Dolly Parton's Japan connection

When my household heard about Dolly Parton's passing, my husband (who is American, but spent a big chunk of time growing up here) reminded me of an unexpected connection she once had with Japan. She almost had her own Dollywood theme park here!

Having lived in Japan for years now, I can picture how fun this would've been. I've been to Dolly Parton's Stampede in Branson, Missouri in the US, and that was an enjoyable slice of Americana. Japan also has quite a few "American" vibes areas (American Village in Okinawa, the American-feeling areas outside military bases here), so I think it would have been a good fit and provided a bit of nostalgia.

Obviously, it never materialized, but I think it's a lovely little piece of Dolly's history with Japan to remember!