鴟し尾び

noun

ornamental ridge-end tile

A decorative tile placed at each end of a roof ridge, often shaped like a mythical bird or fish. Used in traditional Japanese architecture, especially on temples and castles.

• 金きん閣かく寺じの屋や根ねには金きん色いろの鴟し尾びが輝かがやいている。

  On the roof of Kinkaku-ji, golden ornamental ridge-end tiles gleam.

• 鴟し尾びは火ひ除よけのまじないとしても用もちいられた。

  Ornamental ridge-end tiles were also used as a charm against fire.