On July 26, UNESCO's World Heritage Committee officially included the Ancient Capital Complex of Asuka - Fujiwara in Nara Prefecture (Japan) in the World Heritage List, marking another important milestone in the country's efforts to preserve cultural heritage.
According to the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the new heritage named "Palace Capitals of Asuka and Fujiwara" includes 19 archaeological sites dating from the 6th to the early 8th centuries. Most of the relics are located in Asuka village along with the two cities of Kashihara and Sakurai in Nara Prefecture.
Among the prominent works are the ruins of Asuka Palace, believed to be the place where Emperor Tenmu's royal palace was located, and Takamatsuzuka tomb, famous for its colorful murals that are preserved almost intact. These are all important traces reflecting Japan's transformation from an alliance of clans to a centrally ruled nation.
The Japanese government said that this heritage complex is a special proof of the formation of the ancient Japanese state through the exchange and absorption of cultural and political elements from East Asian countries.
The remaining relics help researchers better understand the development of the palace system, urban planning as well as Japanese governance more than 1,300 years ago.
The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed that it will continue to closely coordinate with UNESCO and international organizations to help the global community better understand the value and attractiveness of World Heritage sites on Japanese territory.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also sent congratulations to the people after the heritage complex was registered, and committed that the government will continue to protect and preserve the precious cultural and historical values of the country for future generations.
With the addition of the Ancient Capital Asuka - Fujiwara to the World Heritage List, Japan currently owns 27 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including cultural and natural heritage sites. Among them, there are many famous landmarks such as Mount Fuji, historical sites in Kyoto, the ancient capital Nara and many areas with outstanding historical, cultural and natural landscape values.
