Yokoze(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Ogase, the most affordable and authentic stay is Ogaseya Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn located near the Ogase River and Ancient Tombs. This family-run guesthouse offers simple tatami rooms with futons, shared baths, and homemade meals using local produce like fresh buckwheat noodles. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an immersive rural experience without high costs. The property is just a 5-minute walk from the bus stop linking to Omiya Station, making it accessible despite its quiet location. Guests can enjoy seasonal activities such as rice planting or autumn leaf viewing nearby. Prices start at ¥6,000 per person, including breakfast, offering excellent value for a peaceful countryside retreat.

The best time to visit Ogase for cherry blossoms is late March to early April, when the Ogase River banks bloom with pink sakura trees. The gentle riverfront path becomes a picturesque corridor of blossoms, perfect for walking or cycling. This period also coincides with mild weather and fewer crowds compared to Tokyo’s main spots. Nearby Ancient Tombs offer a serene contrast to the floral beauty, creating a unique blend of nature and history. For photography lovers, early morning light enhances the reflection of cherry petals on the water. Local events like small street markets often accompany the bloom, adding charm to the visit. Avoid late April if you’re aiming for peak blossoms, as they typically fade by mid-April.

Must-visit cultural landmarks in Ogase include the Ancient Tombs (such as the Ogase Kofun Group), Nagano Shrine, and the Ogase Town Historical Museum. The Ancient Tombs are remnants of Japan’s Kofun period, featuring keyhole-shaped burial mounds with historical significance. Nagano Shrine, dating back to the Edo era, hosts traditional kagura dances during its annual festival. The Historical Museum houses artifacts like farming tools, vintage photos, and local crafts, illustrating Ogase’s transformation from a rural village to a modern community. These sites are all within walking distance of each other, making them easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Don’t miss the shrine’s torii gate at golden hour—it’s especially photogenic.

Yes, Ogase is highly suitable for families. The town offers safe, open spaces like the Ogase River Greenway and White Bird Park, where kids can play freely among nature. Many local inns, such as Ogaseya Ryokan, provide child-friendly activities like rice planting workshops, vegetable harvesting, and handmade soba noodle classes. The annual folk festival includes games, craft booths, and traditional performances tailored for young visitors. With minimal traffic and clean air, it’s a relaxing environment away from urban stress. Public transport from Omiya Station is reliable, and renting e-bikes allows families to explore at their own pace. It’s an ideal destination for meaningful, low-pressure family bonding.

Must-try local dishes in Ogase include Ogase Buckwheat Noodles (Soba) made from locally grown buckwheat, served cold with a soy-based dip or warm in a broth. Another highlight is Farm-to-Table Pork Hot Pot, prepared with black pork raised in the area and seasonal vegetables. During the folk festival, try the limited-edition Kofun Rice Bowl—a clay-pot steamed meal symbolizing ancestral respect. Street vendors near Nagano Shrine sell grilled mochi and sweet bean paste dumplings. Visit the Ogase Market or your inn’s restaurant to taste authentic flavors. All dishes emphasize freshness and tradition, reflecting the town’s agricultural roots and culinary pride.

Yes, Ogase offers stunning photo opportunities. Capture the blossoming cherry trees along the Ogase River at sunrise, when soft light reflects on the water. The Ancient Tombs illuminated at dusk create a dramatic, almost mystical atmosphere—perfect for long-exposure shots. Nagano Shrine’s vermilion torii gate framed by autumn foliage is another iconic shot. For a unique perspective, ride a bike along the greenway trail through rice fields, especially during golden hour. The lack of urban clutter means clean backgrounds and natural lighting. Bring a wide-angle lens and tripod for best results. These locations are easily accessible and ideal for both amateur and professional photographers seeking tranquility and beauty.

From Tokyo, take the Seibu Railway to Omiya Station (approx. 40 minutes), then transfer to a Saitama Prefectural Bus (e.g., route "Omiya → Ogase") for about 20 minutes. Total travel time: ~1 hour. Tickets are affordable, and buses run every 30–60 minutes. Alternatively, drive via the Kosoku Expressway, exit at Omiya Interchange, then follow Prefectural Road 26—about 45 minutes. For eco-friendly travel, rent an electric bike at Omiya Station and ride the scenic Ogase River Greenway. Check bus schedules in advance, as frequencies drop on weekends. This mix of rail and bus ensures a smooth, cost-effective journey.

Nighttime in Ogase is peaceful but magical. The Ancient Tombs Light-Up Event (held annually in summer) uses soft lights to highlight burial mounds, creating a poetic atmosphere enhanced by storytelling. Some inns, like Ogaseya Ryokan, host stargazing sessions under the dark skies—ideal for spotting the Milky Way. If visiting during the Folk Festival, enjoy evening kagura dance performances and lantern processions. Walking along the Ogase River at night, listening to crickets and distant frogs, offers a meditative experience. No loud nightlife here—just calm, starlit moments perfect for relaxation and reflection.

Unique experiences in Ogase include rice planting workshops, where you learn traditional farming techniques; handmade soba noodle classes using local flour; and archaeology simulation games at the Ancient Tombs site. During the Folk Festival, participate in wearing traditional costumes, learning kagura dances, and performing rituals. Some inns offer evening tea ceremonies with local matcha. These activities are hosted by local associations or Ogaseya Ryokan, with prices ranging from ¥1,500 to ¥3,000 per person. They combine education, culture, and hands-on fun—ideal for travelers wanting deeper connection with the community.

For first-time visitors, staying in the central district of Ogase is ideal. Located just a 5-minute walk from the bus terminal connecting to Omiya Station, this area offers easy access to major attractions like the Ancient Tombs, Nagano Shrine, and Ogase River Greenway. Accommodations include Ogaseya Ryokan, which provides simple tatami rooms, shared baths, and home-cooked meals. The area has convenience stores, small restaurants, and friendly locals. Staying here ensures safety, accessibility, and a genuine taste of rural life. Choose a hotel near the bus stop for seamless transfers, making it the perfect base for exploring this tranquil corner of Saitama.