riverboat kyoto

Hozugawa River Cruise

Hozugawa River Cruises (�ےÐ쉺��, Hozugawa Kudari) are sightseeing boat rides down the Hozugawa River from Kameoka to Arashiyama . The cruises utilize traditional style, flat-bottomed boats piloted by boatmen with oars and bamboo poles. The boats take about two hours to leisurely make their way down the river and are a relaxing way to see the natural scenery of the largely undeveloped ravine. The river cruises are often combined with a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway .

Cruises are offered year round, but are particularly popular from mid November to early December when the leaves change color . The boats are heated in winter and operate during light rain (they will be covered in a plastic tent), but service is canceled in case of heavy rain or large changes in the water level.

The Hozugawa River was originally employed to transport logs that were used to build many of Kyoto and Osaka 's famous temples and castles. During the Edo Period the river was cleared of obstructions so that boats carrying grain, firewood and other cargo could safely navigate it. Trains and trucks eventually made river transport obsolete, and operations ceased after several hundred years of use. However, the boats were brought back and eventually became popular as a sightseeing attraction.

Getting there and around

The departure point for cruises is a short bus ride (170 yen) or ten minute walk from JR Kameoka Station (20-30 minutes, 420 yen from Kyoto Station ). Alternatively, the pier is a 15 minute, 310 yen bus ride from Torokko Kameoka Station, the last stop on the Sagano Scenic Railway from Arashiyama .

Boats arrive in Arashiyama , a few hundred meters upstream from the Togetsukyo Bridge.

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Hozugawa kudari, hotels around kyoto.

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• Another Kyoto
• Hozu River Boat Cruises
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Hozu River Boat Cruises 保津川下り

2 Shimonakajima, Hozu-cho, Kameoka-shi, Kyoto-fu

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A riverboat ride through the wild hills of west Kyoto

The Hozu River passes through Kyoto and the city of Kameoka, which lies to the west. Splendid mountains line the riverbanks, forming a landscape straight out of a painting. Delightful throughout the year, the mountains turn bright red in autumn, a landscape best enjoyed from a boat. The Hozugawa river cruise will help you take in that view.

Quick Facts

Eagles, kingfishers and cormorants are abundant

Boats depart hourly, although during busy periods they will depart as soon as they are full

You can buy food and snacks during the journey from a boat that pulls alongside

How to Get There

You can reach the cruise jump-off spot by JR train then shuttle bus.

The departure point for the boats is a 10-minute walk from JR Kameoka Station. There are shuttle buses from Torokko Kameoka Station for those combining the boat ride with the Sagano Scenic Train.

Taking the current back in time

During the “Kawakudari” riverboat ride, guests enjoy the two-hour, 16-kilometer ride from Kameoka to Arashiyama, as three boatmen steer the traditional, flat-bottomed boats with oars and bamboo poles.

The ride alternates between thrilling sections with strong currents and deeper stretches that are calm. Along the way, the boat's 20 passengers can enjoy birds, wildlife and the Hozu River Gorge's unusual rock formations.

A trade artery into Kyoto and Osaka

Popular for over 100 years.

Trains and trucks of the modern period eventually made river transport obsolete, with operations ceasing completely in 1945. However, the boats took on new life as a sightseeing attraction as early as 1895, drawing over 300,000 visitors a year, including a large number of celebrities and members of royalty.

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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Hozugawa River boat ride, Kyoto – everything you need to know

On the west end of Kyoto, the quiet streets of Arashiyama give way to mountains. Threading its way through the mountains, the Hozugawa River meanders through a beautiful forested canyon before it flows into Arashiyama and under the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge. The Hozugawa River boat ride (also known as the Hozugawa Sightseeing boat and/or Hozugawa-kudari ) is a leisurely float trip through the canyon. It takes approximately two hours to travel 16 kilometers down the Hozugawa river between Tanba-Kameoka and Arashiyama. Most of the river provides a smooth, calming journey, though there are a few rapids that supply some additional excitement along the way, and depending on the season you can enjoy cherry blossoms, vivid greenery, fall colors, and even snow! Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the Hozugawa River boat ride, and why we think it’s a great activity to enjoy while you’re in Kyoto.

About the Hozugawa Sightseeing boat ride

Up to 2 dozen passengers sail in traditional flat-bottomed wooden boats. A team of boatmen use long bamboo poles to steer the boats, pushing off the river bottom and the rocky outcroppings that line the route. They also use oars and sheer strength to move passengers through sections of flat water.

