Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties (Nabunken)

Role and mission

Nabunken conducts basic and applied research that informs preservation policy and field practice. It examines materials and techniques used in historic objects, investigates archaeological sites associated with Japan's early capitals, documents endangered artworks and produces reference publications. The institute also provides training for conservators and curators, and develops documentary resources to support museums, local governments and academic researchers.

Typical activities

• Archaeological fieldwork and excavation of sites important to Japan's early history.
• Scientific analysis of pigments, fibers, ceramics and other materials to guide restoration.
• Conservation and restoration of paintings, sculptures, metalwork and manuscripts.
• Creation and maintenance of photographic archives, databases and catalogues to improve access and study.
• Publication of research reports, technical guidelines and training manuals.

The institute combines laboratory facilities, conservation studios and specialist libraries to support its multidisciplinary work. Conservators, archaeologists, materials scientists and document specialists collaborate on projects that range from delicate mural stabilization to large-scale surveys of historic urban layouts in the Nara region.

As an Independent Administrative Institution, Nabunken operates with a public mandate while maintaining research autonomy. It frequently partners with national museums, local cultural agencies, universities and international organizations to share expertise and participate in exhibitions, conservation campaigns and comparative studies.

Notable contributions include detailed technical studies that clarified traditional manufacturing methods, the development of conservation techniques tailored to Japanese materials and climate, and the digitization of rare documents and photographic collections to broaden scholarly and public access. Through research, training and outreach, Nabunken plays a central role in Japan's contemporary system for safeguarding cultural properties.