Japan
Shisa, Shīsā,
Okinawan: shiisaa
[シーサー]
Is a traditional Ryukyuan decoration, often in pairs, resembling a cross between a lion and a dog, from Okinawa mythology.
Shisas are wards, believed to protect from evil.
When in pairs, the left shisa traditionally has a closed mouth, the right one an open mouth. The open mouth wards off evil spirits, and the closed mouth keeps good spirits in.
Takayama, Gifu Prefecture
Kiyomizudera (清水寺, literally »Pure Water Temple«)
Water Buffalo on Taketomi Island
Tokyo
Taketomi Island
Shisa (シーサー Shīsā, Okinawan: shiisaa)
Boat on Kabira Bay
Naha City Colours
Sanju-no-to Pagoda in Kyoto
Golden Pagoda in Kyoto
»Weeping Sakura« in Kyoto
Osaka at night
Kyoto
Kyoto
Tokyo
Snake in Awamori Liquor (Habu Sake) in Naha
Osaka at Night
Takayama
