Roofed Gateways, somewhat similar to the English lich-gate, are very common, the side-posts having cross-pieces and bracketing at the top, which carry a light thatched, boarded, or shingled roof of considerable projection. Some are curiously ornamented with heavy raised ridges constructed of bamboo poles, and tied with thick wisps of dark red rope. The posts of such Gateways are steadied by the addition of wooden buttresses on the inner side. Occasionally the roof is merely a sloping open trellis entwined with creeping plants. Ornamentally framed panels of wood containing inscriptions are placed over the architraves of these entrances. One part of an extensive garden will often be divided from another by a light fence with miniature thatch-roofed Gateways.
