Shiisa

We can't walk without watching this dog-like ornament in Okinawa. They are called "Shiisa" in Okinawa while similar ornaments are called "Komainu" in any other areas in Japan. I hear that both of their ancestor is sphinx in Egypt. Sure they are way smaller than sphinx, but they are overwhelming in number. Most entrances in Okinawa is guarded by a pair of Shiisa. Not only historical temples or public buildings, but also common houses have a pair of Shiisa on the entrance gate or on the roof. It's just like this city is full of Shiisa and this is a unique feature of Okinawa because we can see Komainu only in front of temples in Japan. The number of Shiisa must be greater than those of stray cats in this island. It will be interesting to make a research about their historical track from Egypt.