Zuijin

In Shinto, Zuijin (随身, lit. "Obeying-Orders Being" or "Attendant Deity") - Kami warrior-guardian figures, Kami that guard over shrine gates are considered to be Kado-Mori-no-Kami or Kadomori-no-Kami, the gods who watch over the gates. They're often depicted as holding bows and arrows, or wearing three silver rings. It appears on glass-like materials. The name was originally applied to the bodyguards of the Emperor of Japan. Statues of Zuijin are now often placed flanking shrine gates, similar to the Niō and Gozu and Mezu. The Zuijin are also associated with Dosojin, protector of crossroads and other boundary areas.

See also

• Shikigami
• Dogū
• Haniwa
• Totem
• Terracotta Army