Guide
The 70th Hogaku & Hogaku-mai Festival is a historic cultural event focusing on traditional Japanese music (Hogaku) and dance (Hogaku-mai). Held in the culturally rich city of Ogaki, Gifu, this event plays a vital role in preserving and sharing Japan's traditional aesthetics. The fusion of delicate musical tones and elegant dance movements offers a profound sense of serenity and inspiration.
The main highlight is the opportunity to experience authentic Hogaku performances and expressive Hogaku-mai dance, either simultaneously or in sequence, performed by skilled masters. The sounds of traditional instruments help one forget the bustle of daily life and sharpen the senses. Furthermore, the dancers' movements, adorned in beautiful traditional costumes, visually express the seasons and classical stories, allowing the beauty to transcend language barriers. This space, where music and dance become one, is the essence of Japanese traditional art.
The event is scheduled to take place over two days, from November 7 to November 8, 2026. Please check the official website or local community boards closer to the date for the detailed program and performance start times. It is a luxurious way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture during the peak of autumn.
The specific venue is expected to be around the cultural facilities in Ogaki City. Ogaki is known as the 'City of Water' and is a region dedicated to cultural promotion. For access, we recommend using public transportation to reach central Ogaki and then checking local information for the exact venue-adjacent area. Please wait for official updates regarding the specific location and maps.
There are specific etiquettes for appreciating traditional performing arts. Appreciating the music in silence is a way to show respect to the performers. It is standard practice to remain quiet during musical and dance performances to avoid any disturbance. Since this event takes place during a seasonal transition, we recommend enjoying the atmosphere of Japanese autumn with all your senses.
Please respect the traditional atmosphere of the venue. For clothing, choose attire appropriate for the season to ensure you can enjoy the performance comfortably. Please remain mindful of those around you to maintain the solemnity of the event.