Chapter 3. For the Protection and Utilization of Cultural Properties
�4 The Role of Science and Technology in Protecting Cultural Properties
1 Promotion of Cultural Property Conservation Science
(2) Nara National Research Institute of Cultural Properties
The Nara National Research Institute of Cultural Properties includes the Department of Architectural History, the Department of History, the Division of Heijo Palace Sites Investigations, the Division of Asuka/Fuiiwara Palace Sites Investigations, the Asuka Historical Museum and the Center for Archaeological Operations, all of which are engaged in study concerning investigation, preservation and utilization of fixed cultural properties. In1993, the institute began restoration work on the ancient Heijo Palace site's Suzaku-mon Gate. It is also continuing survey and research work for the restoration of the Former Great Hall of the State Sector. The Asuka Historical Museum is engaged in the dissemination of information concerning the historic significance of the Asuka district and in the exhibition of cultural properties unearthed in the Asuka district. The Center for Archaeological Operations gives scientific and technical guidance and advice, and conducts in-service training of personnel in charge of local governments.
In addition to the above-mentioned activities, the institute organizes open lectures in spring and autumn, and occasionally holds explanatory onsite meetings concerning the results of excavation and research. It also conducts international exchange with various countries in an endeavor to enrich research in the areas of conservation and restoration of cultural properties. Exchanges are taking place, for example, in such forms as basic research surveys relating to the conservation and care taking of South Asian Buddhist sites, and joint study of groups of tombs in Pazyryk in Russia (cf. Part 1, Chanter 4. Section 3).