The scenery along the route is beautiful, no matter which time of year you take your trip. The river valley is forested, and in spring it’s lined with cherry blossoms; in summer, it’s lush and green; and in autumn, the hillsides are covered in shades of red and gold. You might even encounter snow on a winter sailing. Along the way, there is a lot of banter, comedic relief, and showmanship displayed by the oarsmen. It’s mostly conducted in Japanese, though you’ll hear the occasional joke in English, too.

The trip takes you 16 kilometers down the river, a journey that takes about 2 hours. During high water season though, the trip can be completed in as little as 1 hour. Departures still occur even if it’s raining, but may be canceled if it’s particularly stormy.

At the end of the trip, if you’re traveling during peak season, your boat will be met by a floating combini , or convenience store. This boat will pull up alongside you and sell you drinks and snacks including hot foods like mitarashi dango (rice dumplings with teriyaki sauce) and grilled meat.

If you think you’ll be hungry before the end of the journey, never fear. The boat’s ticket office in Kameoka sells a wide range of snacks (and souvenirs) that you can bring onboard with you.

When do Hozugawa-kudari boats depart?

During peak season, from March through December, boats depart on the hour every hour from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. They may possibly depart earlier, if the boat fills up. Through the summer months, there is also an additional 4 p.m. departure.

On weekends and holidays there are additional departures, and the timetable becomes irregular, as the boats usually fill up more quickly.

Sailings take place during the winter months, too, though on a shortened timetable. Boats depart every 90 minutes between 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., with additional weekend and holiday sailings. (There are no sailings over the New Year’s period.)

In the winter, the bench seating in the boats is removed, and passengers sit directly on the floor of the boat. The boat’s capacity is reduced as a result, from 24 passengers down to 16. A heater is placed in the boat and a plastic tarp covers it to trap the heat – passengers can see out glass windows along the sides of the boat.

How much do Hozugawa River boat ride tickets cost?

The price for regular departures is ¥4500 per adult or ¥3000 per child (ages 4-12). Children under 4 sail for free. Group rates are available for 35+ passengers, and private charters are also available.

Should I buy Hozugawa Sightseeing boat ride tickets in advance?

Reservations can only be made for groups of 10+ passengers, otherwise it’s first come, first served. Tickets can be purchased at the boat launch site

Where is the Hozugawa-kudari boarding site?

The boat launch is in Kameoka, in western Kyoto. You can reach the boarding site by taking the JR train. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano/San-in Line to Kameoka Station. The trip will take 27 minutes. From Kameoka Station, the boat launch site is less than a 10-minute walk, well signposted.

You can also take the Sagano Romantic Train to the boat launch site. The train runs through the canyon between Kameoka and Arashiyama, giving a top-down view of the river. It follows the same path as the Hozugawa River boat, just providing a different perspective.

Where does the Hozugawa River boat ride dock?

The boat trip ends in Arashiyama, close to the Togetsukyo Bridge that famously spans the river. From there, it’s approximately a 12-minute walk to the JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. If you are taking the train back to Kameoka, where you boarded the boat, the train ride is about 10 minutes. If you are taking the train into Kyoto, to Kyoto Station, the ride is about 20 minutes.

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Does the hozugawa sightseeing boat ride accept credit cards.

No, the boat trip is cash-only.

How safe is the Hozugawa-kudari boat trip?

In March 2023, a boat capsized, and two crew members were killed. Operations ceased for 3 months while an investigation took place. Additional safety measures were also put in place. For example, although life preservers were on board for all guests, wearing them was optional prior to the accident. Today, all guests must wear a life preserver during the trip. Boats have also been equipped with satellite radios to ensure communications capability at all times.

Although water levels on the river fluctuate, and there will be more or less rapids or rock outcroppings depending on water levels, the boat ride seems very safe as it operates today. On our Hozugawa River boat ride (which took place in August), the experience was mostly a gentle float trip, with a few small sections of rapids that livened things up but did not seem particularly dangerous. The boat moves quickly through these sections, but the water is not rough.

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Our experience on on the hozugawa river boat ride.

I enjoyed this trip much more than I expected to. Before we left on our trip, I thought the pace might be too slow, or the scenery too repetitive, to be very enjoyable. I was wrong! We took this trip after several hectic days of sightseeing. We had taken train trips out of Kyoto to visit Hiroshima, Nara, and Osaka, and were ready for a break. This boat trip was a lovely way to spend a morning recovering from the hustle and bustle of the big cities. We paired it with an afternoon tour of the Tenryu-ji gardens and Arashiyama bamboo grove, making for a zen and restorative day.

