Japanese Village Becomes Tourist Attraction with Hundreds of Life-Sized Scarecrows
Nagoro, a village on Shikoku Island, has an estimated 30 residents and over 350 scarecrows, drawing visitors seeking a unique experience.
Nagoro village, located in the mountainous Tokushima Prefecture on Japan's Shikoku Island, has become an unusual tourist destination, often referred to as 'Scarecrow Village.' The village population has dwindled significantly, with an estimated 30 human inhabitants, vastly outnumbered by approximately 350 life-sized scarecrows.
The phenomenon began about 30 years ago when local resident Tsukimi Ayano created a scarecrow for her field using her father's clothes. Inspired by the scarecrow's lifelike appearance, she began crafting more figures, dressing them in various outfits and posing them in everyday activities. Other residents joined her, contributing to the growing collection of dolls that now populate the village.
Scarecrows of all sizes and ages are displayed throughout Nagoro. Visitors can find figures dressed as farmers in fields, cyclists wearing helmets, and even child-sized dolls with toys or tricycles. An elementary school, now closed due to the declining number of children, features scarecrows seated at desks.
The village's unique appeal has attracted visitors from across Japan and abroad. A baby has not been born in Nagoro for over 20 years, and the scarecrows have brought a new sense of life and activity to the area. Ms. Ayano noted that the increased number of visitors has made the town feel very lively.
Former Top Gear host James May visited Nagoro while filming his series 'James May: Our Man in Japan,' highlighting the village's distinctive character.
Google reviews describe the village as 'extraordinary' and 'eerily peaceful,' with visitors recommending a car with GPS for easier access due to its remote location. Some reviews also mention a workshop where visitors can create their own scarecrows.