Message from the Director

Since January 2025 I have been serving as the director of the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre, Shizuoka. The Centre was opened in December 2017 as the research and interpretation center in Shizuoka Prefecture for the World Heritage site, Fujisan Sacred Place and Source of Artistic Inspiration. The Centre aims to deepen the research on Mt. Fuji and to disseminate information about its value domestically and internationally, contributing to the protection of the site for years to come. I have inherited the legacy and thoughts of former director Atsuko Toyama, who worked for the consolidation of the Centre for the past seven years since its opening. Following her achievement I will also continue my effort to contribute to the protection of Mt. Fuji, to pass it on to future generations.

I have been involved in World Heritage work since Japan joined the World Heritage Convention in 1992. The linkage of nature and culture, or the history of people living in harmony with nature, is what we international experts think is the most important message of the World Heritage Convention. Mt. Fuji is considered the most representative World Heritage site that symbolizes this. The distinctive silhouette of Mt. Fuji, rising majestically without any visual intrusion, has a powerful impact on the hearts of all who see it. People are amazed, awed, and moved in the presence of such a great natural entity. This nurtures a spirit of faith and has given rise to appreciation of Japan’s wonderful art and culture recognized around the world.

One cannot understand how profoundly Mt. Fuji has influenced Japanese culture just by climbing or viewing the mountain. I hope you will visit the Centre, learn about Mt. Fuji, and come away with a new depth of feeling about its value. I appreciate your continued understanding and warm support.

Nobuko Inaba, Director, Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre, Shizuoka