Muslim Travellers Guide to the Sagano Romantic Train: Kyoto’s Most Scenic Journey

When you travel to Kyoto, don't just explore the city's famous historical sites. This ancient capital also holds incredible natural beauty that you can experience aboard the Sagano Romantic Train. With its charming, classic exterior, this sightseeing train takes you on an unforgettable journey through lush forests and a magnificent gorge. The scenery changes with each season, offering a unique visual treat every time you ride.

Also read: 7 Muslim-Friendly Ryokans in Kyoto For Autumn 2025: Garden Views, Onsen & Kaiseki

In the spring, you'll be treated to a breathtaking view of cherry blossoms in full bloom. As the train glides through a tunnel of delicate pink flowers, you'll feel completely captivated. Meanwhile, in autumn, a magnificent burst of warm colors will delight your eyes. But the Sagano Romantic Train has a special surprise in store for this season.

Why the Sagano Romantic Train Is a Must-Do in Autumn

Image credit: @saganoromantictrain_1114

Without a doubt, autumn in Japan is a work of natural art, and there's no better way to appreciate it than from the window of the Sagano Romantic Train. During this period, the trees along the railway line transform into a vibrant palette of fiery reds, deep oranges, and golden yellows. The train moves at a slow, leisurely pace, allowing you to capture every moment and photograph the stunning, color-drenched hillsides.

Image credit: Sagano Romantic Train | Official Website

But the experience doesn't stop there. The Sagano Romantic Train offers a delightful surprise during the autumn season. If you take a late-afternoon ride, the lights inside the carriages will be turned off. As the train glides past the red-leaved trees, colorful lights illuminate the scenery, giving you a magical, one-of-a-kind view.

Image credit: Sagano Romantic Train | Official Website

The train consists of five carriages. Carriages 1 to 4 are enclosed with windows you can open, while Carriage 5, nicknamed the Rich Car, is completely open-air with a transparent roof. This design allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty along the route. Wheelchair-accessible spaces are available in Carriages 3 and 5.

Sagano Romantic Train Route

Image credit: Sagano Romantic Train | Official Website

The Sagano Romantic Train connects Arashiyama with Kameoka and runs alongside the clear waters of the Hozugawa River. The one-way journey takes about 25 minutes. The route connects four stations:

• Torokko Saga Station

• Torokko Arashiyama Station

• Torokko Hozukyo Station

• Torokko Kameoka Station

Most travelers begin their journey from Saga Station in Arashiyama. Once you arrive at the final station, you can explore several attractions in Kameoka. To return to Arashiyama or Kyoto, you have a few options.

Image credit: Sagano Romantic Train | Official Website

First, you can take the Sagano Romantic Train back. Second, you can take a regular train. The third and most exciting option is to take the Hozugawa River Cruise. This 16-kilometer boat tour will leave you in awe of the spectacular natural beauty. The tour concludes in the Arashiyama area, making it a scenic and unique way to get back.

Ticket Prices & Schedule

Image credit: @saganoromantictrain_1114

Ticket Prices

A one-way ticket for an adult costs 880 JPY, while a child's ticket is 440 JPY. Group tickets are also available at a slightly reduced price of 800 JPY for adults and 400 JPY for children.

Schedule

The Sagano Romantic Train typically operates from March to late December. The line is closed from December to the end of February. The train usually does not run on Wednesdays, except during peak holiday seasons. It's important to check the official website for any schedule changes.

The first departure from Torokko Saga Station is at 9:02 AM, with trains running hourly. The last departure is at 4:02 PM. If you're departing from Torokko Kameoka Station, the earliest time is 9:30 AM, with the last at 4:30 PM.

How to Purchase Your Tickets

Tickets for the Sagano Romantic Train, especially during the autumn season, sell out very quickly. Here's how you can secure yours:

Online

Some online travel agencies offer advance ticket booking. You can also book directly on the official Sagano Romantic Train website. If you choose this option, make sure you have an account. Once logged in, you'll be guided to select your date, departure and destination stations, number of passengers, carriage, and seat. Payment can then be completed with a credit card.

In Person

You can also purchase tickets on the day of travel at all departure stations except Torokko Hozukyo Station. However, this method is very risky, especially during peak seasons. The ticket windows open at:

• Torokko Saga Station: around 8:35 AM

• Torokko Arashiyama Station: around 8:50 AM

• Torokko Kameoka Station: around 9:10 AM

If all the seats are sold out, the Sagano Romantic Train also sells limited standing-room-only tickets for each carriage. These tickets are only available after all seated tickets have been sold.

Using Online-Purchased Tickets

After you complete the online payment, your tickets can be accessed in your account profile. Select "booking info," then "show detail," and you'll be taken to a page to activate the ticket. You will then receive a QR code to show the officer at the ticket gate before boarding the train.

A Must-Do for Muslim Travellers

Image credit: @kyotograndmosque_official (left), @kyotocentralmosque (right)

For Muslim travellers, the Sagano Romantic Train offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and history while traveling in a Muslim-friendly environment. As you travel through Kyoto's serene landscapes, you can take a moment to reflect on the grandeur of God's creation. The gentle pace of the train allows for peaceful reflection and an appreciation of the beauty that unfolds outside your window. The journey is a perfect spiritual and visual experience, offering a sense of peace before you head to explore other parts of Kyoto.

Finding a place to pray is crucial for Muslim travelers. In the Kyoto area, there are several mosques and prayer spaces nearby, including the Kyoto Islamic Cultural Center and the Kyoto Central Masjid. In Kyoto Station, there is a dedicated prayer room available for use. This makes it convenient to perform your prayers before or after your ride.

Also read: A Muslim Traveller's Guide to Exploring Kyoto's Nishiki Market

Embarking on the Sagano Romantic Train is an experience that will complete your adventure in Japan. It's more than just a ride; it's a window into the breathtaking landscapes of Kyoto that will captivate you and leave you with beautiful memories. So, prepare your camera and let the unique charm of Kyoto mesmerize you.