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.
Osaka at Night
Snake in Awamori Liquor (Habu Sake) in Naha
Takayama, Gifu Prefecture
Takayama
Shisa (シーサー Shīsā, Okinawan: shiisaa)
Golden Pagoda in Kyoto
Kyoto
Osaka at night
Boat on Kabira Bay
Taketomi Island
Water Buffalo on Taketomi Island
Tokyo
»Weeping Sakura« in Kyoto
Tokyo
Kiyomizudera (清水寺, literally »Pure Water Temple«)
Kyoto
Naha City Colours
Sanju-no-to Pagoda in Kyoto
