"Ogawa" is a name that has been closely associated with shibari, kinbaku, and Japanese rope bondage for generations. Known among master riggers for its particular balance of structure, feel, and tradition, Ogawa has become a preferred 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 name within Japanese rope bondage.

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

Asanawa is the traditional Japanese term for natural fibre rope, used in shibari and kinbaku for its vibrant structure, natural grip, and organic movement. It is this tradition that Ogawa rope continues to carry forward.

This black version provides a darker and more intense visual expression, while retaining the authentic feel of traditional asanawa.

In Japanese culture, black (黒 / kuro) symbolises discipline, mystery, and elegance. The colour is associated with formal strength, wisdom, and the balance between light and dark. Historically, black has been worn by monks, artists, and masters as an expression of calm, contemplation, and control.

This makes the rope an obvious choice for those seeking precision, focus, and a strong visual impact in their bindings.

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 6mm Ogawa asanawa jute rope has a theoretical breaking strength of approximately 150 to 180 kg (1.5 - 1.8 kN). This makes the rope suitable for traditional shibari, kinbaku, floorwork, and lighter semi-suspension when used correctly and with respect for the material's natural variations.

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 traditional Asanawa jute rope for those seeking history, authenticity, and the raw feeling of Japanese rope bondage.

Specifications

✔ Material: Jute
Type: Traditional 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: Blackkuro – a symbol of discipline, calm, and aesthetic control)
✔ 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.