The Conservation of Historic and Cultural Resources in Rural Japan

Abstract

The modernization of Japan, which has occurred almost entirely during the post-World War II era, has contributed to significant landscape change throughout much of the country. To counteract the erosion of their long and rich heritage, the Japanese, in addition to preserving major monuments, gardens, and buildings, have begun to devote attention to the conservation of cultural landscapes in rural areas. A general overview of conservation activities in Japan is offered to illustrate these developments; this survey is followed by five case studies that provide insight to specific settings, processes, and results.