The Sagano Romantic Train is a delightful sightseeing train run by Sagano Scenic Railway in the Saga-Arashiyama area of western Kyoto. The train is also called the “Sagano Torokko Ressha” in Japanese. “Torokko ressha” means “truck train” and it is named so after the railway truck cars that used to haul freight along the route.
The Sagano Romantic Train passing sakura trees in bloom
The railway runs old fashioned trains on a 19th century narrow gauge railway through picturesque countryside between Saga-Arashiyama and Kameoka. On the way, the train runs along the Hozugawa River gorge, offering fantastic views of the forests and mountains. It is a particularly popular course during the autumn foliage season, but in the spring passengers can enjoy the cherry blossoms, in the summer a cool breeze and the sound of cicadas, and in the winter dramatic snowy landscapes.
Sagano Scenic Railway has announced that it will introduce a new train design in the spring of 2027. The existing trains, which are notable for their bright red and yellow livery and old-fashioned charm, are to be replaced by trains with advanced safety features and a sleek new design.
Recommended Courses
From Saga to Kameoka
The most popular route is from Saga Torokko Station to Kameoka Torokko Station. Saga Torokko Station is right next to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, which is easily reached from Kyoto Station.
From Kyoto Station take the JR Sagano Line to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. The journey takes 17 minutes and the fare is 240 yen. You can then transfer to the Saga Torokko Station for the Torokko Train. Between Saga and Kameoka the train takes about 25 minutes.
Once the train reaches Kameoka Torokko Station you have a number of options. You could simply take the sightseeing train straight back to Saga Torokko Station, but a more popular choice is to make the return journey by boat back down the Hozugawa River. Shuttle buses from Kameoka Torokko Station transfer passengers to the boat departure point. Then boatmen with long bamboo poles will guide you down the river, through the scenic valley and some mild rapids. It is a two-hour cruise along a 16 kilometer course, and along the way another boat with an engine will pull up alongside the tour boat and sell drinks and snacks to the passengers. Tickets are 6,000 yen for adults, and 4,500 yen for children from infancy through elementary school age. The boat operator accepts online reservations, and same-day arrangements for the train-and-boat combination can also be made at the Hozugawa-kudari counter inside Saga Torokko Station when space remains. Boats normally operate in rain with a cover, but services are suspended in stormy weather or when the river is too high. For details, see the Hozugawa-kudari River Boat Ride website.
Alternatively, if you are pressed for time, you can take a quick route back by transferring from Kameoka Torokko Station to nearby JR Umahori Station. From there, local trains can take you back to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station in about 7 minutes, or straight back to Kyoto Station in about 23 minutes. Check a route finder before travel for JR fares and departure times.
From Arashiyama to Kameoka
It is also possible to follow the same course, but board the sightseeing train at Arashiyama Torokko Station, 3 minutes further down the line from Saga Torokko Station. This station is located near to Jojakkoji Temple and the Sagano Bamboo Forest, popular tourist spots in the area. If you happen to be sightseeing in this area, this station might be more convenient for you. The ticket counter at Arashiyama Torokko Station opens from around 8:50 am. However, there are about 60 steps between the ticket gate and platform and no elevator, so Saga Torokko Station is the better boarding point for wheelchair users, travelers with walking sticks, or anyone who wants easier access.
From Kameoka to Arashiyama & Saga
To follow the course in reverse, take a train from Kyoto Station to JR Umahori Station, and then transfer to Kameoka Torokko Station. You can then get off at either Arashiyama Torokko Station, or Saga Torokko Station. Arashiyama Torokko Station is convenient for tourist spots like Jojakkoji Temple, Tenryuji Temple and the famous bamboo forest. For area information, see Sagano Scenic Railway’s official nearby sightseeing spots guide, which covers the Saga, Arashiyama, Hozukyo, and Kameoka areas. The ticket counter at Kameoka Torokko Station opens from around 9:10 am.
Tickets, Schedule & Availability
One way tickets are 880 yen for adults and 440 yen for children. Regular trains from Torokko Saga to Torokko Kameoka depart hourly from 9:02 to 16:02, with extra late-afternoon or evening trains on selected days. Regular return trains from Torokko Kameoka to Torokko Saga depart hourly from 9:30 to 16:30, again with extra services on selected days. Always check the official timetable and operating calendar before making a plan, especially in spring, autumn, and around holidays.
The Sagano Scenic Railway generally operates from March to late December. There is no train service in January and February. The railway is usually closed on Wednesdays, however it is open if the Wednesday falls on a national holiday. During peak periods such as spring and summer vacation and the autumn foliage season, from mid-November to early December, the railway may also operate services on Wednesdays. Operating days and special-train dates may change, so confirm the official calendar before travel.
