It is the title granted in Japan to some masters both as regards the manual arts (e.g.: ukiyo-e, art on paper, sword and ceramic making), or those of acting traditions (e.g.: bunraku, kabuki and various traditional festivals the matsuri).

The title is issued to masters or particular categories and associative subjects to preserve the techniques and artistic skills that could be lost over time. This would be a great pity not only for Japan but for world culture.