Ancient Temples Preservation Law

Date: June 5, 1897 • Location: Tokyo, Japan

The Ancient Temples and Shrines Preservation Law was passed, instituting the protection of structures and artifacts in Japan designated National Treasures.

In Japan, National Treasure , refers to Tangible Cultural Properties designated by Japanese law as “having exceptionally high value.” It applies to buildings, artwork, and crafts, selected from Important Tangible Cultural Properties by the Agency for Cultural Affairs. A Tangible Cultural Property is considered to be of historic or artistic value, classified either as buildings and structures or as fine arts and crafts. Each National Treasure must demonstrate outstanding workmanship, high value for world cultural history, or exceptional value for scholarship.