The topic of Katōmado is one that has been studied, debated and analyzed for years. The importance of Katōmado is reflected in various aspects of society, from politics to popular culture. As interest in Katōmado continues to grow, it is crucial to understand its impact on our lives. In this article, we will explore different facets of Katōmado and its relevance in the modern world. From its history to its future implications, we will examine in detail how Katōmado has shaped and continues to shape our environment.
Katōmado (火灯窓, lit. fire light window), also written as (花頭窓・華頭窓, lit. flower top window), is a style of pointed arch or bell-shaped window found in Japanese architecture.[note 1] It first arrived in Japan from China together with Zen Buddhism, as an element of Zen style architecture, but from the end of the 16th century it started to be used in temples of other Buddhist sects, Shinto shrines, castles, and samurai residences as well. The window initially was not flared, but its design and shape changed over time: the two vertical frames were widened and curves were added at the bottom. The kanji characters used for its name have also changed through the centuries, from the original "fire window" to "flower head window".
The oldest extant example of katōmado can be found in Engaku-ji's Shariden (Relic Hall)[note 2] in Kamakura, which is thought to closely follow the original style as it was introduced to Japan, with the vertical frames touching the bottom in straight lines. Another well-known example can be found in the room called Genji-no-ma (源氏の間) in the Main Hall at Ishiyama-dera, Shiga prefecture. For this reason, katōmado are also known as genjimado (源氏窓, Genji window).