UNESCO designated the Asuka and Fujiwara palace sites in Nara Prefecture as World Cultural Heritage sites on June 6 [3].

The decision recognizes the historical value of the sites regarding cultural exchanges with China and the Korean Peninsula, as well as their lasting influence on subsequent generations.

Celebrations spread throughout Nara Prefecture following the announcement. In Kashihara City, residents gathered for a public viewing of the decision, while the Kintetsu Department Store Kashihara branch hosted a traditional kagami-biraki ceremony to mark the occasion.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reacted to the news. "I am very happy that our country's precious cultural heritage has been recognized by the world," Takaichi said [3].

In Asuka Village, Mayor Yuichi Morikawa said the achievement was a result of overcoming significant obstacles. "It is no small thing. I could not have imagined it," Morikawa said. "I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for overcoming each hurdle to achieve World Heritage status."

Local residents also shared their joy, with some saying they were "happy" about the designation.

The addition of the Asuka and Fujiwara sites increases the total number of World Heritage sites within Nara Prefecture to four [1]. Nationally, the designation brings the total number of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Japan to 27 [2].

“"I am very happy that our country's precious cultural heritage has been recognized by the world,"”

The inclusion of the Asuka and Fujiwara palace sites reinforces Japan's narrative of early state formation and its historical integration into the broader East Asian cultural sphere. By securing this status, Nara Prefecture enhances its global tourism appeal and secures international recognition for the architectural and political foundations of the Japanese imperial system.