As you may have heard, one of the most talked-about films in Japan this year is Kokuhou (“National Treasure”), based on the novel by Shuichi Yoshida. I heard that at the Cannes Film Festival the film even received a standing ovation, and in Japan it is said to have surpassed 11 billion yen in box office revenue, ranking as the second highest-grossing live-action film in Japanese history. With such news, many of you may have already come across the title.
The story draws us into the world of kabuki, a traditional Japanese performing art performed exclusively by men. One of its most fascinating features is the onnagata, male actors who specialize in female roles, often regarded as the highest artistic peak of kabuki. Kokuhou explores this tradition, portraying the artistry and dedication behind it.
What makes the title itself especially meaningful is that Japan has a unique system of designating “Living National Treasures” – artists whose mastery of cultural heritage is officially recognized and protected by the state. While many countries protect monuments and historic sites, Japan also honors individuals, acknowledging their role in carrying traditions forward.
The film Kokuhou raises broader questions about how Japan seeks to preserve its culture. As the film will be released internationally, it will be interesting to see how this Japanese system of cultural recognition is received abroad.
At a Kyoto-based law firm, we focus on renewable energy projects while also supporting cultural and artistic fields. Just as energy requires a stable legal framework, cultural heritage also depends on systems that safeguard its future. We are committed to contributing to both!