Individual tickets can be purchased in advance on the official Sagano Scenic Railway website from midnight one month before the boarding date. Online tickets are reserved for a specific train, car, and seat, and the e-ticket QR code must be shown on a smartphone on the day of travel. Same-day tickets are sold first-come, first-served at the Torokko Saga, Torokko Arashiyama, and Torokko Kameoka station counters, but not at Torokko Hozukyo Station. A limited number of standing tickets may be sold after reserved seats sell out. During peak periods, the trains are very busy, so it is a good idea to reserve tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
At Saga Torokko Station
Saga Torokko Station has a museum with historical locomotives on display, including an old steam engine. There is also a large scale railway diorama featuring the famous sites of Kyoto. Drinks, snacks and souvenirs can be purchased in the rest area. There is also a café in the museum. The ticket counter at Saga Torokko Station opens from around 8:35 am.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Sagano Romantic Train operate each year and which days is it closed?
The Sagano Romantic Train generally operates from March to late December. The line is normally closed in January and February because of winter conditions. The train is usually not operating on Wednesdays, although the operator sometimes runs special services during peak seasons such as Golden Week, autumn foliage season, and selected holiday periods.
Because the exact operating calendar changes each year, passengers should confirm the schedule on the official Sagano Scenic Railway website, which provides the timetable, seasonal closure dates, and any special operation notices.
How can I buy Sagano Romantic Train tickets and when do reservations open?
Tickets are sold as reserved seats, and each ticket is valid for a specific train and a specific seat. Individual tickets can be purchased online from midnight one month before the boarding date.
Tickets can be purchased through the official Sagano Scenic Railway website, which is the primary and most accurate source for availability. Same-day tickets are sold first-come, first-served at the Torokko Saga, Torokko Arashiyama, and Torokko Kameoka station counters when seats remain, but not at Torokko Hozukyo Station. A limited number of standing tickets may be sold after reserved seats sell out.
Which side of the Sagano Romantic Train has the best river views?
The most scenic views are usually on the Hozu River side of the train. When traveling from Saga to Kameoka, this is typically the left side. When traveling from Kameoka back to Saga, the river views are usually on the right side.
Because the route runs along the Hozu River gorge, passengers on the river side see closer views of cliffs, water, and seasonal foliage. However, the scenery is attractive on both sides, and the open air nature of Car 5 allows a wider field of view.
What is Car 5 The Rich and how is it different from the standard cars?
Car 5, known as The Rich, is the open-air observation car. It has no windows and a glass ceiling, so it gives a wider sense of the Hozu River valley and the sound of the locomotive. It is especially popular during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Because the car is exposed to the weather, the inside may get wet in rain, umbrellas are not allowed on board, and rain itself is not a reason for a refund. Bring a raincoat if the forecast is uncertain. Tickets for Car 5 are usually in high demand.
How do I get to Saga Torokko Station from Kyoto Station?
Saga Torokko Station sits next to JR Saga Arashiyama Station. The simplest route from Kyoto Station is the JR Sagano Line (also known as the JR Sanin Line). The ride usually takes about 15 minutes on a local or rapid train.
After arriving at JR Saga Arashiyama Station, exit the JR gates and follow the signs to Saga Torokko Station, which is located immediately beside the JR platforms. The walk takes about one minute.
Can I combine the Sagano Romantic Train with the Hozugawa River Boat Ride?
Yes. Many visitors pair the Sagano Romantic Train with the Hozugawa River Boat Ride for a scenic round trip experience through the Hozu River valley.
A common combination is to ride the train from Saga to Kameoka, then walk or take local transport to the Hozugawa River Boat boarding point. After the river cruise, the boats return to the Arashiyama area, which places visitors close to temples, the bamboo forest, and sightseeing paths. Boat services may be suspended in stormy weather or when the river is too high, so check the boat operator’s status notices if the weather is unsettled.
Is the Sagano Romantic Train suitable for families, strollers, or wheelchairs?
The train is family friendly and popular with children, but the experience includes steps at some stations, and access conditions vary by location. There are two designated spaces for wheelchairs on Cars No. 3 and No. 5. Contact the railway operator after you have purchased the tickets to verify the availability of the designated spaces in advance.
Torokko Arashiyama Station has about 60 steps between the ticket gate and platform and no elevator, so Saga Torokko Station is usually the better boarding point for travelers who need easier access.
Only folded baby strollers are allowed on board.
How long is the Sagano Romantic Train ride and what scenery can I expect in each season?
The Sagano Romantic Train covers approximately 7 kilometers, and the journey takes about 25 minutes each way. The route follows the Hozu River gorge, which offers continuously changing scenery.
Typical seasonal highlights include:
- Spring: Cherry blossoms along the river valley
- Early summer: Bright green leaves and clear river water
- Summer: Deep green forests and higher water levels
- Autumn: Intense red and gold foliage, the busiest season
- Winter: Snow covered valley views
What should I do if Sagano Romantic Train tickets are sold out?
If advance reservations are sold out, travellers have several options:
- Check the official online reservation page again because seats can reopen when other customers change plans.
- If your itinerary is flexible, check different trains, both travel directions, and nearby dates.
- Check same-day ticket availability at Torokko Saga, Torokko Arashiyama, and Torokko Kameoka station counters. Same-day tickets are sold first-come, first-served when seats remain.
- Ask about standing tickets at the station counter. A limited number may be sold after reserved seats sell out.
- During cherry blossom and autumn foliage periods, book as early as possible.
Article and original photos by Michael Lambe. All rights reserved. Last updated 04-Jul-2026.
