Nandaimon

Nandaimon, meaning "South Great Gate," is the term used in Japanese Buddhist temple architecture for the southern main gate of a temple complex. It typically stands at the upper end of the approach to the temple's inner precinct and serves as a ceremonial and symbolic threshold between the secular world and the sacred spaces of the temple. The gate is usually a large wooden structure, often two stories tall, with a tiled or shingled roof. It may house protective figures or statues of Buddhist guardians, most commonly the Nio, and often serves as the entry or exit for processions.

The design varies by temple but Nandaimon commonly features a raised platform and sometimes stair access to an upper story. The gate acts as a formal entrance to important buildings such as the main hall (Hondō) or the temple compound's inner precinct. In many sites the Nandaimon is designated as a cultural property and may be protected as an Important Cultural Property or National Treasure.

Notable examples include the Nandaimon at Todai-ji in Nara, which is widely recognized as a landmark of the temple complex. Other temples across Japan also have gates referred to as Nandaimon.

See also: Sanmon, Nio, Mon (gate)