This is a replica of Himeji Castle's Shachihoko, which is placed in Shiromidai Park.
The Shachihoko is placed so that Himeji Castle can be seen in the background, making it a good photo spot for tourists.
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[](https://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/kanko/0000004752.html)
Shachihoko: An imaginary creature with the head of a tiger (or dragon) and the body of a fish, it is believed to protect buildings from fire. Many of them were placed on top of castle towers during the Warring States period.