Bronze Statue at Hase-dera Temple, Kamakura, Japan

Shot this bronze statue of Jikokuten at Hase-dera Temple, Kamakura, Japan. Jikokuten literally means “Guardian of the Nation”. Jikokuten is the Keeper of the Kingdom, the Upholder of the Country, the Protector of the World. Jikokuten usually carries a sword in right hand, with closed left hand resting on hip; sometimes shown holding a stringed instrument or playing a lute (which harkens to the Middle Way – strings break if too tight, but if too slack, no sound is produced). Said to command an army of Kendatsuba (celestial musicians) and Bishasha (vampire demons). As the Buddhist protector of the eastern quarter, Jikokuten is similar to the dragon of Chinese mythology. The colors and symbols associated with Jikokuten vary according to country and sect.

See a little gallery of all the images shot here: Gallery of Hase-dera Temple at Kamakura Images – Japan Stock Photography.