The Nara National Museum (formerly the Imperial Museum of Nara) celebrates its 130th anniversary in 2025 to mark its opening on April 29, 1895. To commemorate this occasion, The Nara National Museum holds its first-ever full-scale exhibition of National Treasures entitled “Oh! KOKUHŌ: Resplendent Treasures of Devotion and Heritage.”

             Kokuhō refer to well-known National Treasures that represent Japan’s collective history and culture. This exhibition reflects upon the history of Nara National Museum and its past exhibitions of kokuhō, as well as Buddhist and Shinto works that have been specially selected. These objects reflect our ancestor’s fervent devotion, and we feel a profound sense of gratitude for those who created, protected, and passed these objects down to the present. This special exhibition encompasses not only a selection of these superb artifacts, but “super treasures” that transcend the mundane and convey the hopes of the previous generations and survive today because of the dedication of the many individuals who preserve our cultural heritage, who are themselves irreplaceable treasures. Amid the worldwide turmoil brought about by wars and disasters, we hope this exhibition brings even a small sense of reverence to each person who visits.

              As we transcend 130 years of history and reflect on the aspirations of our predecessors who created these National Treasures, we invite you to witness Nara National Museum embark on its new journey to pass the torch of culture to future generations.

              Lastly, beginning with those who lent us their precious artifacts for this exhibition, we extend our profound gratitude to all those who made this exhibition possible.