Deep in the mountains of Shikoku lies Iya, which is home to a few small settlements. The steep, narrow and misty valley is the stuff of lore. In the 12th century it was a haven for fugitive Heike ...

Deep in the mountains of Shikoku-the smallest of Japan's major islands-the Iya Valley's terraced farm plots, thatched-roof cottages, and largely uninhabited forest preserve a piece of ancient Japan.