Shrine"

Source: Kunozan Toshogu Shrine

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is the first Toshogu Shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu.

You can encounter these guardian lion dogs at the historic Toshogu Shrine.

Source: Trip Planner

Located in front of the Kunozan Toshogu Shrine Museum, this statue is characterized by its large, round face.

Their unique and charming expressions will captivate many Komainu enthusiasts.

What about some cute, laid-back Komainu?

Komainu are often thought of as having a sharp, brave expression, but some have expressions that make you feel relaxed.

Now, let's introduce some relaxed-looking Komainu!

The Laid-Back Komainu at Rokugo Shrine in Tokyo

These are the Komainu you can encounter at Rokugo Shrine in Ota Ward, Tokyo.

Source: Jalan News

Its distinctive feature is its wide-open mouth, revealing its beautiful teeth.

In fact, it's been designated an Important Cultural Property and has even appeared on a poster for the Ise Grand Shrine's Shikinen Sengu (yearly rebuilding) ceremony.

Both his naturally relaxed expression and impressive career are fascinating.

The Laid-Back Komainu of Obata Hachiman Shrine in Gunma Prefecture

You can find these Komainu at Obata Hachiman Shrine in Kanra Town, Gunma Prefecture.

Source: Jalan News

What a unique and indescribable expression!

The unique expressions, which seem slightly angry or troubled, are charming.

Morioka Tenmangu Shrine, Iwate Prefecture

You can encounter these Komainu at Morioka Tenmangu Shrine in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture.

Source: Jalan News

Of all the expressions we've introduced so far, this one is arguably one of the most unique.

It almost looks like a Moai statue!

The poet Ishikawa Takuboku is said to have often visited these lion statues to find solace.

Popular lion statues [Kyoto Edition]

Kyoto is home to many historic shrines and temples.

Now, let's take a look at some of Kyoto's most popular lion statues!

Toribeyama Myoken Daibosatsu Myoken-do

This guardian lion is enshrined at Toribesan Myoken Daibosatsu Myoken-do in Higashiyama Ward.

Source: Yes, let's go to Kyoto.

Source: Yes, let's go to Kyoto.

Unlike the Komainu introduced so far, this one is made of ceramic.

Komainu aren't just made of stone; they come in a variety of styles, including bronze, iron, and ceramic.

The Komainu at Toribesan Myoken Daibosatsu Myoken-do are highly sought after for their rare ceramic construction.

Kyoogokokuji Temple

These Komainu are found at Kyoogokokuji Temple (Toji Temple) in Minami Ward, Kyoto City.

Source: Komainu Net

This is a wooden Komainu statue. Wooden Komainu statues are extremely rare, and many are designated as Important Cultural Properties by the national government.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

You can encounter these guardian lion statues at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, famous for its "Kiyomizu Stage."

Source: Yes, let's go to Kyoto.

Komainu are typically paired, with an open-mouthed "A-gata" and a closed-mouthed "Un-gata." However, the Komainu in front of Kiyomizu-dera Temple's Niomon Gate are unique in that both have their mouths open.

For this reason, they are also known as "Aa's Komainu."

It's rare to come across two Komainu with their mouths open, so be sure to check them out when you visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Popular Komainu Information [Saitama Edition]

In 2019, the Saitama Prefectural Board of Education held a poll to determine the most popular Komainu dogs in Saitama Prefecture, titled "#101 Saitama Komainu Dogs."

Saitama Prefecture is home to approximately 960 pairs of Komainu dogs, making it a must-see for Komainu enthusiasts.

Here, we'll introduce the top three Komainu dogs in "#101 Saitama Komainu Dogs," ranked in order of popularity!

Mitsumine Shrine

You can encounter these Komainu at Mitsumine Shrine in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture.

Source: Chiku Blog

This is the most popular Komainu in the "101 Saitama Komainu" contest, receiving 2,808 votes.

The dignified expression, said to be inspired by a wolf, is captivating.

Soka Shrine

You can encounter these lion dogs at Soka Shrine in Soka City, Saitama Prefecture.

Source: Soka Shrine

Source: Soka Shrine

It received 2,580 votes in the "101 Saitama Komainu" poll, placing it second.

Originally made of bronze, it was donated under the wartime metal collection order and then re-dedicated as a stone statue.

Tsuki Shrine

At Tsuki Shrine in Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture, you can encounter some unusual guardian lion statues.

Source: aumo

In fact, it's not a "Koma" dog, but a "Koma" rabbit!

At Tsuki Shrine, the name "Tsuki" (月) is thought to represent the moon, and rabbits have long been treated as messengers of the gods.

Tsuki Shrine is said to bring good luck, so be sure to visit!

Three Recommended Komainu-Related Books

"I want to see more Komainu!"

"I want to know the history of Komainu."

For those of you who think like this, we'd like to introduce three Komainu-related books!

① A Walk with Komainu | Minoshi Matakako

② New Komainu Studies | Takuki Yoshimitsu

③ Kyoto Komainu Tour | Kodera Yoshiaki

Read books related to Komainu and find your favorite one!

① Komainu Walk | Minoshi Matakako

Source: Amazon

"Komainu Sanpo" is a book introducing the charms of Komainu statues across Japan, selected by the author and editor.

The Komainu statues are introduced with photographs, text, and illustrations, making it feel like you're taking a stroll around the area and exploring the various Komainu statues.

② New Komainu Studies | Takuki Yoshimitsu

Source: Amazon

"New Komainu Studies" is the definitive book on Komainu, with over 500 photographs.

All photographs are in color, allowing you to carefully examine the detailed characteristics of various Komainu.

The book is packed with information about Komainu, allowing readers to contemplate their value and meaning.

③ Kyoto Komainu Pilgrimage | Yoshiaki Kodera

Source: Amazon

"Kyoto Komainu Tour" is a book dedicated to Kyoto's Komainu.

Focusing on Kyoto, the birthplace of Japanese Komainu culture, we explore the ecology of Komainu.

It's great to be able to check out the details of Kyoto's Komainu that aren't included in guidebooks.

Summary (Cute Komainu)

Komainu are enshrined at shrines all over Japan. Their shapes and appearances vary from shrine to shrine, from simple dog figures to distinctive shapes and expressions, each one's unique charm.

Even lesser-known shrines have unique komainu, so why not visit a local shrine when you travel?

Some people may only visit shrines during limited times, such as New Year's or festivals, but if you have the time, be sure to visit and pay attention to the komainu.

It's also fun to visit shrines far away by train or bus.

Visit various shrines and meet your favorite lion-dog!