Chigi , Okichigi (置千木) or Higi (氷木) are forked roof finials found in Japanese and Shinto architecture. Chigi predate Buddhist influence and are an architectural element endemic to Japan. They are an important aesthetic aspect of Shinto shrines, where they are often paired with katsuogi, another type of roof ornamentation. Today, chigi and katsuogi are used exclusively on Shinto buildings and distinguish them from other religious structures, such as Buddhist temples in Japan.
Chigi with katsuogi billets, Sumiyoshi-jinja, Hyōgo
Kamakura-gū
Bargeboard chigi at Ise Shrine
Nishioka Hachiman-gū
A finial or hip-knob is an element marking the top or end of some object, often formed to be a decorative feature.
Finial of the dome of the Taj Mahal
Stone finial at Aachen City Hall
Finials used to decorate the top ends of the rollers of a Torah scroll
Yemenite Torah case with finials