ABSTRACT
Indeed, Monbukagakusho’s (2002) intention to add “universal” value to Japanese heritage is evident in its particular reference, under Policy Measure II-5, to UNESCO’s inclusion of eleven Japanese sites in its World Heritage List and proclamation of Noh (Japan’s traditional performing arts) as one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. UNESCO’s endorsement of Japanese heritage as “world heritage” and “heritage of humanity” gives instant validity to the claim that Japanese ‘culture’ has universal value. This strategy of deriving the civility and cultural authority of Japan from the universality and legitimacy of the United Nations is also apparent in Policy Measures III and IV.
