Japan’s Asuka-Fujiwara Sites Added to UNESCO World Heritage List, Highlighting Cultural Significance
The UNESCO World Heritage Committee has inscribed Japan's Asuka-Fujiwara archaeological sites on the World Heritage List as a cultural property. This decision, made during the committee's meeting in Busan, South Korea, marks Japan's 22nd cultural World Heritage site. The Asuka-Fujiwara sites, located in Nara Prefecture, consist of 19 archaeological sites from the sixth to eighth centuries, associated with the ancient imperial capitals of Asuka and Fujiwara. These sites demonstrate historical exchanges with China and Korea and the introduction of Buddhism, which significantly influenced Japanese culture. The sites also provide evidence of the formation of ancient capitals in East Asia. 
