Sagano Scenic Railway

Attraction

Part of Arashiyama

Prefecture

Kyoto

Type

Attraction

N/A

0 reviews

¥880

Entry Fee

Train Access

About This Destination

A 25-minute open-air sightseeing train running along the Hozu River gorge between Saga and Kameoka. Cherry blossoms in spring and fiery foliage in autumn make this one of Kyoto's most popular seasonal attractions. Book early in peak seasons.

Board an open-air trolley car for a magical 25-minute journey through the Hozu River gorge, where sheer cliffs, rushing rapids, and forested mountainsides create constantly changing scenery outside your window. The retro locomotive runs along a disused section of the original San'in Main Line, crossing bridges and passing through tunnels as it descends from Saga to Kameoka. Cherry blossoms and autumn leaves transform the gorge into natural spectacles, while winter brings special illuminated trains through the darkened valley.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: Torokko Saga Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Sagano Scenic Railway?

Boarding stations are at Torokko Saga (next to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, 5 minutes' walk west of the bamboo grove), Torokko Arashiyama (between the bamboo grove and the gondola), and Torokko Kameoka (next to JR Umahori Station, paired with the Hozugawa River Boat Ride). Most visitors board at Torokko Saga and ride to Kameoka, then return to Arashiyama by JR or by river boat.

Do I need to book in advance?

Strongly recommended for cherry blossom (early April), autumn foliage (mid-November), and weekends. Tickets go on sale 1 month in advance via the official website or JR ticket counters across Japan. The popular open-air car (Car 5, called 'The Rich' or richgo) sells out fastest. Without a reservation, same-day tickets are released at the station from 8:35 AM but often sell out quickly in peak seasons. Closed Wednesdays and December 30–February 28.

What's the train experience like?

The 7.3 km journey takes about 25 minutes one way, descending gently through the Hozukyo Gorge over the Hozu River. The train has 5 cars; cars 1–4 are enclosed with heating and AC, while car 5 ('The Rich' open-air car) has only roof and no windows — best in mild weather. Conductors give cheerful Japanese commentary; English signage at major viewpoints. Adult fare is 880 yen one way, children 440 yen. Rides operate roughly hourly from 9:02 AM.

When is the best time to ride the Sagano Scenic Railway?

Mid-November for autumn foliage and early April for cherry blossoms are the seasons — book 4–6 weeks ahead. Late summer (mid-August through September) brings deep greens and lighter crowds. December 23–early January often features special illuminated 'Light-Up' trains running through the gorge after dark. Avoid days after heavy rain (services may be suspended) and Wednesday closures.