Beginning 2025, visitors flocked to shrines across Yamaguchi Prefecture to engage in the traditional practice of hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the New Year. Among the highlights of these visits were the uniquely shaped koma-inu statues, triggering curiosity among staff and prompting them to investigate these intriguing figures. This exploration unveiled the rich world and cultural significance surrounding these guardians, as well as the efforts of local experts to preserve their history.
Katsuhiko Fujii, the representative of the Yamaguchi Komainu Association, is well-versed in the history and artistry of these statues. Having visited nearly 1,100 koma-inu across many shrines, he offers unique insights. "Many people refer to them as dogs; they might think of the familiar playful pups when they hear ‘komainu’. But if you trace back their origins, they are more akin to cats, and originally, they were modeled after lions to serve as guardians," Fujii emphasized.
Far from being mere dog-shaped statues, koma-inu carry deep historical roots. Origin stories suggest these mythical creatures were inspired by lions, cherished by rulers of ancient Egypt, and later passed through the Silk Road to China, before making their way to Japan. Upon arrival, the right-side statue typically depicts the lion, and the left, the dog, collectively referred to as koma-inu.
Throughout Yamaguchi, various distinct characteristics of koma-inu emerge based on regional styles and the era they were crafted. Notably, Fujii describes how Tokuyama's koma-inu exhibit unique traits, such as their upward gazes and broad noses, appearing more wild than other designs. “These distinct attributes are part of what makes them special; they are really quite rare,” he noted.
Visiting Shuuho Shrine, considered to house some of the oldest koma-inu statues, Fujii demonstrated his passion for these figures. He expressed admiration for the attention to detail seen in the craftsmanship. "Old koma-inu feature intricately carved fur textures, each wrinkle and expression carefully crafted. Even if they are smaller, it’s remarkable how much effort went behind each one,” he said.
Interestingly, there is also notable variance between coastal styles and mountain styles of koma-inu. Fujii explained, “On the Setouchi side, the right-side statue typically has its mouth open, symbolizing the release of blessings, whereas the left-side statue has its mouth closed, signifying protection and guardianship, often depicted with horns. Conversely, on the Japan Sea side, these features are swapped.” This interplay of regional characteristics adds layers to the appreciation of koma-inu.
Beyond their artistic and historical importance, Fujii feels deeply about the future preservation of these statues against the backdrop of Japan's declining rural population. "The koma-inu represent the lives of those who came before us. When I see them neglected, I feel helpless,” he admitted. Fujii's mission is to leave behind photographs and documents, preserving the legacy of these unique creatures for future generations to explore. “Whenever I find shrines with torii gates on maps, I endeavor to visit, to capture their essence for posterity,” he stated.
Such dedication reflects the universal acknowledgment of various local artisans who contribute to the unique appearances of koma-inu, adding to the cultural mosaic of Yamaguchi. These artisans’ interpretations capture their visions of these mythical protectors. Fujii emphasized, “You can’t say there is one wrong or right way. Koma-inu are purely mythical, making their designs flexible; whether they appear cute or quirky doesn’t diminish their value.”
The world of koma-inu reveals more than local art forms, symbolizing the intersection of myth, culture, and history. Through Fujii’s eyes, it becomes clear how deeply intertwined these sculptures are with Yamaguchi’s community identity. He believes strongly, “The koma-inu also serve as living relics of our past, narrators of our ancestral stories, and arbiters of local lore. Each visit, each detail appreciated, takes us closer to ancestral truths.”
With each visit to these shrines, locals and tourists alike not only admire their beauty but also participate in the preservation of history—one beautifully crafted koma-inu at a time.