JAPAN’S CULTURAL DESIGNATIONS
An object of tangible cultural value—such as a building, craft, sculpture, piece of calligraphy, classical text, ancient document, archaeological artifact, or historical record—that holds significant historical, artistic, or academic importance to Japan is classified as a tangible cultural property.
IMPORTANT CULTURAL PROPERTY
An Important Cultural Property is a tangible cultural item officially designated by the Japanese government under the Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties. These items are recognized for their notable historical, artistic, or academic value.
NATIONAL TREASURE
A National Treasure is a particularly outstanding Important Cultural Property, designated by the Japanese government as an irreplaceable treasure of the nation. These items possess exceptional value from the perspective of world culture.
IMPORTANT ART OBJECT
An Important Art Object is a work of art designated by the Japanese government before the enactment of the current Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties. The designation was primarily intended to prevent the export of culturally significant artworks.