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Enjoy the Hozugawa Kudari: Scenic River Cruise Down One of Kyoto's Most Picturesque Valleys

Experience the beauty of Kyoto on the Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari), a 2-hour scenic cruise through cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage.

400-Year History of the Hozugawa River Boat Ride

Preparing for your kyoto river cruise: what to know, the route and scenery: rapids, splashes, and full of thrill.

Ruled by Akechi Mitsuhide, the former mountain castle town of Kameoka is located to the northwest of Kyoto. About an 8-minute walk from JR Kameoka Station is the boarding area for the Hozugawa River Boat Ride.

Nestled to the northwest of Kyoto, the former mountain castle town of Kameoka harbors a treasure of history - the Hozugawa River Boat Ride, merely an 8-minute walk from JR Kameoka Station. Dating back centuries, the origins of the Hozugawa River Boat Ride trace to the year 1606 when a prosperous Kyoto merchant, Suminokura Ryoi, ingeniously crafted it as an industrial waterway. Its purpose was to ferry goods, such as lumber, firewood, and charcoal, from Tanba Province to the capital city.

With the advent of modern transportation like railways and cars, the mode of cargo delivery evolved, transforming the Hozugawa River Boat Ride into a captivating tourist attraction. Today, visitors embark on this picturesque journey to relish the beauty of the valley through all four seasons .

Aboard the 16-passenger flatboat, a skilled three-person crew adeptly navigates through river rapids and challenging rocky terrains, using long bamboo sticks to steer the vessel gracefully - an enthralling spectacle to witness.

Meet Hiroshi Kawarabayashi, a seasoned boatman and native of Kameoka, who abandoned his office job to embrace the historical significance of his hometown. With over two decades of experience, he sheds light on the rigorous path to becoming a full-fledged boatman: “To become a fully-fledged boatman, it takes about ten years of experience not only handling the ship but learning the river and its changes throughout the seasons .” Preservation and maintenance of the river and its banks stand as vital responsibilities for these dedicated boatmen, who have also embraced learning foreign languages like English and Chinese to accommodate the surge of international visitors.

Spring adorns the riverbanks with cherry blossoms, and autumn cloaks them in a radiant tapestry of hues. On these enchanting days, more than a hundred boats set sail, a testament to the boatmen's unwavering endurance. For Mr. Kawarabayashi, “Surrounded by nature and 400 years of history, it is our duty as boatmen to ensure that everyone on the boat is enjoying the whole experience.”

Hozugawa River Boat rides start at 9:00 AM and cost 4,500 yen for adults and 3,000 yen for children four years of age to elementary school students (tax included for both prices).

• Regular Boat Departure Times (Weekdays): 9:00 AM / 10:00 AM / 11:00 AM / 12:00 PM / 1:00 PM / 2:00 PM / 3:00 PM
• *On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, departures will be based on the number of passengers gathered.
• Price: Adults 4,500 yen; children 3,000 yen

We arrived first thing in the morning, but there was already a crowd of tourists waiting for their boats. Many visitors will take the Sagano Romantic Train from Arashiyama to Torokko Kameoka Station and then take the Hozugawa Kudari back down to Arashiyama . We board our boat at the base of Shin-Hozu Ohashi Bridge, and it’s time to go! The boat has six bench-style seats that fit 3-4 people per row. This time there were a total of 16 passengers. On both sides of the craft, there are sheets to block water. We are excited to see how wet we will get.

The Hozugawa River Boat Ride boarding area is located in Kameoka Valley and the river is wide with a moderate flow.

The three crew have their own roles, the boat person at the bow is the sao-sashi, and their job is to use the long pole and push the boat forward and adjust the direction. The kai-hiki uses the oar and acts as the engine. At the stern of the boat is the kaji-tori, who operates the rudder to navigate the ship. The most important thing is for the three-person crew to work as one.

The Kyoto river cruise crew humorously introduces the method of operating the boat, history of Hozugawa Kudari, and areas to see, and the experience was filled with a friendly atmosphere.

The Sagano Romantic Train connects Kameoka and Arashiyama along the Hozu River , and at times you will be going down the river alongside it. When you look up, you'll likely see many Sagano Romantic Train passengers waving at the boats. Also, the boat crews cheerfully wave at the passengers.

For a while the current is calm, however about 20 minutes in you will enter the first section of rapids.

