Protector Guardian Lion-Dog "Karashishi"

“Karashishi” is a quite beloved, playful pattern depicting mythical beasts first introduced to Japan from China via Korea in the 7th or 8th century AD, during the same period as Buddhism’s transmission to Japan.

“Shishi” (or Jishi) is translated as lion but it can also refer to a lion-dog with magical properties and the power to repel evil spirits. “Kara” is meant to suggest something of Chinese origin.

Traditionally depicted in pairs, statues of Karashishi stand guard outside the gates of Japanese Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples; one with mouth open and one with mouth shut; as symbols of protection.

The opened/closed mouth relates to Ah (open mouth) and Un (closed mouth). “Ah” is the first sound of the Japanese alphabet, while “N” (pronounced “un”) is the last. These two sounds symbolize the beginning and the end, birth and death, and all possible outcomes (from alpha to omega) in existence.

It is also said the open mouth is to scare off demons, and the closed mouth to shelter and keep in good spirits. The circular object often beneath their feet is the “Tama”, or sacred jewel, a symbol of Buddhist wisdom that brings light to darkness and holds the power to grant wishes.
Since lions are not indigenous to Japan, China, or Korea, they were to have entered these nation’s cultures in the form of imported art and sculpture, with the earliest traces of the lion as a “protector”, appearing about 208 BC to 221 AD during China’s Han Dynasty.

The peony, or “botan” depicted is to represent beauty, elegance and resilience which has earned the peony its title “queen of flowers”. However, it can also represent bravery, honor, and good fortune in Japanese culture.

At Pagong Kyoto, our artisans have implemented the technique of Kyoto-Yuzen, to bring to life the delightful spirit and tradition of the Lion-Dog Protector Guardian ”Karashishi”.