The Sagano Romantic Train is one of Kyoto’s most famous sightseeing trains. Departing from the Arashiyama District, the train follows the Hozugawa River between Saga-Arashiyama and Kameoka. The Romantic train has been a sightseeing icon in Kyoto since 1991, and is a popular experience for many visitors.

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The approximately 25-minute journey travels along a former JR railway line through the Hozugawa Gorge, passing steep mountains, forests and the river below. Rather than being a practical means of transportation, the train is intended primarily as a scenic attraction, with large windows and open-air cars providing views of the surrounding landscape. The train takes passengers through the gorge, and loosely follows the course of the Hozugawa River.

Best Season for the Sagano Romantic Train.

Autumn is the most popular season for the Sagano Romantic Train, when the journey offers unforgettable views of the valley surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. Another popular season is spring, when cherry blossoms line the tracks and gorge. During these busy seasons, we highly recommend pre-booking tickets to ensure availability.

Journey Map

The railway begins at Torokko Saga Station, next to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, and runs west through the mountains to Torokko Kameoka Station. Along the way it passes Torokko Arashiyama and Torokko Hozukyo stations. The most scenic section is between Arashiyama and Kameoka, where the railway follows the Hozugawa River through a narrow gorge. The train crosses bridges and passes through several tunnels as it snakes it’s way through the valley, loosely following the river’s course.

Most Popular Route

While you can take the train from Saga Torokko Station through to Torokko Kameoka Station, and back on the next departure, many travellers only take the Romantic Train from Arashiyama through to Kameoka. From Kameoka, one of the most popular ways to return to Kyoto is via the Hozugawa River Boat experience back through the valley, ending back in Arashiyama. This journey takes you through the valley, slowly navigating through the river and down gentle rapids.

Ticket & Departure Information

Tickets for the Sagano Romantic Train start from 880 yen one way. There are no return tickets available, so you’ll have to purchase a one way ticket in both directions if you plan on taking the train back to your starting station. The first trains service typically starts from 9:02am, through to 4:30pm, departing Arashiyama at 2 minutes past the hour, and Kameoka at half-past.