Foreword
The Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties(TOBUNKEN) originated from the Japan Art Academy-affiliated Institute of Art Research, which was established in 1930. Presently, it is an unparalleled institute that comprehensively conducts investigation and research into cultural heritage, including intangible cultural properties, investigation and research into conservation science and restoration techniques, and international cooperation regarding cultural heritage.
TOBUNKEN cooperates with the Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Management Center, which was founded under the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage Secretariat and takes its important role as a core center for East Japan. We have the necessary facilities to fulfill our role to restore damaged cultural properties, including a freezer and a vacuum freeze-dryer. We continuously engage in research on conservation methods for cultural properties, including intangible cultural heritage, incorporating preventative and disaster mitigation perspectives.
Both tangible and intangible Cultural Properties were heavily and widely damaged by the Noto Earthquake that occurred on January 1, 2024. We will continue to work on the restoration of these damaged cultural properties.
We aim to operate our organization more efficiently and effectively, while striving to further develop it as a hub for comprehensive research and investigation and international cooperation in the protection of cultural properties. We would greatly appreciate your support and assistance.
SAITO
Takamasa Director General
Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties
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