Karajishi://

> Pronunciation: (KAH-rah-JEE-shee)

> English name: Guardian lion

> Distinctive features: Mythical lion with a thick curly mane, powerful body, sharp claws and teeth. Sometimes horned, often exaggerated with big paws, big head, and a dramatic mane for impact.

> Powers: Protective by nature. Wards off evil, bad spirits, and negative energy. More of a spiritual enforcer than a roaming predator.

> Habitat: Sacred spaces, temples, palaces, and mythic settings. In tattoos, they’re not locked to gates or architecture and can exist freely in clouds or landscapes.

> Claim to fame: Karajishi are mythic guardian lions brought to Japan via China and Korea. They represent strength, authority, and divine protection. While always paired as statues, in tattoos they don’t have to be, and work just as well as a single powerful guardian.

> Common tattoo depictions: works well as just a head, a full body, or as a male and female pairing for balance. peony are a common flower pairing for them and are often shown climbing rocks or just sitting guarding. male has an orb of power and open mouth, female has a closed mouth and cub. 

> Tattoo symbolism: Protection, strength, vigilance, authority, and spiritual guardianship.