Explore Arashiyama: Kyoto's Scenic Train and River Boat Adventure
Visiting Kyoto offers a wealth of unique experiences, with two standout activities being the Sagano Scenic Railway ride and the Hozugawa River boat trip.
The Sagano Scenic Railway, a charming vintage train, meanders through the picturesque Hozugawa Ravine, offering breathtaking views of Arashiyama's stunning landscapes. The journey is particularly enchanting during the cherry blossom season in spring and the vibrant maple leaf season from mid-November to early December.
The Hozugawa River boat ride, spanning approximately 16 kilometers from Kameoka to Kyoto's Arashiyama, provides a serene two-hour journey through nature, skillfully maneuvered by three experienced boatmen. This immersive experience allows you to hear the melodies of various birds and witness the changing seasonal beauty, making it one of Kyoto's most sought-after attractions.
Drawing from my personal experience, I've put together a comprehensive guide to ensure accuracy in every detail. I recommend taking the scenic train first and returning via the Hozugawa River boat, though you're welcome to choose either experience independently.
The Sagano Scenic Railway
Getting There:
- From Kyoto Station, take the JR San'in Main Line (山陰本線, about 17 minutes) to Saga-Arashiyama Station (嵯峨嵐山駅).
- Upon exiting the station, turn right to find the Saga Torokko Station (トロッコ嵯峨駅), where you can purchase tickets for both the scenic train and the Hozugawa River boat ride.
- From Saga Torokko Station, take the scenic train to Torokko Kameoka Station (トロッコ亀岡駅), the final stop. The one-way trip takes about 25 minutes.
Purchasing Tickets:
- Tickets for the scenic train (around 880 yen for adults) are available on-site. During peak tourist seasons, it's advisable to book in advance through the official website (https://www.sagano-kanko.co.jp/), which offers an English language option. Tickets are released at midnight, one month before the travel date.
- Keep in mind that trains depart hourly on the hour. Missing your scheduled departure renders the ticket void without refund or replacement, so aim to arrive early
Seat Selection Tips:
When selecting your seats, Here's an insider tip: opt for even-numbered seats, particularly C and D, as they offer the best views and photo opportunities. Seats A and B face forward from Arashiyama to Kameoka (亀岡), while C and D face backward. If you're prone to motion sickness, avoid backward-facing seats. Even-numbered seats provide scenic vistas, while odd-numbered ones mainly face tunnels and cliff walls, potentially diminishing your experience.
Carriage Details:
The train comprises five carriages, with the first four being standard and the fifth an open-air observation car. The fifth carriage is highly sought-after for its unobstructed views, ideal for photography enthusiasts. However, be aware that it lacks windows, so you'll be exposed to the elements. Note that umbrellas are not permitted in this carriage, even during rainfall.
Important Notes:
- Operating season: March to December (closed on Wednesdays, and not in service during January and February). Always check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule.
- Once you disembark mid-journey, re-boarding is not permitted.
The Hozugawa River Boat Ride
After the Scenic Train Ride:
Upon arrival at Torokko Kameoka Station (トロッコ亀岡駅), head directly to the bus stop and take a bus (approximately 20 minutes) to the Hozugawa boat dock. Alternatively, you can take a taxi (around 10 minutes) or a horse-drawn carriage (about 25 minutes).
Purchasing Boat Tickets:
Tickets can be bought in advance via the official website (https://www.hozugawakudari.jp/tickets) or on-site using an IC card such as Suica. Tickets are valid for the day, and if a boat is full, you can board the next one, as long as you don't miss the last departure of the day.
Return Options:
Some visitors might choose to skip the boat ride. In that case, you can take the scenic train back to your starting point. However, doing the same route twice can be repetitive and potentially uncomfortable due to noise from multiple tunnels.
Post-Ride Attractions:
The boat ride concludes at Togetsu-kyo Bridge (渡月橋), a landmark of Arashiyama. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views and visit nearby attractions such as Tenryuji Temple (天龍寺, a World Heritage Site with a 700-year-old Japanese garden), the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest (嵐山竹林の小径, featured in many films including "Memoirs of a Geisha"), and Jojakko-ji Temple (常寂光寺, one of Kyoto's top spots for autumn foliage viewing).
Important Notes:
- The boat ride lasts about two hours, so prepare for sun protection and use the restroom beforehand.
- Children aged 4-12 must be at least 80 cm tall to board the boat.
This guide will help you fully appreciate the beauty and culture of Arashiyama, making your visit to Kyoto truly memorable.