Sagano Scenic Railway used to be part of JR Sagano Line but the tracks were abandoned when a more direct route was built. They were bought by Sagano Scenic Railway, and now you can ride the red and yellow 'Romantic Train' from Arashiyama to Kameoka. You can travel return, but many people choose to ride the tourist boats down the Hozu River back to Arashiyama. Whichever option you choose you will enjoy the stunning scenery of the Hozu River Gorge. These photos were taken in summertime, but the scene is even more stunning in spring when clouds of pale pink sakura seem to float on the hillsides, and in autumn when the trees burn with red, orange and yellow.
- 1 min read
Arashiyama's Romantic Train
Enjoy the stunning scenery of Sagano Scenic Railway
By Cathy Cawood
Community writer
The 'Romantic Train' traveling through Hozugawa Gorge
The Japanese writing says "Sagano", the name of this beautiful area of Kyoto
Our friendly conductor
A red and black engine pulls the 'Romantic Train'
Tourist boats on Hozu River
Tanuki statues lined up at Hozukyo Trokko Station
Passengers enjoying the scenery
Hozu River Gorge
Red and yellow carriages travel along a winding track
Breath-taking river scenery
Glimpse of Hozu River through the trees as we approach Arashiyama
There are some fabulous ryoukans (traditional hotels) beside the river
End of the line - Kameoka Trokko Station
Join the discussion
Victoria Vlisides
9 years ago
Nice photos, Cathy!
Relinda Puspita
11 years ago
I loved viewing the scenery while on the boat.
I haven't done the boat trip, but I really want to!
James Forest
12 years ago
Nice pics. I like the scenic shots out the window.
4 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1Ultimate Fukuoka Food Guide: Hakata Ramen, Yatai Culture & Beyond
Fukuoka - Sponsored -
2Shopping in Ginza: 10 Unexpected Finds at Matsuya Ginza
Tokyo - Sponsored -
3Inside Nagasaki’s Tea World with Nagasaki Ikedoki Tea Tours
Nagasaki - Sponsored -
4A Vegan Visit to Fukuoka
Fukuoka - Sponsored -
5An All-Inclusive Osaka Escape With KAMENOI HOTEL TONDABAYASHI ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT
Osaka - Sponsored -
6Izu Kogen: Japan’s Most Dog-Friendly Destination
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
7Exploring Japan Through the Seasons: Three First-Time Classic Tours
Culture -
8Exploring Tokyo’s Food Culture
Tokyo - Sponsored -
9Explore Hakodate’s Gourmet Food and Markets
Hokkaido - Sponsored -
10Nature, Art, and Culture Along an Ancient Route
Culture - Sponsored
-
1Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2Guide to Suica Cards in Japan
Transportation -
3Akishinodera Temple
Nara -
4Tax-free Shopping in Japan: 2026 Changes
Planning -
5The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
6Punch the Monkey: Japan's Viral Baby Macaque
Chiba -
7May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
9Ghibli Museum: How To Get Tickets (2026 Guide)
Culture -
10Japanese Urban Legends
Culture