Introduced in Japan during the Kamakura period (1185–1333), the Zen Buddhism developed its own style of architecture but very few of the original buildings survived until today.

One of the very first temples built in Japan, the Tofuku-ji from Kyoto lost its initial buildings during a series of fires. The gate from this photo, a Sanmon gate, was rebuilt in 1425 and is today the oldest Zen gate in Japan. Declared one of the Japanese National Treasure Buildings, it was last renovated between 1969 and 1978.

Sanmon Gate, Tofuku-ji Temple, Kyoto

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Yesterday’s Japan Photo: Samurai legends, the birthplace of Kyo Hachi-ryu