Sagano Railway

The Sagano Scenic Railway (also known as the Sagano Romantic Train or Sagano Torokko) is a sightseeing train line that runs along the Hozugawa River between Arashiyama and Kameoka. Its charming, old fashioned trains wind their way through the mountains at a relatively slow pace, taking about 25 minutes to make the seven kilometer journey and giving passengers a pleasant view of the scenery as they travel from Arashiyama through the forested ravine and into rural Kameoka.

Originally part of the JR Sanin Line before it was replaced by a faster, straighter route in 1989, the scenic railway route was preserved and outfitted with nostalgic trains featuring wooden benches. The views along the line change with the seasons, and the train is particularly popular during the autumn color season from mid November to early December when the leaves along the ravine change color. Trains do not operate in winter from December 31 to the end of February.

Each train is made up of four enclosed cars (with windows that can be opened) and one fully open car. All seats are reserved, although standing tickets are sold if the seats are full. Tickets can be purchased at Torokko Saga Station, or at JR ticket offices in the Kansai Region. It is recommended to buy tickets early to ensure a seat during the peak seasons. There is no discount for round trip tickets. A small train museum and diorama can also be found at Torokko Saga Station (separate entry fees apply).

Travelers have several options once they reach Torokko Kameoka Station, the terminal station of the line. They can take the sightseeing train back to Arashiyama or walk five minutes to nearby Umahori Station from where they can catch a JR train back to Arashiyama or Kyoto. Last but not least, many travelers combine the sightseeing train with a Hozugawa River Cruise back to Arashiyama. A bus connects the train station to the departure point for the cruises.