The Kyoto Imperial Palace has unveiled a unique exhibition featuring its main ceremonial hall before it goes through renovation work. The restoration of Shishinden, the most important part of the palace is expected to take up to nine years. The building has been a participant of events like the enthronement of the emperor and played a significant role in the history of the country.
Once renovation is done, visitors will lose the possibility to access this structure, which makes the exhibition that much more important.
A Rare Look Inside Japan’s Imperial Heritage
Shishinden was rebuilt in 1855 after its predecessor was consumed by fire. The exhibition allows attendees to see the hall from the garden situated nearby.
Among other things, visitors will get a chance to check out the Takamikura, the throne that has been used in imperial enthronement ceremonies. Another exhibit of note is Michodai, the empress’s ceremonial seat.
The exhibition will also feature sculpture-like guardians which used to serve as the symbol of the importance and prestige of Shishinden.
This exhibition of precious artifacts provides the audience with a unique glimpse into Japan’s customs and traditions that have been maintained through centuries.
Hundreds of People Line Up for Their Last Chance
There was plenty of interest in the exhibition from early morning hours, with around 260 individuals waiting in line prior to its opening.
Imamura, who works at the Kyoto branch of the Imperial Household Agency, was pleasantly surprised at the exceptionally large number of visitors on a weekday.
“I have never seen such a line of people during a weekday before,” Imamura said.
He asked the public to use this opportunity to see the objects before they are sent for restoration since people will not be able to see the Shishinden close after the restoration work starts.
This increased attendance speaks volumes of the local imperial culture and the fact that chances to see certain parts of the palace closely are rare.
Nine-Year Rehabilitation Work of the Historic Hall
The renovation process will see the changing of the old traditional cypress bark roofing that is conventionally replaced after around 30 years.
Additionally, the renovation will ensure the enhancement of disaster protection equipment and conduct tests for earthquake resilience.
The above-mentioned steps are aimed at ensuring conservation of the historic building.
While the works are being carried out, the Shishinden will be covered with a shelter allowing protecting it from wind and rain. Although it is an essential part of the decoration process, the shelter will limit the opportunity for visitors to come closely to the building.
Keeping Alive the Imperial Heritage of Japan
The project that lasts for nine years reveals the complexities of conservation of historic buildings in the face of aging and other disasters.
In Kyoto, the autumn exhibition gives people a unique opportunity to see the hall of Shishinden in all its architectural splendor and many ceremonial items before long restoration work starts.
Even though Shishinden is one of the prominent buildings of the Imperial Palace in Kyoto, its renovation will not only preserve the prestigious feature for young generations but will also restrict visits to the building for many years ahead.
