Despite the unstable weather, about 500 people attended.
Ogano Town, Saitama Prefecture, bordering Gunma Prefecture, is a town rich in nature and has the catchphrase "The Town of Flowers, Kabuki, and Famous Water." It is also the only town in Japan revitalizing itself through motorcycles. While various regional revitalization initiatives are underway in rural areas facing depopulation due to declining birthrates and aging populations, Ogano Town is actively promoting its revitalization efforts by welcoming touring riders. The annual Ogano Riders' Inn is one such initiative.
On Sunday, October 6th, the 15th Ogano Riders' Inn/JAPAN RIDERS CAFÉ was held at a special venue in front of the Ryokamiso National Guest House. The scorching summer heat had finally ended, ushering in the perfect touring season. Unfortunately, the weather on the day was rainy from the morning. However, the rain cleared around 10:00 a.m., when the opening ceremony began, and visitors thoroughly enjoyed browsing the 17 booths surrounding the venue, selling motorcycle accessories and restaurants.
On the central stage, the event began with a prayer for traffic safety at Ojika Shrine, followed by a series of stage events hosted by "talkative rider and motorcyclist" Naomi Shibata.
Many motorbikes from all over the Kanto region came to the motorbike parking lot located near the venue.
The event featured a promotional performance by actor and TV personality Ryoichi Yamaguchi, who serves as Ogano Tourism Ambassador, and the Ogano Moto Girls (OMG), along with a dynamic performance by Ogano native actor, stuntman, and martial artist Tomonori Muraoka, which drew thunderous applause from the audience.
Additionally, former AKB48 member Natsumi Hirajima held a talk show on the JAPAN RIDERS stage, sharing various motorcycle-related anecdotes.
The Bike Love Forum, which will be held in Ogano Town next year, was also promoted. A group photo followed, followed by the traditional rock-paper-scissors tournament with a chance to win luxurious prizes, brought the stage event to a close, amid a mix of cheers and sighs.
Many visitors flocked to each booth, and the lunchtime food and beverage booth was bustling with visitors purchasing the famous Waraji Katsu Bento, Rider Bento, and curry rice.
Thus, the 15th Ogano Riders' Inn/JAPAN RIDERS CAFÉ ended without any rain and was a great success.
Ryoichi Yamaguchi, Ogano Tourism Ambassador, and two members of OMG promote Welcome Riders Ogano
Ryoichi Yamaguchi and Yumiko Kawasaki will be giving a Freude Ladies riding lesson at Bike Forest Parking Lot on December 1st.
Martial artist Tomonori Muraoka performs ink painting to background music
Acrobatic performance captivates the audience
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The special guest was former AKB48 member Natsumi Hirajima. She appeared in a PR event and talk show for JAPAN RIDERS CAFÉ.
An announcement was made about the Bike Love Forum to be held in Ogano next year.
The annual rock-paper-scissors tournament with prizes was as exciting as ever.
Ricoland Kofu store sells motorcycle supplies and clothing
As you know, Kushitani exhibits and sells riding gear.
Ogano Koishi is sold by Yamiya Shosetsudo
Arai Buhei Shoten’s grilled dumplings coated with special miso are very popular
Dongdaemun, where Waraji Katsudon and Waraji Burgers were sold
Ryokamiso sells curry rice, Bishamonsui water, and more.
Shunrai, who sold Waraji Katsu Bento
OMG sold sweets, coffee, and merchandise
RSC Racing Sidecar Communication exhibited a variety of sidecars
A police motorcycle was dispatched from the local Ogano Police Station.
JAPAN RIDERS of the Japan Motorcycle Promotion and Safety Association
Tomonori Muraoka merchandise sales
The Motorcycle Culture Association is also working hard
Motorcycle Books sells a variety of motorcycle books
