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.
金閣寺の屋根には金色の鴟尾が輝いている。
On the roof of Kinkaku-ji, golden ornamental ridge-end tiles gleam.
鴟尾は火除けのまじないとしても用いられた。
Ornamental ridge-end tiles were also used as a charm against fire.
鬼瓦 is a ridge-end tile with a demon face, while 鴟尾 is shaped like a mythical bird or fish. Both are decorative roof-end elements, but 鴟尾 is older and more associated with temple architecture.
The term 鴟尾 literally means 'owl tail' or 'kite tail', referring to the shape of the ornament. The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but it is a traditional architectural term of Chinese origin.