"Ogawa is a name that through generations has been closely associated with shibari, kinbaku and Japanese rope bondage. Known among rope masters for its special balance between structure, feel and tradition, Ogawa has become a classic choice among both beginners and experienced riggers.

The name refers to the Japanese shop where this rope has been sold since the late 1920s, and over the years it has become an iconic choice within Japanese rope bondage.

Ogawa rope is a classic Japanese asanawa jute rope (麻縄).

Asanawa is the traditional Japanese term for natural fibre rope, used in shibari and kinbaku for their living texture, natural grip and organic movement. It is upon this tradition that Ogawa ropes build.

This rope comes in its natural golden colour, the classic tone many associate with traditional Japanese asanawa. Undyed, raw and honest, with the warm glow that only natural fibre can provide.

In Japanese culture, natural tones are associated with wa (和), harmony, balance and a down-to-earth connection. This makes naturally coloured Ogawa rope the most classic and traditional choice.

The rope is made of traditional 3-strand single-ply jute with a vibrant and slightly loose structure, which provides a natural grip and an authentic feel in the hands.

Over time, the rope becomes softer, smoother, and more supple with use, whilst retaining its character and strength.

A standard, new and dry 6 mm Ogawa asanawa jute rope has a theoretical breaking strength of approx. 150 to 180 kg (1.5 - 1.8 kN). This makes the rope suitable for classical shibari, kinbaku, floor work and lighter semi-suspension, when used correctly and with an understanding of the natural variations of the material.

At Ropes & Riggers, each rope is treated with our own rope paste made from cold-pressed tsubaki oil and Danish beeswax, which gives the rope a more user-friendly start and a softer feel against the skin.

Ogawa rope naturally contains JBO (Jute Batching Oil) as part of the traditional production process, which contributes to the rope's characteristic scent and authentic feel.

A classic Asanawa jute rope for those who want tradition, history and the raw feel of Japanese rope bondage.

Specifications

✔ Material: Jute
✔ Type: Japanese Asanawa jute rope
✔ Construction: 3-strand single-ply
Thickness: 6 mm
✔ Lengths: 8 metres / 10 metres
✔ Theoretical breaking strength: approx. 150–180 kg (1.5–1.8 kN)
✔ Colour: Natural golden (symbol of balance, simplicity and the original)
✔ Treated with tsubaki oil and Danish beeswax
Ready to use
✔ Contains JBO
✔ Source: Ogawa Store, Japan

Please note:
Natural product – slight variations in colour and structure may occur.

Break strength disclaimer

The breaking strength is stated as a theoretical reference value for a new, dry, and unused rope.

As jute is a natural material, variations in the fibres, moisture content, wear and tear, knots, the direction of stress and ongoing use can significantly affect the rope’s actual strength.

Ropes & Riggers always recommends that ropes are thoroughly inspected before use, and that suspension or load-bearing ties are only carried out by persons with experience, knowledge and understanding of the material's limitations.