Sagano Scenic Railway Arashiyama Kyoto
A charming, old-fashioned train ride through Kyoto's stunning Arashiyama gorge, offering picturesque views of the Hozugawa River and surrounding natur...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant fall colors
Sagano Scenic Railway Arashiyama Kyoto
Best Time
Vibrant fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, old-fashioned train ride through Kyoto's stunning Arashiyama gorge, offering picturesque views of the Hozugawa River and surrounding nature.
"Feels like we were lost in time on this incredible scenic train ride in Kyoto."
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Tickets sell out fast! Book online or arrive early to secure your spot, especially for the open-air car.
💺 Right Side for Best Views
From Arashiyama to Kameoka, sit on the right for the most dramatic gorge scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Scenic Gorge Views
Along the Hozugawa River
Wind through lush valleys and along the Hozugawa River for breathtaking natural beauty. Feels like stepping into a movie scene.
Nostalgic Train Experience
Arashiyama Station to Kameoka Station
Ride in charming, old-fashioned carriages that evoke a sense of timelessness. A unique way to travel through Kyoto's countryside.
Seasonal Spectacles
Throughout the route
Witness vibrant autumn foliage or delicate spring cherry blossoms painting the landscape in stunning colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Prime Seats
Strategic Seating is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Tickets sell out fast! Book online or arrive early to secure your spot, especially for the open-air car.
💺 Right Side for Best Views
From Arashiyama to Kameoka, sit on the right for the most dramatic gorge scenery.
🚶♀️ Combine with Boat Ride
Consider a one-way train ticket and return via the Hozugawa River boat for a full Arashiyama experience.
🧥 Open-Air Car Prep
If you choose the open-air car, bring a rain jacket and be ready for the elements.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets in Advance
Tickets sell out fast! Book online or arrive early to secure your spot, especially for the open-air car.
💺 Right Side for Best Views
From Arashiyama to Kameoka, sit on the right for the most dramatic gorge scenery.
🚶♀️ Combine with Boat Ride
Consider a one-way train ticket and return via the Hozugawa River boat for a full Arashiyama experience.
🧥 Open-Air Car Prep
If you choose the open-air car, bring a rain jacket and be ready for the elements.
⏳ Short but Sweet Ride
The 25-minute journey is packed with views, but don't expect a long, leisurely trip. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Sagano Scenic Railway offers a charming, nostalgic journey through beautiful natural landscapes, particularly praised during autumn and spring. While some find the wooden seats uncomfortable and the scenery less 'breathtaking' outside peak seasons, most agree it's a delightful and scenic experience, especially when combined with other Arashiyama attractions like the bamboo forest or a river boat ride.
"The name promises romance, but for me it felt more like an uncomfortable blind date. The wooden seats may be considered part of its nostalgic charm, but after a while they feel less "romantic" and more like you are sitting in a museum piece. I rode in early September, which may explain why the scenery did not quite live up to the hype, lush green, yes, but not the breathtaking spectacle one might expect from all the glowing reviews.
Perhaps this train truly shines in the crisp colours of autumn or the snowy frames of winter, but in late summer it was more ordinary than magical. If you are planning a trip, I would suggest timing it carefully to avoid the same underwhelming experience."
Zul M
"What a nice sight seeing railway line that runs along the Hozugawa river between arashiyama and Kameoka. You can buy tickets online or at the first station beside the JR Saga-arashiyama line. Its better to get a reservation before because many tourists are coming for it. The ride will take 25 minutes and it was so fun."
Ardith Telewik
"Well, I got a seat on the wrong side, so it wasn't as good. If you are leaving from kyoto end make sure you are on right as the train crosses a bridge within 8 minutes and you have a cliff for the rest of the trip. Great views of gorge if you are on the right side. At the other end, if you get on the bus, it drives around in a ridiculous route to take you to boating for a cost of 350 yen. Rip off. Walk to train station if not boating."
Redfern Redfern
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station. The Sagano Scenic Railway's Arashiyama station is a short walk from there. Some travelers suggest taking the JR line to Umahori Station and walking to the Sagano Railway station to get a seat on the right side for better views.
Yes, it's generally easy to access. The main stations are well-marked. If you're coming from the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, it's a pleasant walk to the station.
Take a JR train from Osaka to Kyoto Station, then transfer to the JR Sagano Line towards Saga-Arashiyama Station. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours in total.
No, the Sagano Scenic Railway is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass. You'll need to purchase separate tickets for this line.
