Nagoro Village of Scarecrows, “Kakashi no Sato”

In the most remote depths of Iya Valley, you can hear gentle whispers of the past…
 

The village of Nagoro had slipped into shadow, merely an echo of its tight-knit community of people who once lived here, working on the dam. But when Tsukimi Ayano returned to her hometown after long years living in Osaka and found the population dwindling, little by little, she began crafting dolls in remembrance of the village’s former residents.

 

Now, Nagoro’s been revived with over 350 characters, all handmade by Ms. Ayano, who live alongside the 27 human residents. Each scarecrow has been thoughtfully placed in the environment--farming, doing construction work, waiting for the bus, climbing trees. What’s more, Ms. Ayano has filled the old school with her creations, as well, just waiting to welcome visitors. ☺️

You can also buy some handcrafted souvenirs like dolls and pottery around the village, all made by Ms. Ayano herself! ✨

 

Online reservation

[Private car included] Tour of Oku-Iya - a thousand years, a hidden hamlet (6 hours)