Sixteenth International Conference on the Arts in Society

Abstract

My paper is a response to the dearth of research on the impact of subnational factors in heritage diplomacy by comparing local and national narratives at controversial UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Japan. In addition to expanding on existing literature, the stated research goals include developing a new theoretical framework through which to better understand and analyze the role of local actors and actions in heritage diplomacy practice. The research was conducted on-site in western and southwestern Japan in 2019-20, and utilizes a qualitative methodology rooted in content and narrative analysis. Of the many conclusions drawn, the most significant finding stresses the importance of consistent heritage messaging at the local and national level as a key factor in establishing and maintaining credibility for heritage diplomacy strategies conducted on the international stage.