Japanese traditional gates, Kabuki-mon

Amongst all the Japanese traditional gates, the simplest one is the Kabuki-mon: two vertical poles connected by a horizontal beam (kabuki), without any roof but sometimes with ornaments at the end of the beam. A very simple but beautiful architecture, although without the grandeur of the other Japanese gates.

Used mostly for samurai residences, the Kabuki-mon can also be found at the entrance of castles, like the one in this photo, taken at the Gifu Castle. Although they may look similar, the Kabuki-mon gates must not be confused with the Shinto torii...