Karahafu Gable
The gables (karahafu) on the north and south facades of Inuyama Castle are among its most distinguishing features. The undulating curves resemble a drawn bow ready to release an arrow. Although “kara” can be translated as “Chinese” and perhaps indicates a Chinese provenance, gables of this shape can be found throughout East Asia. In Japan, they are often found on castles, Buddhist temples, and Shinto shrines.
It is thought that the gables were added during the expansion by Naruse Masanari (1567–1625) when he added the third and fourth floors during his service as lord of the castle. The gables were meant to add an element of prestige to the building and to be a symbol of authority.