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Sagano Romantic Train

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Sagano Romantic Train

A sightseeing train that runs through the magnificent natural scenery along the Hozugawa River.

3.55 13

Last update :
Supervised by :  Sagano Scenic Railway Co., Ltd.

The Sagano Romantic Train runs along a restored section of the former San’in Main Line. Pulled by a diesel locomotive, its classic Art Deco-style passenger cars travel 7.3 km from Torokko Saga Station, next to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, to Torokko Kameoka Station in about 25 minutes each way.

The train winds through the gorge along the Hozugawa River, offering sweeping views of the river’s natural surroundings and the dramatic gorge scenery. The landscape changes with the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring and fresh greenery in summer to colorful leaves in fall and, on occasion, snowy scenery in winter. The train slows down at particularly scenic spots, giving passengers plenty of time to take in the views.

The train consists of a diesel locomotive and five passenger cars. The most popular is Car No. 5, known as the Rich Car. Its glass roof and open sides let passengers feel the breeze and hear the gentle sounds of the gorge.

All seats are reserved, and advance tickets can be booked starting one month before the travel date. Seats fill up quickly during the cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons, so early reservations are recommended. During the fall foliage season, the leaves are illuminated from around 4:30 p.m., creating an enchanting scene that differs from the daytime view.

Highlights

  • A sightseeing train connecting Arashiyama and Kameoka, designed for enjoying the scenery.
  • Seasonal views throughout the year, including cherry blossoms and fall foliage.
  • The open-air Rich Car brings passengers especially close to nature.

Photos

  • The train passes through a tunnel of cherry blossoms

    The train passes through a tunnel of cherry blossoms

  • Illuminations are also held during the fall foliage season

    Illuminations are also held during the fall foliage season

  • The route passes over railway bridges and through tunnels

    The route passes over railway bridges and through tunnels

Reviews

13

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人
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    When visiting Kyoto's famous Arashiyama area, one classic experience you absolutely shouldn't miss is riding the Sagano Romantic Train. This time, I rode from Kameoka Station to Arashiyama Station. The trip took about half an hour, following closely alongside the clear, rushing waters of the Hozu River.

    Sitting inside the retro wooden train car, I felt a slightly cool breeze blowing toward me. Outside the window, there were not only magnificent river valley views and unusual rock formations, but also beautifully blooming cherry blossoms dotting the branches. Together, the scenery looked like a painting. Although there were quite a few passengers along the way and the train car was always filled with delighted exclamations, the perspective of traveling through the gorge and taking in nature's remarkable creations was still well worth experiencing in person. If I have the chance to come back during a quieter off-season with fewer tourists and enjoy the mountain scenery more peacefully, it would be even more perfect.

  • wendy
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    When visiting Arashiyama in Kyoto, I highly recommend riding the Sagano Romantic Train at least once! The train slowly travels along the Hozu River, with beautiful natural scenery all along the way. I was especially lucky this time because it was cherry blossom season. The soft pink blossoms, lush green mountains, and gently flowing streams came together so beautifully that I couldn't stop taking photos.

    I rode from Arashiyama to Kameoka without having to rush, just slowly taking in the scenery outside the window. A refreshing breeze blew through the lush green mountains, and I could also see rafting activities on the Hozu River. The whole scene was filled with the relaxed atmosphere of spring in Kyoto. The Sagano Romantic Train actually offers different scenery in every season: cherry blossoms in spring, lush green mountains in summer, fall foliage in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter. Each season has its own beauty.

    However, even on weekdays, it is still very crowded. I recommend buying tickets in advance so you don't arrive only to find that they're sold out.

  • BobbyJenny
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    Riding the Sagano Romantic Train was a relaxing and unforgettable journey. The train slowly traveled through the Hozugawa River gorge, offering sweeping views of the mountains, forests, and river valley and a sense of Kyoto's natural beauty throughout the seasons. With the gentle breeze and ever-changing scenery outside the window, I felt especially happy. Although the ride wasn't long, it left a lasting impression. It's a train journey worth savoring and added a wonderful memory to my Kyoto trip.

  • AYAKO
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    The Sagano Kameoka romantic train has such a nostalgic feel.
    The cars themselves don’t have windows, so you can enjoy the breeze while taking in the ravine and forest outside. It’s totally relaxing, and I really recommend trying it!

  • Ming Ming
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    You get to enjoy the outdoor scenery the whole way. The staff even sing and interact with passengers, which makes for a fantastic atmosphere. Totally worth checking out!

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Details

Name in Japanese
嵯峨野トロッコ列車
Postal Code
616-8373
Address
Torokko Saga Station, Saga Tenryuji Kurumamichicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Phone
075-861-7444
Closed on
Irregular closures (check the official website); no service from December 30 through February
Hours
9:02 a.m. (first departure from Torokko Saga)–5:38 p.m. (last departure from Torokko Kameoka)
Hours are extended on days when additional trains operate; check the official website for details
Admission
One-way fare: Adults ¥880; children of elementary school age ¥440
Access
Just a short walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station (Torokko Saga Station)
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official website
Official website (Japanese)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa