Hozugawa River Boat Ride

Attraction

Part of Arashiyama

Prefecture

Kyoto

Type

Attraction

N/A

0 reviews

¥4,100

Entry Fee

Train Access

About This Destination

A two-hour wooden boat ride down the Hozu River from Kameoka to Arashiyama, navigating gentle rapids through a forested gorge. A perfect pairing with the Sagano Scenic Railway for a round trip. Operates year-round with heated kotatsu boats in winter.

Skilled boatmen navigate traditional wooden vessels through the Hozu River's exciting rapids and serene pools on this two-hour journey to Arashiyama. The adventure begins in Kameoka, where passengers board flat-bottomed boats that twist through narrow gorges, past rocky outcrops, and beneath towering cliffs while boatmen pole and row with remarkable precision. Wildlife sightings, seasonal foliage, and the thrill of gentle white water combine for one of Kyoto's most memorable excursions.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: Kameoka Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Hozugawa River Boat Ride starting point?

Boats depart from Kameoka Hozugawa-Kudari Norikiba (boarding place), about a 10-minute walk from JR Kameoka Station. The most popular round-trip is: take the JR San'in Line or the Sagano Scenic Railway from Saga-Arashiyama to Kameoka (15–25 minutes), board the river boat downstream to Arashiyama (2 hours), and arrive at Togetsukyo Bridge — no need for a return train ticket. The boat boarding place runs a free shuttle bus from JR Kameoka Station.

How long is the boat ride and what's the experience like?

The full ride is about 2 hours covering 16 km from Kameoka to Arashiyama. Three boatmen pole, row, and rudder a flat-bottomed wooden boat through gentle rapids, deep pools, and dramatic gorges. Their humorous Japanese commentary keeps it lively (English summaries at key spots). Highlights: the Lion's Mouth Rock, the Snake Trap rapids, and a vendor boat that pulls alongside near the end selling oden, ramen, and beer.

What's the cost and is reservation required?

Adult fare is 4,500 yen (raised from 4,100 in 2024), children 3,000 yen, kids under 4 free. Reservations are recommended for cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons and weekends — book through the official website (English available) or by phone. Walk-ups are accepted when seats remain. Service runs daily from March 10 to December 9 (warm-weather wooden boats) and December 10 to March 9 (heated 'kotatsu' boats with leg blankets, smaller capacity, reservation required).

Is the boat ride safe and family-friendly?

Yes — the boat is large (about 25 passengers), wide and flat-bottomed, and rapids are class I–II (gentle). Life vests are provided and required. You will get splashed at a few points; bring a light raincoat or rain cover for cameras (rentable on board for 100 yen). Children of all ages are welcome. The ride is suspended after heavy rain due to high water levels — check the official site the morning of your visit. Service can also pause briefly during typhoons or floods.