Sagano Romantic Train & Hozugawa River Boat Tour
- Classic Arashiyama half-day loop: Sagano Romantic Train, Kyobasha horse carriage and Hozugawa River Boat Ride in one booking.
- 25-minute Sagano Romantic Train ride on the retired Sanin Line, with views of Hozugawa Gorge on both sides.
- 25-minute Kyobasha horse carriage ride from Torokko Kameoka Station through farmland to the river boat pier.
- 90- to 110-minute Hozugawa River Boat Ride past rock formations and rapids, landing in Arashiyama.
- Select packages guarantee departure with just one traveler; group train and boat tickets are arranged for you.
- Tour ends at Togetsukyo Bridge, leaving you free to browse Arashiyama shops and Kyoto tofu restaurants.
Package options
Product Info
[Attractions]
Sagano Romantic Train (approx. 25 minutes)
Arashiyama's famous sightseeing train, with one-of-a-kind scenery in every season. Over a 25-minute ride, the train winds slowly through the valley so you can take in the beauty of Hozugawa Gorge on both sides. The carriages and seats have a nostalgic feel, and as the train follows a sightseeing track converted from the disused Sanin Line into the mountains, it feels as if time has turned back. After getting off, take a photo with the veteran diesel locomotive that is still in service.
※ Expected cherry blossom season: late March to early April / Expected autumn foliage season: mid-November to early December
Kyobasha Sightseeing Horse Carriage (approx. 25 minutes)
The carriage departs from Torokko Kameoka Station on the Sagano Romantic Train line and travels through fields and along the riverbank to the boarding point for the Hozugawa River Boat Ride. Sit back and take in Japan's distinctive rural scenery at an unhurried pace. A gentle breeze carries the scent of flowers and grass; close your eyes and listen to the clip-clop of hooves, the rustle of the wind and the sound of flowing water. Nature's ensemble is a tonic for a mind worn down by daily work.
Hozugawa River Boat Ride (approx. 90 to 110 minutes, depending on the day's water flow)
The Hozugawa River rises in the Tamba Highlands of central Kyoto Prefecture, winds through the mountains to Kameoka, then passes through a gorge of nine bends and thirteen turns to meet the Katsura River at Arashiyama, before joining the Kamo River and flowing on to Osaka Bay. The rafts and cargo boats that once carried goods downstream have faded into history as society moved on, replaced by an internationally known sightseeing boat ride. The gorge looks different in every season: strange rock formations, forested hillsides and rushing rapids make a picture-postcard landscape you will not want to leave.
※ Expected cherry blossom season: late March to early April / Expected autumn foliage season: mid-November to early December
Togetsukyo Bridge Area
Today's Togetsukyo Bridge, spanning the Katsura River between Nakanoshima and the far bank, was built in 1934. Legend has it that the retired Emperor Kameyama, watching the moon drift above the bridge as if it were crossing it, gave the bridge its name, which means "Moon Crossing Bridge." The surrounding area is a renowned spot for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, drawing visitors from across Japan. The street leading to the bridge is lined with shops selling Arashiyama specialties and traditional Kyoto tofu cuisine, so you can shop and browse at your leisure.
※ Expected cherry blossom season: late March to early April / Expected autumn foliage season: mid-November to early December
Experience the scenic Arashiyama train, departing from Saga Station
Enjoy a traditional Kyobasha horse carriage ride through the city (only for daytime train package)
Embark on a tranquil Hozugawa River cruise through stunning natural landscapes
Purchase Notice
[Notice] Group and individual package tour products are subject to the Standardized Contract for Domestic Travel issued by the Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, R.O.C. By completing your booking, you agree to and accept the terms of the Standardized Contract for Overseas Travel.
Reminders
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Admission tickets will not be included for travelers under the age of 3 and are required to be purchased on-site
Some packages depart with just 1 traveler; otherwise the minimum group size is normally 6. If the minimum number of participants is not reached, the tour will be cancelled and a cancellation notice sent by email 7 days before the departure date.
Infants under 3 who do not occupy a seat may join free of charge. However, for the Hozugawa River Boat Ride, children under 3 must have a child ticket purchased on site. Be sure to note the number of infants and their dates of birth in the remarks when booking.
For travel safety and smooth operation, the company reserves the right and duty to adjust the itinerary, modify activities, or cancel the departure. If the departure is cancelled, the tour fee will be refunded in full.
If the tour cannot operate because of weather or insufficient participants, the tour fee will be refunded in full. Other costs incurred by travelers, such as transportation and accommodation, will not be compensated.
Please note that no refund or compensation can be requested if you do not show up on the day, leave the group partway through, or choose not to take part in the itinerary for personal reasons.
For your own safety and the enjoyment of other group members, please let us know when booking if you have a chronic illness, limited mobility, or similar conditions.
The Sagano Romantic Train is booked as a group reservation, so carriages and seats cannot be specified. Train tickets only open for booking one month before the travel date and are limited in number. If the train cannot be boarded on the day, you will take a local JR train to the Kyobasha horse carriage instead and the train fare will be refunded.