Limited parking is available near the stations, but it can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Public transport is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A one-way ticket typically costs around ¥880 per person. Prices can vary slightly, so it's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
You can purchase tickets online in advance through the official website or at the ticket counters at the main stations, such as JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. Booking ahead is highly recommended.
Reservations are strongly advised, especially during peak seasons, as tickets can sell out quickly. You can reserve seats online or at the station.
The railway typically operates from March 1st to December 29th, with trains running hourly from around 9 AM to 4 PM. It's closed on Wednesdays and during the New Year holidays. Always check the official schedule for exact times.
Yes, you can buy round-trip tickets, but many travelers suggest buying a one-way ticket and returning via the Hozugawa River boat ride for a more varied experience. The return train track is the same as the outbound.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The scenic train ride is approximately 25 minutes long, covering about 7.3 kilometers from Saga Torokko Station to Kameoka Torokko Station.
You'll experience beautiful views of the Hozugawa River, lush green valleys, mountains, and dense forests. The scenery is particularly stunning during autumn and spring.
Yes, children often enjoy the train ride. The novelty of the old-fashioned train and the changing scenery can be captivating for younger travelers.
Yes, there is an open-air car (Torokko 4) which offers a more immersive experience, allowing you to feel the breeze and hear the sounds of nature. However, it's more exposed to the weather.
When traveling from Arashiyama to Kameoka, the right side offers the most dramatic views of the gorge and river. If you're returning, the left side provides different perspectives. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting. However, the train moves, so capturing clear shots requires practice. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities.
Use a faster shutter speed to minimize blur from the train's movement. Consider using a wider aperture for better low-light performance and a slightly higher ISO if needed. Image stabilization is also helpful.
The entire route offers scenic views, but keep an eye out for bridges and dramatic river bends. The right side of the train (Arashiyama to Kameoka) is often cited for the best gorge views. +1
Absolutely! Modern smartphone cameras are capable of capturing great shots. Ensure your lens is clean and take advantage of any stabilization features.
Photos capturing the train winding through the colorful autumn leaves, the lush green valleys, and the Hozugawa River are very popular. Shots of the vintage train itself are also iconic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tickets in advance to ensure you get seats together. While the wooden seats are part of the charm, they can be a bit hard, so bringing a small cushion might be helpful for very young children. Combining the train ride with a visit to the nearby Arashiyama Bamboo Grove offers a full day of exploration that kids will love.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for movement blur; a faster shutter speed is your friend. Consider using a prime lens for better low-light performance or a zoom lens to capture details from afar. The open-air car provides unique angles but be mindful of weather conditions.
+1 Capturing the vintage train against the backdrop of nature is a classic shot. ❤️ Couples Seeking Romance
To enhance the romantic feel, consider booking the open-air car for a more intimate connection with nature, or time your visit for the vibrant colors of autumn or spring.
+1 A one-way ticket followed by a leisurely boat ride down the river can also create a memorable and romantic day out. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sagano Romantic Train Experience
+1Travelers often describe the experience as feeling like they've stepped back in time, with the wooden seats and classic design contributing to its nostalgic appeal. While the scenery is beautiful year-round, it's particularly spectacular during the autumn foliage season (mid-November to early December) and the spring cherry blossom season (March to May).
+1It's important to note that while the name suggests romance, some visitors find the wooden seats a bit hard for longer journeys, and the scenery, while lovely, might not always meet the 'breathtaking' expectations set by glowing reviews, especially outside of peak seasons.
Maximizing Your Arashiyama Visit
Another popular combination is the train ride followed by a Hozugawa River Boat Ride. This offers a different perspective of the gorge, with a more adventurous descent down the river. You can take the train one way to Kameoka and then catch a bus or walk to the boat launch point for the return journey.
This allows you to experience both the scenic train and a more active river adventure. When planning your day, consider the logistics of travel between these attractions. Walking is often feasible between the bamboo grove and the train station. For the boat ride, factor in the time to get to the launch point from the train's end station.
Understanding the Scenery and Seating
However, it's important to understand that the 'best' side can be subjective and depends on the specific section of the track. Even if you're on the 'lesser' side, you'll still witness beautiful landscapes, just at different points in the journey. Some reviewers suggest that regardless of which side you sit on, you will have great views at different times.
For those seeking an even more immersive experience, the open-air car (Torokko 4) is an option. This car provides unobstructed views and a closer connection to nature. However, it also means being more exposed to the elements, so bringing a rain jacket is advisable, especially if the weather is unpredictable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit