Autumn is one of the most beautiful times to explore Kyoto, and the Sagano Romantic Train offers a different way to experience the season. Instead of walking through crowded sightseeing spots, you can sit back and enjoy Kyoto’s changing landscape as the train follows the Hozu River.
A Scenic Train Through Kyoto’s Autumn Landscape
The Sagano Romantic Train, also known as the Sagano Scenic Railway, runs between Torokko Saga Station and Torokko Kameoka Station, passing through the mountains of western Kyoto.
The route follows the Hozu River, with views of forested hills, valleys, and the river along the way. During autumn, the surrounding mountains turn shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a beautiful seasonal backdrop throughout the journey.
Why Visit During Autumn?
Autumn brings some of the most colorful scenery along the Sagano Romantic Train route.
As the leaves change, the combination of Japanese maple trees, mountain valleys, and the Hozu River creates a classic Kyoto autumn view. The scenery also changes throughout the ride, so there is always something different to see outside the window.
For an even more immersive experience, the train has an open-air carriage called The Rich, where you can enjoy the scenery without glass windows between you and the landscape.
A Different Way to Explore Arashiyama
The Sagano Romantic Train is located near Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most popular sightseeing areas.
Many visitors combine the train ride with a day exploring Arashiyama. After visiting places such as the Bamboo Forest, you can take the scenic train toward Kameoka and enjoy the autumn landscape along the Hozu River.
Some travelers also combine the train with a Hozugawa River Boat Ride, creating a scenic route through the mountains from different perspectives.
Plan Your Ride Ahead
The Sagano Romantic Train is popular throughout the autumn season, especially when the foliage reaches its peak.
Seats can fill up quickly, so planning your visit and arranging your tickets ahead of time is recommended. If you want to enjoy the autumn scenery from the open-air carriage, check availability early as well.
Ready for an Autumn Trip to Kyoto?
From scenic train rides and autumn foliage to hotels, restaurants, and private transportation, Satami can help arrange your Kyoto trip around the experiences you want to enjoy.
Plan your Japan trip with us and create unforgettable memories.
If you’re interested, book now and make a reservation through the Satami Japan Tour team to make your trip safer, more comfortable, and more convenient!