Sagano Romantic Train Ticket: Saga to/from Kameoka

Vintage charm meets scenic splendor

Step aboard the Sagano Romantic Train and settle into its nostalgic, vintage-style carriages enclosed with wide windows. As the train gently winds along the historic tracks, you’ll be treated to a sensory journey: the rhythmic clatter of wheels, the fresh mountain breeze, and the ever-changing panorama outside. Watch as the train hugs the dramatic cliffs above the sparkling Hozugawa River, gliding past 7.5 km of lush forests, rocky gorges, and tunnels all in just 25 minutes! Depending on the season, you might see cherry blossoms floating by, a lush summer canopy, or a fiery tapestry of autumn leaves.

From bamboo groves to countryside calm

Your journey begins in Saga (Arashiyama), famous for its enchanting bamboo groves and lively riverside scenes, and ends in the tranquil countryside of Kameoka. Along the way, each stop-like the scenic Torokko Arashiyama and Hozukyo-offers glimpses of rustic bridges, secluded river bends, and untouched woodland. The views from the train are nothing short of cinematic! Car No. 5, known as “The Rich,” offers a fully open-air ride with wooden benches and unobstructed views, letting you feel the fresh mountain breeze and hear the river’s gentle roar up close.

Sagano Romantic Train Ticket: Saga to/from Kameoka

Discover the scenic beauty of Kyoto's Sagano area on this sightseeing tour that includes a ride aboard the Sagano Romantic Train from Saga Station to Kameoka Station, covering 7.3 kilometers in just 25 minutes. This guided journey allows you to see Arashiyama’s bamboo forests and other lush landscapes along the Hozugawa River, with seasonal scenery that changes like a living postcard. The tour is available in Japanese and English audio guide options, and it offers a paper-free boarding experience using an e-ticket on your phone. With pre-assigned seats, you can enjoy open-air wooden seating and vintage lamps aboard ‘The Rich’ (Car No. 5) for an extra dreamy journey.

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Your tour stops at Arashiyama’s bamboo grove where visitors can walk through the lush greenery, marveling at its towering stalks reaching up to 60 feet high. Established in the early 19th century, this iconic forest spans about 45 acres and is one of Kyoto's most photographed landmarks. The grove features a small shrine dedicated to Hozu-no-kami, the deity believed to protect travelers on the Hozugawa River. Visitors typically spend around 30 minutes here, enjoying the serene atmosphere and taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Unlike other bamboo forests, Arashiyama’s unique layout with narrow paths winding through dense foliage creates a mystical experience that draws millions each year. It's an essential stop for anyone visiting Kyoto as it encapsulates the charm and tranquility of Japan's natural landscapes.

Marvel at Hozugawa River Scenery

The Sagano Romantic Train journey offers breathtaking views of the Hozugawa River, which winds through a picturesque valley flanked by lush greenery. The river stretches for approximately 20 kilometers from Kameoka to Arashiyama and has been a vital transportation route since ancient times. Along its banks, you'll see traditional Japanese houses, rice paddies, and small shrines that reflect the area's rich cultural heritage dating back over a thousand years. Tourists often spend about an hour exploring this riverine landscape either before or after their train ride, enjoying boat tours or simply walking along the riverside paths. The Hozugawa River is unique in its ability to showcase both natural beauty and historical significance, making it an integral part of the Sagano Romantic Train experience.

Experience Saga Station

Your journey begins at Saga Station where you can board the Sagano Romantic Train for a scenic ride through Kyoto's picturesque countryside. Built in 1925, this station is located just west of central Kyoto and serves as a gateway to the Arashiyama area. The station itself features traditional Japanese architecture with wooden structures and tiled roofs that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Visitors typically spend around 10 minutes here before boarding their train, taking time to read information boards about local attractions or purchasing souvenirs from nearby shops. Saga Station is unique for its historical significance in connecting Kyoto's urban center with rural beauty spots like Arashiyama and Kameoka.

Enjoy the Sagano Romantic Train Ride

The highlight of your tour is riding on the Sagano Romantic Train, a nostalgic journey that packs 7.3 kilometers of scenic views into just 25 minutes. The train features open-air wooden seating in Car No. 5, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic views while feeling the cool river mist. Vintage lamps and period-appropriate decor add charm to this historic route established in 1986 as a way to attract tourists interested in Kyoto's natural beauty. Passengers often comment on how the train ride feels like stepping back in time with its old-fashioned ambiance and picturesque scenery that changes seasonally, from vibrant cherry blossoms in spring to golden leaves in autumn.

Tour Highlights

• Ride the Sagano Romantic Train for 25 minutes
• Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in 30-minute walk
• Audio guide available in Japanese and English
• Enjoy Hozugawa River views along 7.3 km route
• Pre-assigned seats with open-air wooden seating
• Paper-free boarding experience using e-ticket on phone
• Visit Saga Station before starting the ride
• Marvel at traditional Japanese architecture along the way

Perfect for travelers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs, this guided tour provides an immersive look into Kyoto's scenic countryside. The 25-minute train journey allows you to explore Arashiyama’s bamboo grove, marvel at Hozugawa River views, and experience Saga Station, giving you a comprehensive taste of Sagano's charm while enjoying its rich cultural heritage.