Please note that the Kyobasha horse carriage may not be available on its non-operating days, in bad weather, or if a horse is unwell. In that case the horse carriage fee will be refunded and you will take a shuttle bus to the Hozugawa River Boat Ride pier instead.
Please note that the Hozugawa River Boat Ride may not operate in bad weather or when local events are held. In that case the group boat ticket fee will be refunded and you will return to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station by JR train instead.
Cherry blossom and autumn foliage periods may shift slightly depending on the weather. Once the tour is confirmed, it will go ahead as scheduled regardless of blossom or foliage conditions.
Bus and restaurant seats used during the tour may be shared with other travelers in the same group, depending on the arrangements made by the tour leader and the facilities on the day.
Minors and children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Travelers aged 80 or above must be accompanied by a family member or friend. We appreciate your understanding.
For safety reasons, the Hozugawa River Boat Ride is limited to adults and children 80 cm or taller. Please check this before ordering. If a traveler cannot board on the day because of insufficient height, no refund will be given to that traveler or to their accompanying companions.
Children under 3 who are 80 cm or taller must have a child ticket purchased on site to board the Hozugawa River Boat Ride.
The Hozugawa River Boat Ride uses open boats with no heating on board. Please dress warmly when riding in winter.
The aisles on the Sagano Romantic Train are narrow, so travelers using a wheelchair should note this in the remarks when booking.
The Sagano Romantic Train Night Cherry Blossom / Night Autumn Foliage Train & Hozugawa River Boat Ride half-day package includes only a one-way Sagano Romantic Train ticket on designated departures and the Hozugawa River Boat Ride. It does not include the Kyobasha horse carriage.
The Hozugawa River Boat Ride duration varies with the river's water level on the day (about 90 minutes on average, 60 minutes at high water, and about 110 minutes at low water).
Cancellation Policy
- For cancellations made at least 41 day(s) prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 5% will apply
- For cancellations made 31 to 40 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 10% will apply
- For cancellations made 21 to 30 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 20% will apply
- For cancellations made 2 to 20 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 30% will apply
- For cancellations made 1 to 1 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 50% will apply
- 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 your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.
FAQs
1. How long is the Sagano Scenic Railway ride?
The Sagano Scenic Railway offers a delightful journey through the natural beauty of the Hozugawa River valley, allowing passengers to enjoy the changing scenery. The focus of the ride is to provide a picturesque experience as the train winds along the river, immersing visitors in Kyoto's stunning landscapes.
2. What unique experiences does the Sagano Scenic Railway offer in Arashiyama?
The Sagano Scenic Railway provides a unique perspective of the Hozugawa River valley, especially during the vibrant autumn foliage and beautiful cherry blossom seasons. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking natural landscapes and unique photo opportunities as the train gently winds through the mountains and alongside the river, offering a memorable scenic tour.
3. Which car is recommended for the best views on the Sagano Romantic Train?
The Sagano Romantic Train offers different car types, some providing enclosed comfort and others featuring open-air designs for a more immersive experience. Passengers seeking unobstructed views of the scenery, particularly during pleasant weather, may prefer cars that allow for closer contact with nature and clearer photographic opportunities.
4. How can tickets for the Sagano Romantic Train be booked?
Tickets for the Sagano Romantic Train can be conveniently booked in advance through online travel platforms. Using KKday for your booking ensures a streamlined process, allowing you to secure your seats ahead of time and plan your Arashiyama half-day tour with greater ease. This helps avoid long queues, especially during peak travel seasons, and provides a comprehensive service experience.
5. What are the best ways to reach the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove?
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is easily accessible by foot from several nearby train stations. From Saga-Arashiyama Station (JR Line) or Arashiyama Station (Keifuku Randen Line), it's a pleasant walk of about 10-15 minutes. Signage is available to guide visitors directly to the iconic bamboo path through the serene forest.
6. What are the convenient transportation options from Kyoto Station to Arashiyama?
From Kyoto Station, the most convenient way to reach Arashiyama is by taking the JR San-in (Sagano) Line directly to Saga-Arashiyama Station. The journey typically takes about 15-20 minutes, offering a direct and efficient route. Alternatively, local buses also connect Kyoto Station to Arashiyama, providing a different scenic travel option.
7. How can visitors best avoid crowds at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?
To best enjoy the serene beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and minimize encountering large crowds, it is highly recommended to visit early in the morning, shortly after sunrise, or later in the afternoon before sunset. Weekdays generally offer a more tranquil experience compared to weekends and public holidays, allowing for a more peaceful stroll.
8. What experiences await visitors on the Hozugawa River Boat Ride and Kyobasha horse carriage in Arashiyama?
An Arashiyama half-day tour includes a tranquil Hozugawa River Boat Ride, offering stunning views of the gorge and surrounding nature from a unique perspective. Additionally, a scenic Kyobasha horse carriage ride provides a charming, traditional way to explore the area's top sights, allowing for a leisurely immersion in Arashiyama's unique atmosphere with the guidance of staff fluent in Chinese and Japanese.
