shitenno

Guardian Kings

Shitenno are the scary-looking figures in threatening poses. The four that surround the Buddha are the Guardian Kings of the Four Directions. The northern guardian is Bishamonten (or Tamonten), who holds a pagoda in his hand. The eastern guardian is Jikokuten, who holds a sword. The southern guardian is Zochoten, who holds a lance. The western guardian is Komokuten, who holds a brush in one hand and a scroll in the other. They are often crushing demons under their feet.

Symbols of Japan: Thematic Motifs in Art and Design
Merrily Baird

There are also shitenno that appear in pairs, usually at gates, and are called Nio. The open-mouthed Nio on the left is Ungyo and the closed-mouth Nio on the right is Agyo. Together they are called the Heavenly Kings.

Buddhist Art and Architecture
Thames & Hudson