This area is called Ko-ayu no Taki (Sweetfish Falls) and is the only place on the Hozu River with a waterfall in its name. There is a difference in elevation of about two meters, and it was named ‘Sweetfish Falls’ because the sweetfish can’t go upstream. Among the boatmen, they say that the sound of Ko-ayu no Taki has changed to Kowai no Taki (Fearsome Falls).

If it weren’t for the teamwork of the three-person crew and skillful maneuvering with the pole, the boat would not be able to navigate the narrow paths between rocks. At moments like this, the cheerful team put on their serious faces, letting you know you are in good hands.

During the Kyoto river cruise, you will go under 5 JR San’in Honsen (JR San’in Main Line) bridges and one Sagano Romantic Train bridge. The bridges go in a straight line, so that means the river winds through the valley. On your way down, you will see Mt. Atago, known as Hibuse no Kami (God of Fire Protection), to the left, then to your front; after a while, you start to get confused about which way you are facing.

Through repeated use of the poles, the hard rocks have dents. It is proof that many boatmen have been transporting goods and people since the Edo period.

The giant rock Magoroku Iwa covered in moss, is around the halfway point of the course. When Suminokura Ryoi was developing the waterway, this was considered one of the most hazardous areas. The large rock was broken by the stone smith Magoroku, hence the name; also, this was done in an era without heavy machinery. There is also a tragic story behind the name; when Magoroku dealt the final blow to the rock in the rapid current, he also lost his life.

If you look behind the rock, you can see that it was carved by hand. With so much time passing with moss on the rock and trees in the area, you can imagine the struggle of our predecessors.

Going under the final bridge.

The final rapids are the Oose–Large Rapids. The river width is wide here, but a rocky area with whitecaps lasts a while. Whenever the boat encountered a bumpy area, the boatman would call out, “Ready the sheets!” We didn’t get so wet, thanks to this. Of course, you can always leave the sheets down and get soaked.

Past Oose, and when the current calms again, there is a boat with paper lanterns and pleasant aroma coming from it.

It is the famous concession boat of the Hozu River . The boat slowly gets side-by-side and you are able to buy warm oden (Japanese pot dish with different ingredients) and mitarashi dango (skewered sweet soy sauce glazed dango).

Money and goods will go between guests for the people on the other side of the concession boat. After the 2 hour ride screaming through rapids and laughing, the boat becomes one. It is amazing how the boat is filled with a warm atmosphere.

After leaving the concession boat, you can see Togetsu-bashi past the boatmen. At this point the river is filled with yakatabune (home-style boat) touring Arashiyama and boats transporting customers to their inns.

You will part ways with the other guests at little bit upstream from Togetsu-bashi.

After waving goodbye to the boatmen at the dock, Arashiyama is downstream filled with tourists. It is still before noon after the boat ride, and you can explore the Arashiyama area for half a day!

A boat trip that is full of thrill, nature and photogenic spots. A warm experience with cheerful boat crew will be something to remember.

• Address 2, Shimonakajima, Hozucho, Kameoka-shi, Kyoto, 621-0005 View Map
• Nearest Station Kameoka Station （JR Sagano Line / JR San-in Line） 9 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 0771-22-5846

• Area kyoto Suburbs
• Category Outdoor Activities

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Hozu River Boat Cruise 保津川下り

• Published on : 28/09/2020
• by : Japan Experience
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Hozu River Cruise in Kyoto

By Marufish on Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/legalcode), https://www.flickr.com/photos/marufish/4166300486

Take a traditional boat along the Hozu River to Arashiyama, a relaxing way to see this beautiful part of Kyoto.

Hozugawa Kudari

If you have traveled to Kameoka, west of Kyoto on the Sagano Scenic Railway through the Saga/Arashiyama area, the train journey can be combined with a trip back from Kameoka to the Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama on a river boat.

The hozugawa kudari, the Japanese name for the boat ride on the Hozugawa River lasts about two hours and refreshments (beer, sake , soft drinks, snacks) can be bought on board.

The channel of this river was opened by Suminokura Ryoi 400 years ago during the Edo Period in 1606 to transport wood for Kyoto's many temples, rice and other foodstuffs from Kameoka and further afield to Kyoto . In fact, the river had been used even earlier when the capital was at Nagaoka-kyo.

In 1895, pleasure boats began making the trip and a number of foreign princes and princesses have since taken the cruise along with the Showa Emperor in the 1920's. Today, more than 300,000 tourists travel down the river each year. Each boat seats about 15 people and is equipped with a roof should it rain. Each boat is navigated by two boatmen using oars and long, bamboo poles.

