What Are Komainu (Guardian Lion-Dogs)?
Are you familiar with the many Komainu (guardian lion-dogs) found at Shinto shrines? The Komainu of Kagurazaka in Shinjuku are rare and unique, so we’d like to introduce them to you. Be sure to visit the Komainu of Kagurazaka.
The History and Significance of Komainu: Guardians of Japanese Shrines
Komainu are believed to ward off evil spirits and serve as guardians at the front of shrines. Although called “dogs,” they are actually lion-like mythical creatures. The origin of Komainu is said to be Egypt or India. According to one theory, they came to Japan through the Silk Road, via China and Korea, hence the name “Koma-inu” (Korean dog).
The Komainu at the Nandaimon gate of Todai-ji Temple is considered the oldest stone Komainu in Japan, dating back to 1196. They became widespread across Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868). Notably, Ise Jingu Shrine does not have Komainu due to its ancient traditions, although it is said that there may be wooden Komainu stored within its warehouses. Tokyo Daijingu Shrine, known as the “Ise Shrine of Tokyo” in Iidabashi, also does not have Komainu. Similarly, Meiji Jingu Shrine does not have Komainu within its precincts, but Komainu is placed in the innermost sanctum known as the “Naijin.”
The Unique Kaga Hakusan Dog Style Komainu of Akagi Shrine in Kagurazaka
The Komainu at Akagi Shrine in Kagurazaka is of the “Kaga Hakusan dog” style, which was popular during the Edo period. This style is common in Ishikawa, Gifu, and Fukui prefectures surrounding Mount Hakusan. The Komainu, with a bobbed hairstyle, resemble the Sphinx of Egypt, adding to their intriguing appearance. These Komainu are often placed inside the shrine buildings, making them less visible to the public.
Beyond Komainu: Foxes and Cows as Divine Messengers at Japanese Shrines
At some shrines, you might find not Komainu but foxes or cows. Foxes are associated with Inari shrines, and cows are associated with Tenmangu shrines, both regarded as divine messengers of the deities worshipped there.
Fox Komainu can be found at Akagi Shrine, Hachimitsu Shrine, Shusse Inari Shrine, and Toshogu Shrine. I particularly like the dignified appearance of these stone foxes.
Rare Sightings: Stone Tigers at Buddhist Temples
While Komainu are commonly found at Shinto shrines, they can occasionally be seen at Buddhist temples. For instance, Bishamonten Zenkokuji Temple in Kagurazaka, a Nichiren Buddhist temple, has two pairs of stone tigers. Bishamonten is believed to have descended to earth in the year, month, day, and hour of the tiger, making the tiger his messenger. This makes the presence of stone tigers even rarer and more worth seeing.
Visiting various shrines and temples to observe the different expressions of Komainu, stone foxes, and stone tigers can add an enjoyable element to your visit.
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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