Nagoro: Valley of Dolls

What happens to a community when nearly everyone leaves? This course tells the powerful true story of Nagoro, a tiny village in rural Japan now home to just 25 people—and hundreds of handmade scarecrow dolls. Created by resident Ayano Tsukimi, the dolls stand in for lost neighbors and preserve the memory of a once-thriving community. Through her story, we explore themes of rural depopulation, community resilience, and the human need for connection. It’s a touching look at how creativity can keep history—and hope—alive.