Sagano Scenic Railway/Sagano Torokko (Sagano Romantic Train), Arashiyama

The Sagano Scenic Railway is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of western Kyoto, which is mostly known for the Arashiyama area. Known also as the Sagano Torokko or Sagano Romantic Train, this retrofited old-fashioned stream train takes you beyond Arashiyama for a perfect escape from the busy cities and crowded spots of the rest of Japan.

This railway now runs old fashioned trains on a 19th century narrow gauge railway through picturesque countryside between Saga-Arashiyama and 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. The journey takes 17 minutes and the fare is 240 yen.

While the Sagano Scenic Railway is not covered by your Japan Rail Pass, the trip is worth the small extra cost. You may purchase tickets at the Saga-Arashiyama Station or at any Japan Rail ticket office in the Kansai region. An adult one-way ticket between the Torokko Kameoka and Torokko Saga Stations costs ¥620, and a children’s ticket costs ¥300. Return tickets cost the same. Most tickets are sold for reserved seating; however, standing room only tickets may be sold during especially busy times. If you are traveling during the spring or autumn and wish to be ensured a seat, purchase your tickets in advance of your trip. 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).

"Sagano Romantic Train" refers to a series of wagon-style train, originally used as a small freight train to carry cargo running on tracks laid in areas where cars and standard trains couldn't operate.It's a simple freight car that chugs along at a leisurely pace.The Sagano Romantic train embodies that spirit. 

If your kid can seat on your lap, then you do not need to buy a child ticket for your kid. That's how you save your money when travelling with your kid.

The trains of the Sagano Scenic Railway operates from March 1 to December 29 each year. Guests can enjoy the Sagano line Thursday through Tuesday of each week. Please not that he trains do not run during the winter season, nor on Wednesdays during the spring, summer, and fall. The trains depart once per hour from 9.00am - 5.00pm.

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.

The Sagano Sagano Romantic features classical coloring.The diesel engine pulls the train through the ravine and tugs at nostalgic heartstrings along the way. Wooden seats and bare light bulbs adorn each of the five cars in an art-deco style.The train will pull you away from modern comforts and into the extraordinary, where you can feel and hear the surrounding nature.The open-air "The Rich" (car No. 5) car has no glass windows; a ride in this car will have you feel the wind and the sun on your skin as you relax and let the nostalgic train take you away. During colder months, you'll also find trains with a coal stove installed onboard. The winter scenery is best enjoyed next to the warmth of the stove.

In areas of particular beauty, the train will slow down a bit to allow you to take in the sights.The beauty of this ravine is only visible to passengers on the Sagano Romantic train. You may have the opportunity to take photos that can't be snapped from anywhere else.

The train travels at an average speed of 25 km/hr.That's about the same as a slightly speedy bicycle ride.It helps passengers enjoy the beautiful scenery along the Hozugawa River.The 7.3-kilometer, 25-minute journey is the perfect venue for taking in the seasonal sights: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greens in summer, crimson foliage in fall, and the bare fields (and occasional snow) in winter.

There is a white water rafting experience you could enjoy here along the Hozugawa River. The price is 6300yen/pax (low season) and 6500/pax (high season). It comes with lunch. It takes up the whole day starts from 9.00am. The rapid is grade I-II only so it is suitable for beginner.

This is their starting base where you can enjoy their BBQ Pack Plan which costs 3240 yen/person. The staff will provide food and charcoal for BBQ, as well as clean-up services. All you need to do is to have fun, grill & eat! (Drinks are not included, please bring your own.)

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. I took the Hozugawa River Cruise option which you can check out in my next blog post. As for this trip, I do not strongly recommend because 25 minutes ride for 620 yen is short and expensive. Unless, you travel with your kids or you are planning to experience the Hozugawa River Cruise. Either of this reason, you are encouraged to sign up for this trip.

Total Damage: 620 yen

Service: 4/5

Recommended?: 2/5...not strongly recommended unless you are travelling with kids or you want to experience the Hozugawa River Cruise.