On March 21, 2002, Ogasawara debuted for the Japan national team under manager Philippe Troussier against Ukraine. In June, he was selected Japan for 2002 World Cup. He played a match against Tunisia. Japan qualified to the knockout stage first time in Japan's history. After 2002 World Cup, Ogasawara played many matches as starting member under new manager Zico. He was selected Japan for 2003 Confederations Cup and 2004 Asian Cup. At 2004 Asian Cup, although he played only 2 matches, Japan won the champions. In 2005, he was selected Japan for 2005 Confederations Cup and played all 3 matches. In 2006, he was selected Japan for 2006 World Cup. Although he played 2 matches, Japan was eliminated in the group stages. After 2006 World Cup, Ogasawara was not selected Japan for generational change. In February 2010, he was selected Japan by manager Takeshi Okada. He played for Japan for the first time in 4 years. He played 55 games and scored 7 goals for Japan until 2010.