Nestled in Japan’s remote Iya Valley, Nagoro is no ordinary village. On first glance, you might spot elderly residents tending gardens or families waiting at bus stops. But look closer-and most of these “people” aren’t human. They are life-sized scarecrows, outnumbering the village’s 27 human residents ten-to-one.

These unique figures are the creation of Tsukimi Ayano, a crafts hobbyist who returned to Nagoro in 2002 after years in Osaka. What began as practical scarecrows for farmland has transformed into a heartfelt memorial project. Ayano crafts dolls resembling former neighbors and departed villagers, keeping the community’s memory alive.

Visitors can explore scarecrows “living” everyday lives-construction workers fixing signs, couples sitting by the river, or children attending the village’s former school, now an unofficial scarecrow museum.

For enthusiasts, Ayano hosts Scarecrow-Making Workshops every fourth Wednesday from April to November. Her creations, lasting about three years, ensure Nagoro’s spirit endures. Ayano says, “As long as I’m healthy, I’d like to stay in Nagoro, and continue making the scarecrows.”

Nagoro is now a global attraction, blending creativity, remembrance, and a touch of the uncanny.