Sagano Scenic Railway

 

IT IS HARD TO THINK of Kyoto without associating it with the green lushness of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Yet, the Sagano Scenic Train, also known as Sagano Romantic Train, is often overlooked by visitors who disembark at the same station for a day trip to the bamboo forest. For those unaware, the train seems to be bound for residential towns beyond a small forest—and yet, this is exactly where its modest beauty lies.

Western Kyoto has long been known for its natural beauty. In fact, the Arashiyama district has been a favorite of tourists for well over 1,000 years. The beauty of this region peaks twice a year, first during the cherry blossom season, and later during the time of autumn color. It is still  very pretty around the year  and  missed by most overseas tourists. 

The Sagano Scenic Railway is a wonderful way to tour and enjoy the natural beauty of this rural region. The train has come to be known as the Sagano Torokko, or Romantic Train, because its passage takes guests sightseeing through such romantic scenery. 

The Sagano Scenic Railway runs near the Hozugawa River. During the months of March and April, boughs of pink cherry blossoms sway above the passing train. In November and December, the trail is lined with flaming orange and red autumn leaves. The railway traverses seven kilometers, and the trip takes about 25 minutes one way as the train winds slowly through the mountains. and water gorges. 

Iwatayama Monkey Park in the Arashiyama Mountains, just a 10-munite hike from the bridge.  How to get to the Sagano Scenic Railway station

The journey starts from the  red-brick building Saga Torokko Station, which is located right next to the JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. Simply use your Japan Rail Pass to travel to Arashiyama. The Saga-Arashiyama Station is a brief 15-minute train ride from the Kyoto Station.

Next to the station is the red-brick building of Saga Torokko Station, from where you can take the Sagano Scenic Railway. This romantic train passes a gorge offering a lovely view along the Hozu River.

Photo album of the Sagano ROmantic railway