Educational Heritage Sites of Early Modern Japan Under Review

Ashikaga School, one of the Educational Heritage Sites of Early Modern Japan in Ashikaga City

The Agency for Cultural Affairs has announced a re-examination of the Educational Heritage Sites of Early Modern Japan, including Ashikaga School in Tochigi Prefecture, sparking concerns among city officials. Superintendent of Education Oshima Kazuhiko expressed confusion and disappointment, stating, “This happened so suddenly, and I’m completely unable to accept it. We will be asking the national government for an explanation.”

Japan Heritage, established in 2015, certifies tangible and intangible cultural assets by theme or region. The Educational Heritage of Early Modern Japan is the first certified site, comprising four early modern educational facilities: Ashikaga School, the former Kodokan (Mito City), the former Shizutani School (Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture), and the ruins of Kangien Garden (Hita City, Oita Prefecture).

The Educational Heritage World Heritage Registration Promotion Council, consisting of four cities, submitted a regional revitalization plan to the Agency for Cultural Affairs in March. However, the plan is now being re-examined due to insufficient efforts and a decline in visitor numbers. A senior official of the city’s Board of Education explained, “We were informed that the number of visitors has not returned to the level at the time of the designation and that efforts are insufficient.”

Unlike World Heritage sites, Japan Heritage sites aim to promote tourism and revitalize local areas. The Agency for Cultural Affairs’ decision appears to have deviated from its original intentions.

The council plans to undergo an on-site inspection and exchange of opinions with the Agency for Cultural Affairs in October. A decision will be made by the end of the year on whether to grant certification, grant conditional certification, or revoke the certification.