Koma-inu are pairs of statues representing lion-like creatures, considered guardians against evil spirits, usually flanking the entrance of the Shinto shrines. One of the koma-inu is always represented with the mouth open, pronouncing “A", the first letter of the Sanskrit alphabet, symbolizing the beginning.

But in Osaka, in the Namba district, besides the usual statues, you can also admire a gigantic, 12-meters-tall koma-inu, a spectacular construction housing a stage.

Namba Yasaka Shrine, Osaka

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Yesterday’s Japan Photo: Simply beautiful Japanese scenes, Ikebukuro aerial night view