Sagano Romantic Train
The Sagano Romantic Train is one of the most popular attractions in Kyoto, Japan.
And no wonder — what could be more magical than taking in beautiful Japanese landscapes on a romantic train ride?
The Sagano Romantic Train, also known as the Sagano Scenic Railway, runs between Saga Torokko Station in Arashiyama to Kameoka Torokko Station in Kameoka. It is a must-add to your Arashiyama itinerary!
This highly-rated tour from Osaka or Kyoto allows you to experience both the Sagano Train and the Hozugawa River Boat Ride, with time afterwards to explore other Arashiyama attractions! 🚂 🛶
The train covers the journey of just over 7 kilometers (about 4.5 miles) in about 25 minutes, giving you ample opportunity to appreciate the views as you chug along.
Many visitors take the Sagano Romantic Train one way, and a boat trip through the Hozukyo Gorge on the return.
Planning a trip to the famous grove? Visit our Arashiyama Bamboo Forest home page for the complete rundown on every single detail!
And if you’re just starting to plan your visit to Japan, check out some of the top things to do in Japan, many of which you absolutely don’t want to miss!
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What is the Sagano Romantic Train?
A vintage diesel locomotive, the Sagano Romantic Train has one open car and four enclosed cars.
The open car, called the “rich” car, allows you to take in the sounds of the valley and enjoy the breeze.
Each car is fitted with wooden benches, and the windows open for photos.
The brightly colored train, in classic red and yellow, stands out against the backdrop, making for gorgeous photos.
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Brief History of the Sagano Scenic Railway, Arashiyama, Kyoto
The train line opened all the way back in 1899 and was originally a part of the Kyoto Railway main line that connected Kyoto to Sonobe. It used to carry freight to hard-to-access places.
The Sagano Scenic Railway was established in 1990.
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Enjoy the Sagano Romantic Train in Every Season!
The Sagano Romantic Train winds its way through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Kyoto as it traverses the Hozukyo Gorge.
Mountains offer a beautiful backdrop and the Hozu River runs through the gorge.
Spring is a fabulous time to ride the Sagano Romantic Train, especially if you time your trip to peak cherry blossom bloom time!
The clouds of pink blossoms contrast with fresh green leaves for sensational photos. In places, the blossoms almost create a pretty pink tunnel!
In the summer, the valley is a beautiful green, and the Hozu River bubbles alongside. It is a very serene sight!
In the fall, the valley is draped in brilliant red, orange, and yellow, making it one of the best times for this romantic train ride. Stations along the route are illuminated, so consider an after-dark ride!
Illuminations are also offered in the winter, and if you are lucky, you may be greeted with snow on your Sagano Romantic Train journey.
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Where can you access the Sagano Romantic Train?
For visitors to Arashiyama, it is easy to start your Sagano Romantic Train journey at the Saga Torokko Station.
The Saga Torokko Station is the building right next to the Saga Arashiyama Station.
Love trains? Arrive a few minutes early and spend some time viewing the old locomotives on display at the museum in Saga Torokko Station!
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Sagano Romantic Train Ticket
You can buy your Sagano Romantic Train ticket at the station on the day of your journey.
But the number of tickets remaining on the day of departure is often limited and you risk not being able to enjoy the beautiful journey if you wait.
If you’d like to save time on the day of your trip and have a confirmed spot on the ride you want to take, book your Sagano Romantic Train ticket online in advance!
You cannot use your Japan Rail pass for the Sagano Romantic Train.
Prefer to leave the details to someone else? This guided tour from Kyoto or Osaka covers Arashiyama, the Sagano Romantic Train, and Fushimi Inari!
Sagano Romantic Train Reservation
The Sagano Romantic Train is a very popular attraction in Kyoto, and journeys may get fully booked up, especially during cherry blossom season or peak fall foliage time.
It is prudent to make your Sagano Romantic Train reservation online in advance.
Sagano Romantic Train Price
At the time of writing, the standard one-way adult fare for the Sagano Romantic Train is 880 yen (a little under USD 6), and the standard child fare is 400 yen (USD 2.65).
Sagano Romantic Train Schedule
Check the Sagano Scenic Railway schedule here.
The train is unquestionably the best way to get around Japan. Click to get your Japan Rail Pass now!