In Japan, since ancient times, various customs of protection against misfortune have been passed down to ward off disasters and evil spirits, and to pray for the health and peaceful lives of families.
Protection against misfortune is about avoiding disaster and praying for peaceful days.
This wish has been embodied not only in amulets and talismans, but also in ornaments and decorations that protect homes and buildings.
Protective items placed at entrances, gates, roofs, and gardens embody the desire to ward off misfortunes from the outside and watch over important places.
This time, we will introduce “Komainu” (guardian lion-dogs), “Shoki” (demon-repelling deity), and “Kimon-yoke Kakuseki” (demon-warding corner stones) from the stone protective items handled by ISHIMO.
While learning about the meaning and origin of each, please find your favorite item to watch over your life.
Komainu (Guardian Lion-Dogs) that Ward Off Evil Spirits and Protect Our Lives
Komainu, which stand guard along the approach to shrines and in front of the shrine buildings, have long been cherished as sacred beasts that ward off evil spirits and protect the gods and the shrine.
The two beasts on the left and right are of different breeds: the one on the right is an open-mouthed lion (“A”), while the one on the left is a closed-mouthed komainu with horns on its head (“Un”).
The A-Un posture symbolizes everything from beginning to end.
There are various types of komainu.
The Ishimo-type komainu are found mainly in Kyoto and were designed by the renowned stonemason Yoshimura Shigeemon III.
Even today, they are carefully preserved as komainu at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Shikichi Shrine (Wara Tenjin), Kamigoryo Shrine, and others.
ISHIMO’s guardian lion statues retain their traditional form while being crafted in a compact size that makes them easy to incorporate into everyday life.
They can be displayed as a watchful presence in your home, shop, or any other important space.
Shoki, the Protector of Homes from Evil
Shoki is a figure believed to have existed during the Tang Dynasty in China.
According to legend, when Emperor Xuanzong was ill and confined to bed, Shoki appeared in his dream and vanquished a demon. This story led to Shoki becoming widely known as a symbol of protection against evil and misfortune.
Later, the custom arose of displaying pictures or statues of Shoki as a protector of the home, praying for good health and protection from evil.
In Kyoto, in particular, Shoki has long been affectionately known as “Shoki-san” as a figure that wards off evil spirits.
In Kyoto townhouses, there is a custom of placing a statue of Shoki-san on the roof to prevent evil spirits reflected from neighboring houses’ roof tiles or buildings from entering the home.
ISHIMO’s Shoki-san was specially designed by a stone specialist designer, featuring a gentle, warm, and rounded form.
While respecting its traditional meaning, this protective ornament can be easily incorporated into modern homes, such as entrances and gardens.
Kimachi Stone Shoki（Large）
Kimachi Stone Shoki
A Cornerstone Against Evil: A Way to Avoid Misfortune and Ensure a Peaceful Home
The “demon’s gate” refers to the northeast (Ushitora) direction.
In Japanese geomancy, it is considered an inauspicious direction as the direction from which demons (evil spirits) enter and exit. The opposite direction, the southwest (Hitsuji-Saru), is also considered unlucky and is called the “back demon’s gate.”
A “demon’s gate warding” literally means a charm to ward off evil spirits. The most typical method is the cornerstone for warding off demons.
By arranging square stones in the demon’s gate area of a house or building, covering them with white gravel, and creating a sacred space, it has been transformed into an auspicious place and used as a charm against evil.
Even today, you can see many demon’s gate cornerstones in Kyoto, on houses, shops, and apartment buildings.
For more information about the demon’s gate, please see this article:
Blog Article: Prayers for Peace: A Cornerstone Against Evil
Cornerstone Against Evil
Cornerstone Against Evil (Aji stone)
Choosing a protective charm with heartfelt intentions
When choosing a protective charm, the meaning behind it isn’t the only important factor.
It’s also crucial to choose something that suits the space—its location, size, and appearance—and something you’ll cherish for a long time.
Something that watches over your home at the entrance, something that complements your garden or building.
Knowing the origin and role of each will allow you to display them with even greater affection.
Welcome them into your life as protective presences, along with your wishes for daily peace and the happiness of your family.
Our online shop offers even more products.
Please consider incorporating a protective stone object into your life as a guardian presence.