What is a Rōmon? The History and Structure of a Two-Story Gate Indicating the Status of Shrines and Temples
A Rōmon (楼門) is a two-story gate built at the entrance to the grounds of shrines and temples, and is an important style in traditional Japanese architecture. It is characterized by a structure where the lower level has no roof, and only the upper level has a roof and railing. It is often seen at temples and shrines of high status.
Basic Structure and Characteristics of a Tower Gate
Definition of Architectural Style
A tower gate, also called a “two-story double gate,” has the following structural characteristics:
- Lower Level: Composed only of pillars and beams, an open space without a roof
- Upper Level: Equipped with a roof and railing, and may house Buddhist or Shinto statues inside
- Height: Generally over 10 meters, boasting an imposing appearance
- Roof Style: Primarily hip-and-gable roofs and gable roofs
Differences Between Tower Gates, Mountain Gates, and Niomon Gates
| Name | Characteristics | Main Locations |
|——|——|————-|
| Tower Gate | Two-story, no roof on the lower level | Both shrines and temples |
| Mountain Gate | A general term for the main gate of a temple | Temple |
| Niomon Gate | A gate housing Nio statues | Primarily temples |
The term “Romon” refers to an architectural style, while “Sanmon” and “Niomon” are classifications based on function or the objects enshrined within. In practice, there is sometimes overlap, such as “a Niomon in the Romon style.”
History and Cultural Background of Romon
Origin and Transmission
The style of Romon was introduced from Chinese Buddhist architecture and became established in Japan during the Asuka and Nara periods. The Horyuji Temple’s Chumon (7th century) is known as one of the oldest existing Romon structures.
Changes Through the Ages
- Nara Period: Became widespread as an essential element in the layout of Buddhist temple complexes.
- Heian Period: Began to be adopted in Shinto shrines due to the influence of syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism.
- Kamakura/Muromachi Period: Developed its own unique style in Zen Buddhist temples.
- Edo Period: Donated by feudal lords throughout the region, becoming a symbolic building of the area.
Representative Examples of Tower Gates
Tower Gates Designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties
Todai-ji Temple South Gate (Nara Prefecture)
25.46 meters high, designated as a National Treasure. A masterpiece of Daibutsu-style architecture rebuilt during the Kamakura period, housing Kongo Rikishi statues (Nio statues).
Horyu-ji Temple Middle Gate (Nara Prefecture)
Constructed during the Asuka period, part of the world’s oldest wooden building complex. Features a unique structure with a central pillar.
Kiyomizu-dera Niomon Gate (Kyoto Prefecture)
Rebuilt during the Muromachi period, this vividly painted vermilion gatehouse is a symbolic architectural feature of Kyoto’s Higashiyama district.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine Gate (Kanagawa Prefecture)
A representative example of a gatehouse in shrine architecture. Its vermilion paint and metalwork are magnificent.
Senso-ji Temple Hozomon Gate (Tokyo)
A reinforced concrete structure recreating the Edo period style. Famous for its giant straw sandals.
Highlights and Points to See During Your Visit
Points to Appreciate Architectural Beauty
- Techniques of Brackets (Kumimono)
The complex structure of the brackets (tokyo) supporting the upper levels is a testament to the carpenter’s skill. Compare the different designs in the Japanese, Daibutsu, and Zen styles.
- Sculptural Decorations
The frog-leg brackets (kaerumata) and wooden carvings (kibana) are adorned with exquisite carvings of dragons, lions, flowers, and birds. Edo period gate towers are particularly characterized by their high level of ornamentation.
- Enshrined Buddhist and Shinto Statues
Sometimes, statues of the Four Heavenly Kings or the Twelve Divine Generals are enshrined inside the upper levels. While usually closed to the public, special openings offer a rare opportunity to view them.
- Plaques
The plaques bearing the names of temples and shrines displayed on the gates are often the work of renowned calligraphers or members of the imperial family, and are valuable as works of calligraphic art.
Etiquette and Points to Note When Visiting a Temple
- How to Pass Through: The main gate (Romon) marks a boundary between the sacred and divine realms. The proper etiquette is to bow before passing through.
- Avoid the Center: The center of the gate is considered a passageway for the gods and Buddhas. Therefore, pass through on either the left or right side.
- Photography Manners: For the protection of cultural properties, tripods may be prohibited or photography may be restricted.
- Special Openings: Some temples and shrines open the upper levels to the public a few times a year; please check in advance.
Benefits and Beliefs of the Main Gate
Role as a Boundary
The main gate (Romon) is a symbol of a boundary separating the secular world from the sacred realm. Passing through the gate purifies the mind and body, preparing one to approach the gods and Buddhas.
Protection by Nio Statues and Divine Images
The Nio statues (Kongo Rikishi statues) and the Four Heavenly Kings (Shitenno) enshrined in the main gate are believed to ward off evil spirits and protect worshippers.
- Agyo: A statue with its mouth open, symbolizing the beginning of all things.
- Ungyo: A statue with its mouth closed, symbolizing the end of all things.
These two statues represent the truth of the universe and are believed to offer protection against evil and misfortune.
Customs of Making Wishes
Some temples and shrines have a custom of offering large straw sandals to their gatehouses. This is a prayer for “strong legs” and “safe travels,” and the straw sandals at the Hozomon Gate of Senso-ji Temple (4.5 meters long) are particularly famous.
Access to Major Temples and Shrines with Tower Gates
Kanto Region
Senso-ji Temple (Taito-ku, Tokyo)
- Access: 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and Toei Asakusa Line
- Visiting Hours: 6:00-17:00 (Gates open at 6:30 from October to March)
- Admission Fee: Free
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine (Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
- Access: 10-minute walk from Kamakura Station on the JR Yokosuka Line
- Visiting Hours: 6:00-20:30
- Admission Fee: Free (Treasure Hall requires a separate fee)
Kansai Region
Todai-ji Temple (Nara City, Nara Prefecture)
- Access: 20-minute walk from Nara Station on the Kintetsu Nara Line, or take a bus to “Daibutsu-den Kasuga Taisha-mae”
- Visiting Hours: 7:30-17:30 (Subject to seasonal variations)
- Admission Fee: Great Buddha Hall 600 yen (South Gate is free)
Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture)
- Access: 25-minute walk from Keihan Railway “Kiyomizu-Gojo Station”, 10-minute walk from city bus “Gojo-zaka” stop
- Visiting Hours: 6:00-18:00 (extended depending on the season)
- Admission Fee: 400 yen
Horyuji Temple (Ikaruga Town, Nara Prefecture)
- Access: 20-minute walk from JR Yamatoji Line “Horyuji Station”, or bus “Horyuji-monzen” stop
- Visiting Hours: 8:00-17:00 (until 16:30 from November to February)
- Admission Fee: 1,500 yen (common to both the Western and Eastern Precincts)
Preservation and Modern Significance of the Tower Gate
Cultural Property Preservation Efforts
Many gate towers are designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties, and undergo regular repairs. They also play an important role as a place for the transmission of traditional temple carpentry techniques.
Influence on Modern Architecture
The structural beauty of gate towers has influenced modern architects, and is sometimes incorporated into the design of public buildings and commercial facilities. They are attracting attention as an example of the fusion of tradition and innovation.
Summary
Gate towers are not merely gates; they embody the formality and aesthetic sense of Japanese religious architecture. Their magnificent appearance is the culmination of over a thousand years of craftsmanship, and they are devices that inspire a sense of reverence for gods and Buddhas in worshippers. When visiting temples and shrines, pay attention to the details of the gate towers and try to feel the prayers and the essence of the techniques that our ancestors poured into them.
