Abstract: A symbol decoding apparatus run-level-decodes corresponding symbol data using the same scan pattern data as used for run-level-encoding. A symbol separator separates the received run-level-encoded symbol data into run data and level data. An address outputter selects a particular scan pattern using the scan pattern data associated with the symbol data, and selects a scan address for storing the level data among the scan addresses corresponding to the selected scan pattern using the separated run data. A data store stores the level data supplied from the symbol separator at the storage position designated by the selected scan address. Thus, the run-level-encoded symbols are run-level-decoded based on the scan pattern used for run-level encoding and stored in a form appropriate for use in a downstream unit.