NARA -- The 72nd Annual Exhibition of Shoso-in Treasures kicked off Saturday at the Nara National Museum in Nara, showcasing a collection of masterpieces that symbolize Japanese culture of the Tenpyo era in the eighth century.
As part of measures against the novel coronavirus, visitors to this year's exhibition are required to buy their tickets in advance, reserving both the date and time of entry. The number of people inside the venue is limited to about 260 per hour.
On Saturday morning, people in masks, who had been waiting for the museum to open, entered the venue after having their temperature taken and disinfecting their hands.
The exhibition features 59 treasures, including four items that have never been exhibited before.
"Kasen" (Patterned Felt Rug) with a large, eye-catching flower pattern and "Heiradenhai no Enkyo" (Round Mirror with Mother-of-Pearl Design of Animals among Flowers), a white copper mirror with floral and bird designs decorated with small pieces of green snail shell and amber, are among them.
The items on display also include the medicines Empress Komyo dedicated to the statute of the Great Buddha of Todaiji temple in the Nara period (710-784) when epidemics afflicted the people, which helps visitors understand how the Tenpyo people fought against plagues.
"A large flower pattern looks really pretty on 'Kasen.' It was well-preserved, and I could tell the treasure had been carefully protected. I'm grateful for this opportunity to appreciate the treasures up close despite the pandemic," said a visitor from Yokohama, who saw the exhibition for the first time.
The Yomiuri Shimbun will provide special support to the annual exhibition.
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