Thomas Hawk posted a photo:
Thomas Hawk posted a photo:
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on the water photography has added a photo to the pool:
A komainu, situated on the roof of the temple. The roof features ornate, grey ceramic tiles, including circular end-tiles decorated with a crest or symbol.
The statue is a type of Japanese roof ornament, often made of ceramic, similar in function to onigawara (demon gargoyle tiles) which are believed to ward off evil spirits and fires. While komainu typically guard the entrances of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, similar guardian figures can be incorporated into roof architecture.