Ogano Kabuki
event
Event Dates
Varies by performance
Ogano Kabuki is a community-based traditional performing art that began about 220 years ago, when the first-generation Bando Hikogoro introduced Edo Kabuki to the Ogano region. All aspects of the performances – from the actors and “gidayu” narrators, who tell stories to shamisen accompaniment, to the backstage crew – are carried out by local residents. A unique highlight of Ogano Kabuki is “Yatai Kabuki,” staged on festival floats.
In addition to regular performances at local festivals, the troupe performs across Japan, earning Ogano national recognition as a “kabuki town.” In recent years, children’s, youth, and women’s kabuki have thrived, with a strong focus on cultivating the next generation of performers.
Basic Information
Public transport: From Seibu Chichibu Line "Seibu-Chichibu Station," take the Seibu Kanko Bus bound for "Kurio" or "Ogano Soko" and get off at "Ogano Yakuba" (Town Hall)
By car: 35 minutes from the Hanazono IC
Map
Nearby spots
Founded in 1940 by Gensaku Asami, Chichibu Wine is the oldest winery in Saitama. Known for its award-winning wines and deep local roots, it gained early recognition when a French priest compared its wine to Bordeaux. Visitors can enjoy tastings and learn about the winemaking process on-site.
A long-established candy and confectionary manufacturer and distributor founded in 1864. “Chichibu Ame" (candy) is meticulously handcrafted the traditional way using carefully selected ingredients while retaining their original flavor and umami. Almost all of the products are additive-free, making it safe to eat for people of all ages.
Tours of the wine factory and vineyard, free samples and sale of wines at the in-house direct sales store, and meals at the company-owned restaurant (business days specified) are available.
Located in Chichibu Muse park's "Forest of Sports," this is a facility that anyone can enjoy regardless of age! In a mix of planted and native forests, seven zip lines have been installed high above the valley, making it one of the largest parks in Japan. The park is for adults and children aged 10 years and older. The courses are set at high altitudes making this forest adventure particularly popular among adults!
This park is situated in the rich nature of the Nagaonekyuryo mountains that straddle the border between Chichibu City and Ogano Town. This sprawling area of 375 hectares is divided into three themed zones, Forest of Sports, Forest of Music and Forest of Culture, with each area connected by a 3 km long "Sky Road." This park is best known as one of the best spots to view a breathtaking sea of clouds. The Chichibu area has the perfect conditions for a sea of clouds to form, due to the fog produced by radiative cooling in the Chichibu mountain area. If you get lucky, you may even be able to see the symbolic bridge of Chichibu appear to be floating above the clouds. Chichibu Muse Park has a variety of attractions, such as a music hall, an outdoor stage, Muse Fountain, a spacious garden, and sports facilities. Chichibu Muse Park is the perfect place to enjoy your day, surrounded by the beautiful changing seasons.