Ogawa Washi Learning Center
experiences
Experience 1,300 Years of Washi Paper History
The Ogawa Washi Learning Center is a historical building constructed in 1936 for the study of washi paper, and is a place where craftspeople can learn and practice papermaking. Papermaking experiences are available for visitors with an advance reservation.
*Brochures in English and Chinese are available, but staff explanations are in Japanese only, so if you need an interpreter, please contact the Saitama Tourism Support Desk.
Each papermaking session is carefully guided by an experienced washi craftsperson. You’ll learn the fundamental techniques and use them to craft your own paper by hand, making for an unforgettable travel keepsake.
In the Exhibition Room, visitors can delve into the rich history of Hosokawa paper, designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. With a legacy dating back 1,300 years, washi is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and serves various purposes, including art restoration. Learn the techniques, unchanged for centuries, and see the plant fibers used to make the paper. There are also artworks showcasing the versatility of washi through several creative expressions.
The raw material for washi is the bark of the Japanese paper mulberry, called “kozo” in Japanese. During the harvesting season (late November to January), visitors can observe craftspeople manually peeling and washing the bark at the Ogawa Washi Learning Center. You can also see other important processes, such as boiling bark to soften the fibers. If the timing aligns, we highly recommend witnessing these traditions firsthand.
Basic Information
Business hours / Fee
Fee :￥5,000
Content : Classroom lecture (explanation of materials, etc.), plain mulberry paper (5 sheets), papermaking, iron plate drying, etc. (paper sourced from local mulberry trees)
Note : Completed paper can be taken home on the same day. In the case of a small number of applications, you may experience the course with other applicants.
How to get there
Map
Nearby spots
Experience the art of traditional Japanese washi paper making at the Traditional Crafts Facility, located within the newly renovated Roadside Station Ogawamachi. A variety of hands-on workshops are available, offering a fun and engaging activity for both children and adults, using authentic tools and techniques.
For groups of 10 or more, advance reservations are required. Please contact the Saitama Tourism Support Desk for assistance.
Please note: On-site English support is not available. If needed, please arrange your own interpreter or translator.
There are different varieties of Japanese sake, and the taste of each depends on many different factors. The Mikadomatsu sake brewed at Matsuoka Brewery relies on the mineral-rich natural water of Ogawa-machi, perfectly suited for sake brewing, and rice carefully selected from all over Japan, which together with superior techniques handed down over generations of brewers, result in this exquisite sake. On this brewery tour, you can observe the meticulous sake-making process and taste the aromatic and delicious brews of Matsuoka Brewery. *Children may enjoy the high-quality mineral-rich water used to brew sake, drawn from 130 meters underground.
Experience the thrill of rafting just two-hours away from Tokyo! Dive into this 7-kilometer long adventure, navigating the exciting rapids that run through the majestic Chichibu Red Cliffs and the unique natural monument of Iwadatami, in this experience exclusive to Nagatoro. The term "Iwadatami" translates to "rock tatami" or "rock platform" and refers to the natural formation of rocks, resembling traditional Japanese tatami mats, that are the key scenic spot along the river. Our certified Rafting Association of Japan Guides, a.k.a RAJ Guides, ensure a safe, secure, and enjoyable journey. This 3-hour escapade includes photo data to capture unforgettable moments. The tour content changes daily based on the water levels, and each day brings new and unpredictable thrills! You'll never know what excitement awaits you, making every outing a unique and exhilarating experience. Don't worry if you don't speak much Japanese, as English speaking RAJ Guides are also available to make sure the adventure is as enjoyable as it is memorable!
The Chichibu Night Festival boasts a rich history spanning approximately 300 years. It is renowned as one of Japan's three major float festivals and earned its place on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2017.
Why not immerse yourself in the allure of this historic festival? At its heart are six splendid floats, with the float-pulling experience being the most cherished aspect. This unique opportunity allows you to join hands with locals in moving the exquisite floats, dating back to the 1700s, creating unforgettable memories.
Knowledgeable guides are available to share fascinating tales about the Chichibu region and the Chichibu Night Festival in multiple languages. Discover the festival's stories that resonate in every nook and cranny of this vibrant community, gaining insight into the profound connection between Chichibu's residents and the festival.
Furthermore, you can enhance your festival experience by delving into the background of how the people of Chichibu have coexisted harmoniously with this grand tradition. As an added bonus, you'll receive original tenugui (hand towels) and work gloves as souvenirs during the float-pulling activity.
The event will be held only on December 2, 2025 (Tuesday)
Experience the Chichibu Night Festival, one of Japan’s most famous traditional festivals, located just a short trip from Tokyo. Join locals in Chichibu to help pull historic floats, some dating back to the 1700s and decorated with sparkling gold leaf. As night falls, the floats become stages for an exclusive Kabuki performance by local actors, offering a rare chance to experience authentic Japanese culture up close. This Chichibu festival near Tokyo is a unique cultural experience you won’t want to miss!