Oku no Hosomichi Musubi no Chi Memorial Museum, Ogaki

The Oku no Hosomichi Musubi no Chi Memorial Museum in Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture, commemorates the endpoint of Matsuo Bashō's legendary literary journey across Japan in 1689. This historic five-month trek became the foundation for Japan's most celebrated travel narrative, "Oku no Hosomichi" (The Narrow Road to the Deep North), considered one of the greatest works of classical Japanese literature.

Bashō, widely regarded as Japan's greatest haiku master, departed from Edo (modern Tokyo) on May 16, 1689, accompanied by his disciple Kawai Sora. Their 156-day journey covered approximately 2,400 kilometers mostly on foot through northern Honshu, concluding at Ogaki in autumn 1689. The expedition sought to renew Bashō's poetic art by visiting sacred sites and locations immortalized by earlier poets, particularly the revered Saigyō. This dangerous pilgrimage through relatively unsettled provinces represents a spiritual quest for poetic enlightenment and connection with Japan's literary heritage.

The museum features two main exhibition wings that offer comprehensive insights into this cultural treasure. The Bashō Wing presents detailed exhibitions about the poet's character, daily life, and the famous journey itself through documents, dioramas, and an immersive AV Theater with a 200-inch screen displaying 3D presentations that bring the world of Oku no Hosomichi to life. The Senken Wing showcases the achievements of five notable historical figures from Ogaki who played crucial roles from the late Edo period through the end of the shogunate, providing context for the region's broader cultural significance.

Visitors can explore permanent exhibitions featuring original manuscripts, artistic interpretations, and interactive displays that illuminate both Bashō's personal transformation during the journey and the enduring influence of his masterwork on Japanese literature. The museum also houses a Sightseeing and Exchange Hall offering comprehensive information about Ogaki City and the wider Nishi-Mino region, plus Mukayusotaiseisha facilities for cultural programs and lectures.

The museum is strategically positioned next to Ogaki Funamachi Kawaminato, designated as a National Scenic Place and recognized as an official stop along the historic Oku no Hosomichi route. This location allows visitors to experience the same landscape that inspired Bashō's final poetic reflections over 330 years ago.

The museum stands 16 minutes' walk from JR Ogaki Station. By car, it's 20 minutes from Ogaki IC on the Meishin Expressway or 10 minutes from Ogaki Nishi IC on the Tokai Kanjo Expressway. Local buses run from JR Ogaki Station south exit, with a 7-minute ride to "Oku no Hosomichi Musubinochi Kinenkan-mae" bus stop. Entry to the Bashōkan/Senkenkan costs 300 yen for adults (150 yen for groups), with free admission for visitors under 18. The Sightseeing/Exchange Hall is free for all visitors.