By Countryside of Japan[福井++]

In this short yet evocative video, the channel 'Countryside of Japan[福井++]' takes viewers on a somber stroll through the ruins of Nagatani (永谷) — an abandoned village located in Fukui Prefecture. Known as Nagatani Haiku (永谷廃村), this once-inhabited settlement now lies in decay, overtaken by nature, yet still echoing stories of the past. The video provides a rare visual window into a forgotten chapter of rural Japanese history, giving viewers a concise but impactful experience of what life might have once been like in this elusive village before its abandonment.

The term '廃村' (haison) refers to a depopulated or abandoned village, and Nagatani is a textbook example of such rural decline. Once a thriving mountainside community, the village gradually emptied due to urban migration, economic hardship, and a rapidly aging population — a trend not uncommon in Japan's remote regions. Overgrown paths, crumbling houses, and moss-covered structures hint at the lives once lived here.

Fukui Prefecture, located along the Sea of Japan in the Chubu region, is known for its scenic coastlines, historical temples, and cultural heritage sites. But hidden within its lush countryside lies a different story — that of communities like Nagatani vanishing into the forest. Videos like this play a vital role in preserving the memory of such places, especially as time slowly erases their physical footprints.

For those looking to delve deeper, the channel also offers a full-length version of the video at the provided link, capturing more detail and ambiance of the site. These visuals not only cater to urban explorers and history buffs but also raise broader questions about Japan's demographic changes and the preservation of rural heritage.