World Heritage Jasmine Ortiz

The World Heritage Convention Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, it was founded by 17th General Conference of UNESCO, in 1972 Its “purpose is to protect and preserve places and properties that are an irreplaceable part of the cultural heritage of all humanity. This includes notable historical and archeological sites, monuments, and groups of buildings as well as natural features, natural sites, geographical and physiographical” ”

Japan has 21 World Heritage Sites as of July 2017, the list consist of both historic building structures and natural sites. Each location has been preserved by UNESCO at different times leading up to most recently in 2017

Buddhist Temple found in the Nara Prefecture that dates back to 7th century Japan Hōryū-ji (1993) Holds some of the earliest Buddhist monuments in Japan Was once one of the seven great temples that held power Its main hall, inner gate and surrounding corridors are record as one of the worlds oldest wooden buildings dating back to the 7th century and later parts rebuilt in 8th century its design illustrates the adaption of Chinese Buddhist architecture.

Hijime-jo Castle (1993) Himeji-jo also known as Shirasagi Castle (White Egret) is located in the Hyogo prefecture. It is known for its tall, white elegance and is fine example of Japanese castle architecture that has survived its time Despite its beauty Hijime-Jo castle was home to a Military Stronghold that could easily defend against enemies The main compound is located on a hill and is 45 meters high, there are three rings surrounding the Castles outer compounds. The main donjon is roughly five stories high when looking on the outside but is seven stories on the inside.

Ogasawara Islands (2011) One of many natural sites Japan has to offer Over 30 islands in Pacific Ocean Only Chichijima and Hahajima. Of the 30 islands are inhabited Islands are ruled by subtropical forest and home to over 600 unique life forms that evolved with the location. “The islands serve as an outstanding example of the ongoing evolutionary processes in oceanic island ecosystems” - UNESCO

Yakushima (1993) Island in Kagoshima Prefecture Japans heaviest Rainfall Home to tallest mountain in the Kyushu region Thousand year old trees, such as the Jomon Sugi estimated to be 7,000 years old Sub-tropical area of Japan Home to the Ōko-no-taki waterfall.

Mount Fuji (2013) At 3,776 meters Mount Fuji is Japan's highest mountain, It is also one of Japans most Iconic symbols recognized by many Fuji is an active volcano that has not erupted since Edo era Japan (18 century) It has become the center of training for ascetic Buddhism in 12 century Fuji has brought inspiration to many such as poets, and artist through out the years, dating back to the 11 century and greatly influenced western art

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Dome (1996) “it, is a stark and powerful symbol of the achievement of world peace for more than half a century following the unleashing of the most destructive force ever created by humankind” Originally meant to be destroyed along with the rest of the ruins, but intact parts delayed it destruction Dome was subject of Controversy with some wanting it destroyed others wanted it preserved It was preserved in 1966 by Hiroshima city council and turned into a peace memorial Dome is now a primary landmark of Hiroshima

Itsukishima Shinto Shrine (1996) Located in Hiroshima Bay which is considered to be scared ground from ancient time Considered one of the 3 most beautiful sights in Japan Torri Gates stand at 160 meters Can still be seen when water rises and can be approached when water levels have decreased Shrines surrounding Torri also float above water

http://web-japan.org/factsheet/en/pdf/e35_heritage.pdf https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1362