This temple in Machida City has a large, impressive gate with beautifully carved mythical creatures. There are shishi, which are the same creature as koma-inu (the 'lion-dogs' that guard the approach to Shinto shrines) and are believed to have protective powers. There are also baku, strange animals with elephant trunks and tiger's paws, that are believed to eat nightmares, and to complete this mythical menagerie there are also dragons.
- 1 min read
Soho-in
Menagerie of carved mythical creatures in Machida
Join the discussion
Nicole Bauer
10 years ago
Hi Cathy, you are really giving Machida a whole new face. Great find! I also completely agree with Iain, Tokyo never fails to surprise!! Many thanks.
Thanks Nicola! Machida is full of nice surprises.
Justin Velgus
10 years ago
Your excellent close ups really show the detail of artistry in the subjects you captured!
They are really well done, aren't they!
Iain Stanley
10 years ago
You could spend a year in Tokyo and not see half of its offerings!!
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