福島天神社の狛牛
The Daonobori in Suzaka City is designated as a historic site. Fukuyama Tenjin Shrine, where the Daonobori written by Takai Kozan is housed, enshrines guardian ox statues.
Originally, guardian dogs (komainu) originated in India, placed beside Buddha statues. They come in pairs as "Agyo" and "Ungyo", commonly found at shrine entrances and along pathways.
Fukuyama Tenjin Shrine was established in 960 AD, enshrining a deity from Kitano Tenmangu in Kyoto to calm natural disasters.
The association between Tenjin and oxen is evident, as Kitano Tenmangu also features ox statues.
There are many legends connecting Sugawara no Michizane and oxen: he was born in the Year of the Ox, an ox cried when he was exiled, and he rode an ox to Dazaifu, among other tales. Oxen are often enshrined at Tenmangu shrines.
| Location | 191 Fukushima, Suzaka City |
|---|---|
| Website | None |