Karahafu (唐破風) is a type of gable roof with its notable undulating curved top. This type of gable is common in traditional Japanese architecture. It is particularly common for castles, Buddhist temples, and Shinto shrines.

The name kara can be translated as "China," but it is more likely that the kara in the case of karahafu means "noble" or "elegant."

— History

This roof style was invented by Japanese carpenters during the late Heian period. Illustraitions of them can be found in scrolls from that time on corridors, gates, and palaquins.

Karahafu rose in popularity during the Kamakura and Muromachi periods. When Zen Buddhism was introduced to Japan, karahafu were often constructed on Zen Buddhist temples.

Before the Azuchi-Momoyama period, karahafu were only used on temples and on gateways to homes of the upper classes. Duing the beginning of this period, they became common in Daimyo's castles and mansions. The shogun had a special gateway with a karahafu roof that was reserved only for him.

Gates with the karahafu roof style, karamon (唐門), became a symbol or prestige and religous significance.