Hozugawa River Boat Ride Experience in Arashiyama, Kyoto
- Cruise down Kyoto’s scenic Hozugawa River on an exciting 2-hour traditional wooden boat ride.
- Admire cherry blossoms, vibrant greenery, autumn leaves, or snow-covered views through every season.
- Stay warm and comfortable in winter with heated seats on board the covered sightseeing boat.
- Book Hozugawa River Boat Ride on KKday now for instant confirmation and exclusive online offers!
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Private tour, Shared tour |
| Seasonal | Winter Snow Exclusive |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights |
| Cruise type | Sightseeing boat |
Product Info
The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.
— What You Can Expect —
The Hozu River originates from the Tamba Highlands in the central area of Kyoto Prefecture and surrounds the mountains of Kyoto to Kameoka, then crosses a 16km canyon, and finally flows into the Yodo River through the Kamo River. Local boatsmen use slender bamboo poles, rudders and oars to skilfully steer the boat freely among the rocks. There are usually three boatsmen in charge of steering, but depending on the wind direction and water level of the day, it may take up to five boatsmen to maneuver the boat.
Hozu River Valley boasts distinct natural beauties through the seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, frog songs during summer, vivid crimson leaves and perfect reflection in autumn, and the valley blanketed in snow during winter. In winter, the boats are lined with heated tatami to stay warm. The Hozu River is long and ever-changing, winding its way around huge rock formations that make the views unparalleled.
Arashiyama Hozu River Boat Ride
Purchase Notice
- For safety concerns, travellers must meet the following requirements to board (if not, boarding will be denied even if a ticket is purchased)
• At least 80 cm in height
• Able to put on the life jacket properly
• In good health conditions - If you have questions, please contact the boat company
• TEL: +81 771-22-5846
• FAX: 0771-25-1550 - To change the number of passengers, boarding time, etc. after booking, please contact KKday Customer Service Center.
Reminders
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Pregnant women
Please fill in the application form and submit it to the ticket window on the day of the boat ride
During peak season, it's possible that you cannot board the reserved boat ride if it reaches full capacity. In that case, please wait for the supplier to arrange another boat
Before departure, please check Hozu River Boat Ride official website for the ferry schedule on the day (https://www.hozugawakudari.jp/)
In case of rain, tents will be set up on the boat and the trip will proceed as usual
If the water level rises due to bad weather or storms, the opening hours may be adjusted or the trip may be cancelled. In such force majeure cases, travellers will be refunded
The image is for reference only. Flowering season may vary depending on the weather
Re-issue or refund of the board pass is not possible if lost
To change the date of use or the number of passengers, please cancel the reservation at least one day before the date of use and purchase a new ticket. Changes cannot be made on the day
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 1 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
Yes, advance booking is highly recommended for the Hozu River Boat Ride, especially during peak seasons or specific times of the year, to secure your desired slot. You can conveniently book your tickets through KKday, which offers a reliable and straightforward reservation process, ensuring a smooth start to your experience.
The Hozu River Boat Ride typically lasts approximately 2 hours. During this time, you will travel a picturesque 16-kilometer stretch of the river, enjoying the stunning natural scenery from Kameoka to Saga-Arashiyama.
The Hozu River Boat Ride prioritizes passenger safety. Experienced boatmen skillfully navigate the river, and all necessary safety protocols are strictly followed. Passengers are provided with safety briefings, and life jackets are available, ensuring a secure and enjoyable journey through the rapids and calmer sections of the river.
The Hozu River Boat Ride offers a dynamic display of natural beauty across all four seasons. In spring, expect vibrant cherry blossoms; summer brings lush, verdant greenery; autumn transforms the valley with colorful leaves; and winter provides a serene landscape covered in pristine snow. Each season offers a unique visual experience.
Yes, during the colder winter months, the boats for the Hozu River Boat Ride are specially equipped with heated tatami mats. This thoughtful accommodation ensures that passengers can stay warm and comfortable while enjoying the snowy scenery and unique winter atmosphere of the Hozu Valley.
The Hozu River Boat Ride commences in Kameoka, offering a starting point upstream. The scenic 16-kilometer journey concludes in Saga-Arashiyama, allowing convenient access to the popular Arashiyama district upon arrival.
For those wishing to witness the breathtaking autumn leaves along the Hozu River, the best time to experience the boat ride is typically from mid-November to early December. During this period, the valley is adorned with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold.
The Hozu River Boat Ride ticket provides access to a scenic 2-hour journey down a 16-kilometer stretch of river, offering a unique perspective of the Hozu Valley's natural beauty. You'll experience the thrill of navigating gentle rapids and tranquil waters, guided by traditional boatmen, immersed in the ever-changing seasonal landscapes.
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