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.
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.
Standard kanji form for this architectural term.
Variant kanji form; less common than 鴟尾.
Variant kanji form; rarely used.
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.