Easiest Way to Enjoy Sagano Romantic Train with Perfect Map
Masaya Osada
Latest posts by Masaya Osada (see all)
While Kyoto has many famous tourists sites, Sagano Romantic Train is a hidden gem that allows you to experience Japan’s beauty from a different light that is definitely worth trying out. However, many foreign tourists suffer from complicated routes of how to go and return for Sagano Romantic Train. But don’ worry, I promise you to make everything clear with the following instructions.
Contents
What is Sagano Romantic Train?
Sagano Romantic Train is a train that connects Saga-Arashiyama Station and Kameoka Station. The Hozu River Valley that changes its scenery depending on the time of the four seasons has made this ride a coveted experience by fans. From cherry blossoms in full bloom in the spring, the refreshing green in the summer, the breathtaking autumn maples in the fall, and the gorgeous forest-covered view in winter, the ride presents a completely different view every time you ride on it, depending on the time of the year.
Where to Buy the Sagano Romantic Train Ticket
All of the seats on the train are reserved and there are several ways of reserving it. You can purchase a reserved ticket that cost only 620 yen for an adult at the Midori-no-Madoguchi counters (literally means Green Ticket Office) at major JR West stations (such as JR Kyoto Station and JR Osaka Station) or at major domestic travel agencies.
The reserved tickets are offered from 10 A.M. on the day a month before the date of the train ride. You can also reserve tickets at Central Japan Travel Center at Chubu Centrair International Airport, Central Japan Travel Center at Chubu Centrair International Airport. One thing to note is that the tickets are highly popular, so it is best to purchase it prior to your visit. This is especially true during the peak season when the cherry blossoms in April and the autumn maples in November, as sagano romantic train tickets are sold out for sure if you try to purchase it on the day of your visit as the below.
“The Rich” car No. 5 tickets can be purchased on the day itself, which is the option recommended by the company. Although you can also exchange the standard ticket, you purchased in advance, and at any Torokko Station on the day of the ride, there is a possibility that the company will not accept any exchanges due to the high demand of seats. Another thing to remember is that you cannot use the JR Rail Pass for the Sagano Scenic Railway. However, you can use it if you are going back to other JR stations such as JR Saga-Arashiyama Station or JR Kyoto Station from JR Kameoka Station, instead of getting on the famous Hozugawa-Kudari River Boat Ride on the way back. Although there are standing seats that are occasionally sold, we do not recommend this as it prevents from others enjoying the view. Note that the train ride will be closed from December 30th, until the end of February.
Sagano Romantic Train English Website: http://www.sagano-kanko.co.jp/en/
Hozugawa-Kudari River Boat Ride on the Way Back is our Top Recommendation
To get the best of both worlds, we recommend riding the trolley to go up and the Hozugawa-Kudari River Boat Ride to go down. The Hozugawa-Kudari River Boat Ride is a historic boat ride that has been carried out for centuries. Guests get to enjoy a 16 km ride that spans for two hours from Tanba-Kameoka to Arashiyama. The rapids and the deep pools are breathtaking and are sure to be an unforgettable experience. What’s better is that all you need to do to purchase a ticket is to simply go to the boarding site. Makes sure to bring cash with you as they only accept cash for payments. For those who are feeling hesitant to get on the boat ride during the winter, we have good news for you. There is a heated tatami-floored boat that operates in the winter from early December until March 9th, which can be reserved starting from a single person. The regular boat that runs from March 10th until early December can be reserved starting from a group of ten. However, since reservations can only be made by phone, it is much easier to simply go to the boarding site on the day you ride.
Hozugawa-Kudari River Boat Ride English Website: https://www.hozugawakudari.jp/en
If you are interested in Arashiyama, please check here:
Delight in the magnificent Bamboo Forest – Arashiyama, Kyoto
Cap off your scenic journey on the Sagano Romantic Train with the Hochoshiki Knife Ceremony, where the time-honored art of Japanese knife-making comes to life, offering a deeper connection to Kyoto’s traditions.
https://www.hochoshiki-knifeceremony.com/
A sacred place for Japanese food, a treasure house of ingredients, Minami-Boso Takaya Shrine Kitchen knife ceremony "Ryumon-no-Koi" long story: edited by Minamiboso City Tourism Association Channel
The most efficient route for you! (with Google Maps)
You have two options. If you have enough time and budget, you should definitely try the Hozugawa-Kudari River Boat as the right side shows. Or if you stick to using Japan Rail Pass, you should use JR line when you return by following the left side.
With the scenic views that change its appearance every season in a historically and culturally rich area, Sagano Romantic Train definitely makes it worth the trip to Arashiyama. Enjoy the breathtaking splendor of nature in Kyoto through the romantic ride of Sagano Romantic Train.
Make an online reservation to have a precious time with Geisha!