Abstract
A sanctuary has allways an entrance : a gate. Sometimes these gates are built with wooden stage. They are called "Ro-Haiden" in Yamaguchi area. This paper will clarify that the "Ro-Haiden" of Yamaguchi area was built and spread under the influence of Todaiji-Hachimanga Shrine and Hofu-TemmangU Shrine. The "Ro-Haiden" was used not only as a passage but also as a ritual place. The content 1. Introduction 2. The style and its' distribution of the "Ro-Haiden" in the area of Yamaguchi 3. Ceremonial practices at the "Ro-Haiden" (1) In Hofu-Temmangu Shrine (2) In Aiosho-Hachimangn Shrine 4. The formation of the "Ro-Haiden" and its' distribution. (1) A review of hitherto published theories about the "Ro-Haiden" (2) The relation between Todaiji-Hachimanga Shrine and Hofu-TemmangQ Shrine in the Kamakura era (3) The area formed by the "Kechienshn" of Hofu-TemmangQ Shrine (4) The distribution of the "Kechiensha" group [Hofu-Temmanga Shrine] and the distribution of the "Ro-Haiden" 5. Conclusion
