White tiger （Byakko)

The word “white tiger” comes from the four divine beasts in Chinese mythology. The Four Gods originated in ancient China and were introduced to Japan, and it is said that the four divine beasts protect the four directions of the heavens: the Seiryu in the east, the Suzaku in the south, the White Tiger in the west, and Genbu in the north.

The land where the four gods are placed is considered to be the best place in Feng Shui, and is said to block out evil spirits, bring in happiness, and bring good health and luck.

Also, based on the theory of Yin-Yang and Five Elements, a “Kirin” or “Yellow Dragon” may be included in the center, in which case they are called the Five Gods or the Five Beasts.

The white tiger is considered an auspicious creature because of its beautiful appearance. In India, white tigers are considered messengers of the gods, and legend has it that they bring happiness to those who see them.

In Japan, a white tiger is also depicted on the pedestal of the principal image of the Kondo of Yakushiji Temple in Nara Prefecture, and on the west wall of the inner stone coffin of the Kitora tomb in Asuka Village.

What is “a land suitable for the four gods”?

It is a land where the four gods who govern the four directions protect the north, south, east, and west, and it means “the best land” where good energy gathers and stays.

It is said that there is a clear stream to the east (Soryu), a wide open wetland to the south (Suzaku), a long road to the west (Byakko), and a towering mountain to the north (Genbu).

n Heiankyo, “Soryu” is said to be the Kamogawa River, “Suzaku” is said to be Okuriike, “Byakko” is Sanin-do (or Sanyo), and “Genbu” is Mt. Funaoka.

In this way, Heiankyo was built based on the idea of corresponding to the four gods. Yasaka Shrine to the east, Jonangu Shrine to the south, Matsuo Taisha Shrine to the west, and Kamigamo Shrine to the north were built to protect the four gods, and Heian Shrine is the center of these four gods.