Sagano romantic train, Settsu Travel Guide

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Experience Kyoto's stunning scenery aboard the Sagano Romantic Train, a vintage railway journey through the heart of Arashiyama.

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Sagano romantic train

The Sagano Romantic Train, also known as the Sagano Scenic Railway, offers a picturesque 25-minute ride along the Hozugawa River between Arashiyama and Kameoka. This charming train winds through the mountains, providing stunning views of the forested ravine and rural landscapes.

A brief summary to Sagano romantic train

Sagatenryuji Kurumamichicho, Kyoto, Sagatenryuji Kurumamichicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8373, JP
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Monday 9 am-4 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
Thursday 9 am-4 pm
Friday 9 am-4 pm
Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Sunday 9 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sagano romantic train.

Purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom or autumn foliage, to ensure a seat.
For the best views, try to reserve seats on the right side of the train when departing from Saga Torokko Station.
Consider riding in the open-air car (Car No. 5) for an immersive experience, but be prepared for varying weather conditions.
Combine the train ride with a Hozugawa River boat ride for a scenic return trip to Arashiyama.
Check the Sagano Scenic Railway's official website for the most up-to-date schedules and seasonal closures.

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Explore Sagano romantic train on the Map

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Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Sagano Romantic Train's Saga Torokko Station, take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. The journey takes approximately 15-17 minutes and costs around ¥240. Upon arrival at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, exit through the South Exit and walk a short distance to the adjacent Saga Torokko Station. From Shijo or Karasuma Station, take the Kyoto Municipal Subway to Kyoto Station, then transfer to the JR Sagano Line to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station for approximately ¥420.
Walking

From the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, walk north towards Saga-Arashiyama. Follow the signs for Saga Torokko Station. The walk is approximately 1.5 - 2 kilometers and should take around 20-30 minutes. The path is mostly flat and offers scenic views of the surrounding area.

Discover more about Sagano romantic train

The Sagano Romantic Train, or Sagano Scenic Railway, is a delightful sightseeing train that runs through the Saga-Arashiyama area in western Kyoto. The train, also called “Sagano Torokko Ressha” in Japanese, travels along a 19th-century narrow-gauge railway, offering breathtaking views of the Hozugawa River gorge, lush forests, and majestic mountains.The railway opened in 1899 as part of the main line of the Kyoto Railway, connecting Kyoto to Sonobe. In 1990, the Sagano Scenic Railway Co., Ltd. was established to utilize the rail tracks no longer in use due to the double-tracked JR San-in Line for sightseeing. The old-fashioned train is fitted with wooden benches and has a single open car and four enclosed cars, with windows that can be opened for photographs.The diesel locomotive winds its way through the mountains at a leisurely pace, making the 7.3-kilometer run along Hozukyo Gorge. The views change with the seasons, offering cherry blossoms in spring, verdant green landscapes in summer, and fiery autumn colors. During its limited winter season, the train rolls through a landscape lightly dusted with snow.At Saga Torokko Station, a museum displays historical locomotives, including an old steam engine. The large-scale railway diorama, including famous Kyoto sites, is worth exploring.