ABSTRACT
This chapter examines two cases of Japanese participation in cultural heritage projects in Vietnam, namely the involving an example of tangible and the intangible cultural heritage. It traces recent projects funded by Japan involving the plan for reconstructing the Can Chanh Palace and the conservation approach that Japanese cultural aid has promoted. The discussion of both projects reveals how Japanese aid has influenced Vietnam's practice and the national system for safeguarding its cultural heritage while also supporting the process of portraying Vietnam's national identity. The chapter investigates the efforts undertaken to protect Nha Nhac, and so to further understand the nature and extent of the Japanese financial and technical assistance in protecting Vietnam's heritage. Vietnam is one of the first Asian countries after Japan and Korea to establish a national system to protect intangible cultural heritage. The chapter explores in detail the role of Japanese cultural diplomacy.
