Chapter 3. For the Protection and Utilization of Cultural Properties
�3 Promotion of the Preservation and Utilization of Cultural Properties
1. Tangible Cultural Properties
Tangible cultural properties are defined as those tangible cultural products (including lands or other items which, when taken as a whole gives the product value) which possess a high artistic or historical value in the eyes of the Japanese people, as well as archaeological materials and other historic materials of high scientific value.
Of these tangible cultural properties, the national government designates and protects important ones as Important Cultural Properties. Those considered especially valuable from the viewpoint of universal culture are designated and protected as National Treasures.