International Exchange/Cooperation of Cultural Properties
Preventing Outflow of Cultural Properties
Export Permit for Antiques
The Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties and related laws prohibit the export of National Treasures, Important Cultural Properties, and authorized properties including important fine arts as a rule. In order to prevent the unintended outflow of cultural properties that are invaluable assets for the people of Japan, and to prompt the customs clearance process, antique fine arts to be exported must have accompanying certificates to show that they are not designated by the government as National Treasures, Important Cultural Properties, or similar important fine arts. This certificate is called Kobijutsuhin yushutsu kansa shomei and is issued by the Agency for Cultural Affairs. When you export antique art work, please understand the purpose of this system as described above, and file an application after reading the Guidelines. Click here for more information (in Japanese).
Contact
Cultural Properties Department, Agency for Cultural Affairs
