Answer:
The presence of architectural elements such as the dragon, the lion, or the eagle in Asian temples is due to their cultural and religious beliefs. In East Asia, especially in China and Japan, many temples are guarded by the Four Heavenly Kings. These are warrior figures who guard the four directions―north, south, east, west. They ward off malicious spirits. The figure standing in the east is often depicted as a dragon. Chinese dragons are also a symbol of power, strength, and good luck.