Tradition: Japanese Mythology
Alternative Names: Kenrei Jishi, 建礼獅子
Category: Lion
The Myth
The Kenreijishi is a sacred mythical beast depicted on ceremonial hangings used during great imperial ceremonies in Japan, including the enthronement of an emperor. These decorations, known as kemono-gata bokaku, were displayed beneath the eaves at important palace buildings, including the Daigokuden and the Shishinden. Their imagery showed supernatural creatures proceeding through a heavenly scene beneath a central sun, surrounded by flowing auspicious clouds.
Following the dragons and phoenixes in this procession appears the Kenreijishi, a fantastic lion-like creature with a green or bluish mane. Although its overall appearance resembles a lion, its body is covered in scales, and its belly features the segmented appearance of a serpent. Its tail stretches out long behind it, resembling the tail of a dragon or snake. This unusual combination of leonine and serpentine characteristics distinguishes the Kenreijishi from an ordinary lion.
The Kenreijishi belongs to the procession of auspicious supernatural beasts associated with imperial ceremonial imagery. Its depiction on historical designs of the ceremonial hangings reflects the elaborate menagerie of mythical creatures used to adorn and dignify Japan’s most important court rituals.
Sources
“Kenrei-jishi.” 新版TYZ 妖怪図鑑 (New TYZ Yokai Encyclopedia). https://tyz-yokai.blog.jp/archives/1074485004.html