Kyoto Bus Tour: Sagano Railway & Hozugawa River Boat Ride

About this experience

This bus tour lets guest enjoy quick access to the popular scenic Sagano trolley train as well as an exciting river descent down the Hozugawa river in Kyoto, both of which are popular attractions in high demand and perfect for groups, families, and individuals who have limited time in Kyoto. These activities allow guests to appreciate the natural scenery of Kyoto's four seasons at any time of the year from both the train and boat. From cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, the changing leaves of autumn, or the snowy fields in winter, this tour will provide guests with unforgettable experiences and imagery. After the tour, guests will have time to explore the Arashiyama bamboo grove and surrounding area. Visit local souvenir and snack shops at this iconic Kyoto locale before getting back on the bus to head back to Kyoto Station.

What to expect

1. Stop 1 · 25min

   Ride the Sagano Railway from Saga Station to Kameoka Station and take in the beautiful surrounding scenery.

2. Stop 2 · 1h 30min

   Take a ride down the Hozugawa River from Kameoka to Arashiyama

3. Stop 3 · 2h

   Free time in the picturesque Arashiyama bamboo forest area. Visit souvenir shops or explore various food options (at own expense).

Tour & ticket options

Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.

Meeting & pickup

• Kyoto Station Karasuma Exit Meetin point is　＜KYOTO Sightseeing "OKOSHI" Bus Terminal＞. (Same point as Sky Hop Bus)

End point

• Kyoto Station Karasuma Exit Meetin point is　＜KYOTO Sightseeing "OKOSHI" Bus Terminal＞. (Same point as Sky Hop Bus)

Arrive at the Meeting Point by 8:40AM. Meeting Point: JR Kyoto Station - Kyoto Sightseeing "OKOSHI" Bus Karasumaguchi Terminal, Ticket Booth. https://x.gd/6N1SC Exchange your voucher at the ticket window.

Before you go

• Wheelchair accessible
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Children up to 5 years old who are under 80cm tall do not require a seat and so can participate for free.
• Children over 5 years old under 80cm will not be able to participate in the Hozugawa riverboat ride
• Depending on river conditions the Hozugawa boat ride may be cancelled. Alternate activities will be provided instead.
• We offer GPS-enabled multilingual audio guidance, available in English, Chinese and Korean.
• Please note that a Japanese-speaking guide will accompany the tour and you will be sharing the ride with Japanese tourists.
• The boarding ticket you receive also serves as an entry pass for major sightseeing locations. Please keep it safe until the end of the tour, as lost tickets cannot be reissued. Boarding tickets can be exchanged starting from three days prior to your boarding date.
• Please make your own way to the bus terminal. The bus will depart on time, and late arrivals will not be permitted to join the tour with no exceptions (no refunds will be issued.)
• Please arrive at least 20 minutes prior to departure time for prompt boarding (8:40am)
• At each sightseeing spot, the guide will display the return time before departure for the next stop. Please be sure to confirm it and return to the bus on time. If you do not follow the instructions, the bus will depart for the next destination without waiting.
• In the event that the Hozugawa River descent is canceled due to bad weather, the tour will be conducted with an alternative route. A refund for the Hozugawa River descent will also be issued on-site.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.