Sanmon

The Sanmon (三門 or 山門, literally "three gates") is the most important gate of a Japanese Zen Buddhist temple, and is often found in temples of other Buddhist sects as well. It is also called Sangedatsumon (三解脱門, literally "three liberations gate"). The sanmon is a monumental two-storied gate, though sometimes it can appear as a single-storied gate with an extended roof, symbolizing the three gates to enlightenment.

The three gates represent the three marks of existence or sanbōin (三法印): emptiness (kū), formlessness (musō), and no-activity (moui), or alternatively, the three doors to liberation (san gedatsu mon): freedom from greed (ton), hatred (jin), and ignorance (chi). By passing through the sanmon, one symbolically transcends these three afflictions and enters the sacred space of the temple.

While the sanmon might appear to be simply an entrance, it holds a significant symbolic function. It typically contains statues of Buddhist deities on the upper level, sometimes accessible to the public. Climbing the gate allows a visitor to symbolically look out over the world from a higher perspective.

Architecturally, the Sanmon often serves as an imposing architectural feature, showcasing the power and grandeur of the temple. They are usually large, multi-tiered structures constructed of wood. Notable examples can be found at Chion-in in Kyoto, and Nanzen-ji, also in Kyoto. The specific architectural style can vary depending on the temple and its lineage.