This section introduces some of the archives, libraries and museums in Tokyo that hold Japanese historical documents.*
*Note.
Official documents (kobunsho 公文書): documents created by civil servants in the course of their duties since the Meiji era (1868 onwards).
Private documents (shibunsho 私文書): documents created by individuals after the Meiji era (1868 onwards). Diaries, letters, etc.
Old documents (komonjo 古文書): official and private documents created before the Edo period (before 1868).
Classical books (kotenseki 古典籍): books published before the Edo period. Japanese books (washo 和書), Chinese books (kansho 漢書), etc.
National Diet Library
This institution is under the jurisdiction of the Diet. It holds books, journals and articles published in Japan, as well as many valuable old documents and classic books. In addition, the Japan Search allows cross-searching of digital archives managed by Japanese archives, libraries and museums. However, not all archives participate in this site.
National Archives of Japan
This institution is under the jurisdiction of the Cabinet Office. It holds official documents created by the Japanese Government. In addition to official documents, the archives also hold old documents and classical books inherited from the Edo Shogunate.
Imperial Household Archives
This institution is under the jurisdiction of the Imperial Household Agency. It holds official documents created by the Imperial Household Agency. In addition, Tosho-ryo (Imperial Archives Bureau) holds old documents and classical books inherited by the Imperial Household.
Diplomatic Archives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
This institution holds official documents produced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Digital images of historical documents are available from the Japan Center for Asian Historical Records.
Defence Research Institute Centre for Military History, Ministry of Defence
This institution is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Defence. It holds official documents produced by the former Japanese Army and Navy, as well as private documents donated by individuals. Digital images of historical documents are available from the Japan Center for Asian Historical Records.
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