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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Ogaki.
Beneath the beauty of cherry blossom trees, lies a city in Japan that beckons to be explored.
Ogaki, the land of vast greenery and rich cultural heritage, is not just a destination but an experience.
From immersing in the art of tea-making to wandering through its historic streets, Ogaki offers an array of activities that will leave an indelible mark in your heart.
So, tuck your worries away and embrace the enchanting journey that awaits you in Ogaki.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ogaki:
1. Ogaki Castle
Ogaki Castle is a historic castle located in Ogaki, Gifu Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the castle grounds and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Take a tour of the castle to learn about its history and significance, or visit the nearby museums to learn more about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll through the nearby castle town, where you can admire traditional Japanese architecture and sample local cuisine.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during the spring or fall for the most favorable weather and stunning seasonal foliage. Consider bringing a comfortable pair of walking shoes, as the castle grounds can be quite expansive.
Additionally, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can result in fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.
2. Sawayama Castle Ruins
Sawayama Castle Ruins is a historical site located on Mount Kinka in Ogaki, Japan. The ruins are the remains of a spectacular castle that was built during the 16th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the former castle grounds and ruins, including the impressive stone walls and various gates. From the top of the castle ruins, you can see stunning views of Ogaki and beyond.
Don’t miss: The “ishiotoshi” or “stone drop” gate is one of the main attractions at the castle ruins. This gate was designed to drop stones onto invaders trying to break through the entrance.
Another must-see is the restored castle gate, which was previously destroyed during war.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to visit during cherry blossom season in the spring or autumn foliage season when the colors of the leaves change.
Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb to reach the top. Additionally, the castle ruins offer a spectacular view of the star-filled sky at night.
3. Ogaki City Traditional Industry Hall
The Ogaki City Traditional Industry Hall is a museum that showcases the traditional crafts and industries of the city.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits that feature a variety of local handicrafts including Japanese paper, bamboo crafts, traditional Japanese knives, and more.
In addition, there are workshops available for visitors to experience the process of making some of these crafts firsthand.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the exhibits that showcase the history and cultural significance of each of the crafts. Be sure to take a stroll through the beautiful garden outside the museum.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in taking a workshop, be sure to book in advance to reserve your spot. The museum also has a gift shop where you can purchase unique souvenirs and gifts made by local artisans.
4. Ogaki Shrine
A Shinto Shrine located in Ogaki City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the torii gate and the main hall of the shrine. The shrine is also home to an impressive ginkgo tree that is over 1,000 years old.
Don’t miss: The annual festival held on May 5th where locals carry a mikoshi (portable shrine) through the streets.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a slight hike to reach the shrine. Take time to stroll around the lush surrounding forest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
5. Okinaga Trail
Okinaga Trail is a picturesque hiking trail located in the lush forests of Ogaki, Japan.
What to see or do: Hikers can enjoy a 4.8-kilometer loop trail that winds through towering trees, crystal clear streams, and cascading waterfalls.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking views of Mt. Kinka from the trail’s lookout points.
Insider travel tips: – Bring comfortable hiking shoes and suitable clothing as the trail can get steep and slippery.
6. Ogaki Siesta
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7. Ogaki City Folklore Museum
A museum dedicated to the history, culture and folklore of Ogaki city in Gifu, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the exhibits displaying the traditional crafts, music and clothing of the area. Admire the local artwork and read about the interesting folklore tales of the city.
Don’t miss: The exhibit displaying the mechanical dolls that were once used as maids in wealthy households. These life-size dolls can move and perform household tasks like pouring tea and writing letters.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least an hour in the museum to get a thorough understanding of the local culture.
8. Ogaki Ring Park
A popular park in Ogaki city, Japan featuring a large ring-shaped observation deck.
What to see or do: Enjoy a relaxing walk on the tree-lined paths and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding city and mountains from the observation deck.
There are also various playgrounds and sports facilities, including a skate park and tennis courts.
Don’t miss: The stunning nighttime view of the observation deck, which is illuminated with blue LED lights.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park during the cherry blossom season to see the beautiful pink blossoms in full bloom, or bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon under the trees.
Parking can be quite limited, so consider taking public transportation or walking to the park if possible.
9. Joyful Honda Ogaki
A large department store in Ogaki, Japan, with a variety of shopping and dining options.
What to see or do: Browse through the 11 floors of shopping, which include fashion, electronics, cosmetics, and home goods. Grab a bite to eat in the extensive food court or one of the numerous restaurants.
Don’t miss: Check out the rooftop garden and enjoy the view of Ogaki city while taking a break from shopping.
Insider travel tips: Visit during sale seasons for great deals, and make sure to download the Joyful Honda app for exclusive coupons and discounts.
Also, purchase tax-free items if you’re a foreign visitor and spend over 5,000 yen.
10. Kasamatsu Park
A public park located on the top of the Kasamatsu Mountain that provides a beautiful panoramic view of Ogaki City.
What to see or do: Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the picturesque gardens, appreciate the colorful seasonal foliage, and take in the panoramic views of the city.
There are also walking paths and a small playground for children.
Don’t miss: Enjoy the stunning views of cherry blossoms in the spring, vibrant hues of red and orange foliage in fall and the sparkling night view of Ogaki city.
Insider travel tips: Visitors can take a cable car to reach the top of Kasamatsu Mountain for a fee. It is best to visit the park during weekdays as it can get crowded on weekends and public holidays.
Additionally, there is a small café in the park that offers delicious snacks and refreshments, it’s a must-visit place!
11. Ogaki City Art Museum
The Ogaki City Art Museum is a contemporary art museum located in Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum features a variety of exhibitions showcasing works by both Japanese and international artists. The permanent collection includes over 700 works primarily focused on contemporary Japanese art.
Don’t miss: The museum’s outdoor sculpture garden is a must-see, featuring unique and thought-provoking sculptures by various artists.
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12. Chausuyama Park
Chausuyama Park is a picturesque park located in Ogaki City, Japan. It is situated at the base of Chausuyama Mountain and covers an area of around 124 hectares.
What to see or do: The park features a beautiful Japanese garden with a pond, a cherry blossom grove, a children’s playground, and various walking trails.
Visitors can enjoy hiking up to the top of Chausuyama Mountain and taking in breathtaking views of the city.
Don’t miss: The cherry blossom grove is a must-see, especially during the spring months when the trees are in full bloom. The garden’s pond, which is stocked with koi fish, offers a serene setting for visitors to relax.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day exploring the park.
If you’re interested in photography, plan to visit during the golden hour just before sunset to get stunning shots of the mountain and the garden.
13. Oshibe Park
A small park located in the center of Ogaki City, Japan.
What to see or do: Stroll around and enjoy the relaxing scenery of cherry blossoms and lush greenery. Visitors can also participate in various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Ogaki Castle Festival in October.
Don’t miss: The iconic stone statue of the “oshibe” (spiny lobster) that gave the park its name. It’s a popular spot for taking photos, particularly during cherry blossom season.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch under the cherry blossom trees.
14. Hida Furukawa Folk Village
A charming open-air museum showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and way of life, located in the heart of Hida Furukawa.
What to see or do: Stroll through the historic village, admire the local wooden buildings with thatched roofs, explore the exhibits showcasing household items, tools, and crafts of the past, attend a workshop to learn traditional techniques, and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to try your hand at making your own soba noodles or washi paper, or to sample local produce at the farmers’ market.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
Consider visiting during the winter months to see the village covered in snow, or in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
A visit to the nearby Hida Takayama old town is a great addition to your trip.