National Treasure
Kara-mon, the Imperial Messenger Gate
Momoyama period
Three-bay, single-gate Hirakaramon gate
Eaves: Widely spaced rafters, lath backing
Karahafu-style gable
cypress bark
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The gate that welcomed the Emperor: imbued with imperial splendor and Momoyama-era beauty
The Imperial Messenger Gate (Kara-mon), designated a National Treasure, is the gate traditionally reserved for imperial envoys entering the residence of the abbot. It was built in 1599 and renovated in 2010.
The gate displays four shallow relief crests rendered in maki-e style gold leaf on black lacquer ground. The chrysanthemums are composed of sixteen-petals, a design exclusively reserved for the imperial family, and two paulownia flowers with leaves.
The paulownia crest was originally also used by the imperial family, and subsequently adopted by Toyotomi Hideyoshi as the crest of the House of Toyotomi.
Momoyama period
During the Momoyama period (1573–1603), the powerful generals Oda Nobunaga (1534–1582) and Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537–1598) held central control over Japan. The name Momoyama comes from the Momoyama Hills, where Hideyoshi built Fushimi Castle.
chrysanthemum blossoms
The chrysanthemum is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family and genus Chrysanthemum. It has long been cherished in Japan and symbolizes nobility, long life, purity, and rebirth. It is a symbol of the imperial family and also appears in decorative Buddhist designs.
five-seven paulownia crest
This is a traditional crest in which paulownia tree flowers are arranged in a pattern with seven flower petals in the center and five to the left and right. This crest has symbolized nobility and authority since ancient times, and it has been used by the imperial family, Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537–1598), and other powerful figures throughout Japanese history.
lacquering
A traditional handicraft technique in which lacquer sap (natural resin) is applied to the surfaces of paper, cloth, metal and other materials to create a glossy and resilient coating.
hirakaramon
A karamon, or hirakaramon is a gate that features a roof with karahafu undulating bargeboards on both gable ends of the gate.
karahafu undulating bargeboard
A unique style of roof with a gable that flows from the top center with gentle curves on each side.
cypress-bark-roofed
A roof made by the method where cypress bark is fixed by bamboo nails.
imperial envoy
This refers to an envoy or delegation dispatched by an edict issued by the emperor.
MOVIE
Experience the video to get one step closer.
This video, accompanied by narration, introduces the charms of Kara-mon, the Imperial Messenger Gate. Experience its charms even more deeply through the video.
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Estimated length: 30 seconds