Looking for a scenic way to experience Kyoto’s autumn landscapes? The Hozugawa River Cruise offers a relaxing boat ride through the beautiful Hozugawa River, taking you from Kameoka toward Arashiyama.
The cruise takes place on traditional flat-bottomed boats guided by experienced boatmen using oars and bamboo poles. The journey takes around two hours, passing through a largely undeveloped river gorge surrounded by mountains and seasonal scenery.
Why Visit Hozugawa River Cruise?
The cruise is a great way to enjoy Kyoto’s natural scenery from a different perspective. While the experience is available throughout the year, it is especially popular during autumn, from mid-November to early December, when the surrounding mountains are covered in colorful foliage.
The boats operate in different seasons as well. During winter, the boats are heated, while light rain does not usually stop the cruise as the boats can be covered with a plastic tent. However, services may be canceled during heavy rain or when river conditions become unsafe.
A Cruise with History
The Hozugawa River was once an important transportation route for moving timber used to construct temples and castles in Kyoto and Osaka.
During the Edo Period, the river was cleared to allow boats carrying grain, firewood, and other goods to travel safely. Although trains and trucks eventually replaced river transportation, the traditional boats were later brought back as a sightseeing attraction.
Today, the cruise offers visitors a chance to experience this historic river while enjoying Kyoto’s natural landscapes.
How to Get to Hozugawa River Cruise
The cruise departure point is about a 10-minute walk from JR Kameoka Station.
From Kyoto Station, JR Kameoka Station can be reached in approximately 20–30 minutes.
Another popular option is combining the cruise with the Sagano Scenic Railway. After taking the scenic train from Arashiyama to Torokko Kameoka Station, the cruise departure point is around a 15-minute bus ride away.
The boats arrive in Arashiyama, a few hundred meters upstream from Togetsukyo Bridge, making it easy to continue exploring the area after the cruise.
Hours & Admission
Operating Hours
- Mid-March to mid-December: Hourly departures from 9:00–15:00
- Mid-December to early March: Departures approximately every 90 minutes from 10:00–14:30
- On busy days, departures may operate according to demand
Tickets are available at the departure point on a first-come, first-served basis, or online for a specific time slot. Advance reservations are recommended during peak seasons, especially during the autumn foliage period.
Make It Part of Your Kyoto Trip
The Hozugawa River Cruise is a great addition to an autumn Kyoto itinerary, especially when combined with the Sagano Scenic Railway and Arashiyama.
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