Guardians of the Rooftops: Japan's Onigawara

Seen as one of the (unofficial) commemorations of August 8th is a day dedicated to Japan’s kawara rooftops, I thought I would share this photo of an onigawara. What makes this one special is that it’s actually a replica made out of Styrofoam; a fun, lightweight take on a traditional architectural guardian.

Onigawara belong to the broader family of kawara, Japan’s fired‑clay roof tiles that have shaped the country’s architectural landscape for centuries. While regular kawara tiles protect homes from rain, wind, and summer heat, onigawara add a layer of meaning - a symbolic guardian watching over the building below. Their presence is both practical and spiritual, believed to ward off misfortune and invite good fortune.

Today, onigawara remain a beloved detail of Japanese rooftops, blending artistry with tradition. They add striking decoration to the roofs of temples, shrines and historic buildings. Despite the name, which literally means “demon tile,” many onigawara don’t depict fearsome faces. Instead, they often feature swirling clouds, floral crests, or protective motifs, like the elegant design in the photo.