The actual conditions and results of “System for Local Heritage”

Abstract

Today, several local governments in Japan are making attempts to create their own local systems for the conservation and utilization of culture and nature. This study defines these systems as “Systems for Local Heritage” and aims to describe the characteristics and appraise the results of these systems. The Systems for Local Heritage of eight different regions are examined, and common features and differences are identified. The results show that one identified common feature is the importance ascribed to the opinions of the local communities. Furthermore, a difference was detected in the support of conservation and utilization of culture and nature, depending on the department in charge. The Systems for Local Heritage in five regions were found to be based on landscape planning. Three of these regions were selected as case studies of the effects of these systems. The results show that three Systems for Local Heritages had implemented the discovery of local heritage. However, the implementation of conservation and utilization was deemed not sufficient. Among the three case studies, Tono city is noticeable for its high level of involvement of the local residents. System management supporting the continuous involvement of local residents are deemed as beneficial for local heritage.