ancient texts (59), 567 archeological items (43) and 154 historical items (2) were designated Important Cultural Properties or National Treasures Any intervention on this type of Cultural Property requires previous approval and their exportation is forbidden, except when authorized. The National Treasury supports the conservation and restoration of these items, and the Commissioner for Cultural Affairs provides technical assistance for their administration, restoration, public display and other activities. Registered Tangible Cultural Properties Besides the designation system there exists a , which guarantees a lower level of protection and support. So far there this category includes 7407 buildings and 9 works of fine arts and crafts. Compared to designated Important Cultural Properties and National Treasures, entail fewer responsibilities for the owner. Loss, damage, change of ownership and intended changes that affect more than 25 percent of the visible surface need to be announced. On the other hand, the owner is eligible for low interest loans for maintenance and repairs, subsidies for an architect and tax reductions of up to 50 percent. This new protection level is based on notification, guidance, and advice, and aims at voluntary protection of cultural properties by their owners. See also For lists of National Treasures of Japan, see Lists of National Treasures of Japan Cultural Properties of Japan Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji and Otsu Cities) Lists of Cultural Properties of the Philippines Notes References Bibliography External links Introduction to Cultural Properties, Agency for Cultural Affairs Cultural Properties of Japan National Treasures of Japan Japanese culture