Cultural heritage refers to the body of practices, expressions, knowledge, and objects that communities, groups, or societies deem important to their identity, history, and values. It encompasses both tangible and intangible elements. Tangible cultural heritage includes physical artifacts such as buildings, monuments, works of art, and artifacts that possess historical, aesthetic, or archaeological significance. Intangible cultural heritage includes traditions, languages, folklore, performing arts, and social practices that are passed down through generations and reflect the cultural identity of a community.
Cultural heritage serves as a connection between the past and present, helping individuals understand their origins and cultural context. It plays a crucial role in fostering community cohesion, pride, and continuity while contributing to social and economic development through tourism and education. Preservation and appreciation of cultural heritage are essential for maintaining diversity and promoting understanding among different cultures. Efforts to safeguard cultural heritage are often supported by international conventions, such as UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, which aim to protect sites considered of outstanding value to humanity.
Japan's forests, covering 67% of the land, face neglect due to socioeconomic changes, imported timber, and loss of forestry labor. Unmanaged forests increase risks of soil erosion and landslides, impacting…