Did You Know a Japanese Village Has More Dolls Than People? The Eerie Charm of Nagoro. Japan’s rural population has been shrinking for decades—so sharply, in fact, that the 20 ...

It’s roughly divided into two regions: Nishi-Iya, a more accessible region along the great Yoshino River, and Oku-Iya (also Higashi-Iya), one of the deepest and most secluded parts of Japan.

Japan’s countryside offers a serene escape from the fast-paced city life. With its peaceful landscapes, traditional villages, and untouched cultural heritage, these hidden gems provide an authentic ...