The Ancient Temples and Shrines Preservation Law was passed, instituting the protection of structures and artifacts in Japan designated National Treasures.

National Treasure refers to Tangible Cultural Properties designated by modern Japanese law as having exceptionally high value. Specifically, the term applies to buildings, artworks, and crafts selected from among Important Tangible Cultural Properties by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, a special body of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.