Sagano Romantic Train Ticket: Saga to/from Kameoka

About this experience

Sagano Romantic Train Ticket: Saga to Kameoka The Sagano Romantic Train offers one of Kyoto's most scenic railway journeys, connecting Saga (Arashiyama) to Kameoka through 7.3 kilometres of stunning river valley landscape. This vintage train ride takes you along the Hozugawa River, past dramatic cliffs and forested mountains in restored carriages that recall early 20th-century rail travel. Perfect for visitors wanting to experience Kyoto's natural beauty beyond the temples and gardens, this 25-minute journey showcases the region's seasonal colours. Start from Saga station near the famous bamboo groves, or catch the return service from rural Kameoka. All seats are reserved, and mobile tickets mean you can board directly without queuing at ticket offices. How It Works Your Sagano train transfer operates with simple booking and boarding: Present your mobile e-ticket at the station gate to board Trains depart hourly from 9:02am (Saga) and 9:30am (Kameoka) Final departures run shortly after 4pm from both stations Journey time is approximately 25 minutes each way All seats are pre-assigned with river and mountain views Choose standard carriages or Car No. 5 "The Rich" open-air option You can disembark at Arashiyama station to visit the Sagano Bamboo Forest, though you cannot reboard using the same ticket. For a complete Arashiyama experience, consider the bamboo forest walking tours that start nearby. Good to Know Groups may be assigned seats in different parts of the train depending on availability when booking. Car No. 5 features open-air seating with wooden benches and no glass windows, offering an immersive experience with mountain breezes and river sounds, but you will get wet in rain. Umbrellas are not permitted in the open-air carriage during rainy weather. The train runs year-round showcasing seasonal highlights: cherry blossoms in spring, green canopies in summer, autumn foliage, and occasional winter snow scenes. Free cancellation is available, and the route connects well with other Kyoto transport options. If you're planning multiple Kyoto attractions, the Kyoto transport passes can help with onward travel from either station.

Highlights

• Scenic 7.3 km railway runs alongside the Hozugawa River valley
• Restored vintage carriages recalling early 20th-century rail travel
• Pass towering cliffs and dense forested mountains throughout the ride
• Connects Saga Arashiyama and Kameoka through a dramatic river gorge
• Discover Kyoto's natural landscape away from the main temple circuit
• Tickets valid for one-way or return journeys between both stations

What is included

• Train ticket for the Saga to Kameoka scenic journey
• 25-minute ride through the Hozugawa River valley
• Travel in restored vintage early 20th-century carriages

Not included

• Food, drinks, or on-board refreshments
• Connecting transport to or from Saga station
• Live or audio guide commentary during the journey
• Gratuities or tips of any kind

Before you go

Trains operate hourly from morning to late afternoon; check the current timetable before planning your trip Each reservation accommodates up to 4 guests with pre-assigned seating Be prepared for weather changes if riding in the open-air car; it is not protected from rain Board with your mobile e-ticket directly at Saga or Kameoka stations Getting off the train mid-route invalidates the rest of your journey on the same ticket

Cancellation terms

Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the start of your experience. Within 48 hours of the start, the booking cannot be cancelled.