Highlights of the trip are the views of the beautiful, forested river banks of the Hozu Valley, some amazingly shaped rocks and gliding through some small rapids on the river.

The 16 km Hozu River Boat Trip is particularly popular in spring to see the cherry blossoms and in autumn to view Arashiyama's spectacular autumn leaves.

Address, timetable & access

Hozu river cruise.

Shimo-Nakajima, Hozu-cho, Kameoka

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Hozu-gawa River Boat Ride

Operating year-round

• Active/Outdoor
• Japanese Culture

Kyoto's premiere spot for scenic beauty, flowing 16km between the mountains leading to Arashiyama, the Hozugawa River was once an important waterway used for transporting lumber to the capital. Today, visitors can enjoy a two-hour boat ride through nature here. With 3-5 skilled boatsmen steering, you can enjoy gazing out at cherry blossoms in the spring, fresh green foliage in the summer, the colored leaves of autumn, and the massive boulders and fantastic rock formations along the way. Experience the deep pools, rapids, and all the thrills of an ever-changing mountain river.

• Price : Adults: 4,500 yen Children: 3,000 yen
• Date & Time : Dec 29 to Jan 4 *Temporarily closed several days in February and September for safety inspections

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The Ultimate Guide to Hozugawa River Boat Ride

When visiting Japan, experiencing the culture and activities unique to the country is a must for most international tourists! If that is the case for you, consider taking the Hozugawa River Boat (保津川下り) to Kyoto’s Arashiyama. You are completely disconnected from civilisation once the boat starts floating on the river. Boarding the traditional boat and being surrounded by Kyoto ‘s rural natural landscape will make you feel as if the boat is traveling back in time!

Table of Contents

Hozugawa river boat ride (保津川下り), hozugawa river boat ride’s timetable and ticket.

• Where Do You Board the Hozugawa River Boat Ride from

What to Do on the Day Before Boarding the Hozugawa River Boat

The best seats on hozugawa river boat, explore the sagano/arashiyama area with a guide.

The 16 km Hozugawa River Boat Ride, also known as Hozugawa River Cruises or Hozugawa-kudari in Japanese, has a long history of over 400 years. Hozu River was once an important waterway to transport timer and supplies to Kyoto and Osaka from the Tamba region (丹波地方) in northern Kyoto.

Nowadays, the boats are there to carry anyone who would love to enjoy 90 to 120 minutes of beautiful scenery of the dynamic landscapes. From the photo, the current might seem calm, but there are parts of the river where the boat ride may seem more like rafting!

The boatmen there aren’t just good at steering the boat. Holding expert knowledge about the Hozu River and how weather can change the water flow is essential to being a great boatman. Repairing and preserving nature in the area are also part of their duties.

Apparently, it takes around ten years to be a full-fledged boatman! On top of that, they now need to study foreign languages like English to be able to serve passengers like us! (´▽｀*).

Tip: When on the boat, focusing on what is in front of you might be natural. But occasionally, you should check out what is behind you. Although there might be some awkward moments between you and those sitting directly behind you, the valley seen from a different angle won’t make you regret it (^_-)-☆.

From mid-December to early March, the boats will be heated up to keep you nice and warm in the colder months (^_-)-☆.

• Hozugawa River Boat doesn’t have a departing schedule on weekends and public holidays. When enough customers are gathered at the terminal, the boat will depart.
• On a weekday, Hozugawa River Boat departs on an hourly basis from 9 am to 3 pm.

You can pre-purchase your Hozugawa River Boat Ride ticket HERE ! If you want to reserve a specific time slot, book through klook or kkday !

For more information about the tickets and the Hozugawa River Boat Ride timetable, please refer to their official website  HERE .

Where Do You Board the Hozugawa River Boat Ride from?

The boat’s pier is close to JR Kameoka Station (亀岡駅), just a 5 to 10-minute walk away.

If you take the Sagano Romantic Train , walk from the terminal station, Kameoka Torokko Station (トロッコ亀岡駅), to JR Umahori Station (馬堀駅). JR Kameoka Station is the next stop from JR Umahori Station.

If you don’t want to walk, you can also take Keihan Kyoto Kotsū’s (京阪京都交通) services from Kameoka Torokko Station and get off at Hodzukawakudari Jōsen-ba (保津川下り乗船場).

Kyoto Sagano Sightseeing Carriage Tour can also take you to the boat pier!

Download one of Japan’s transport apps to plan your trip.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @lilz.japan.travel.guide

Hozugawa River Boat Terminal is a two-story building. Whether you have pre-purchased your ticket or not, please fill in the small piece of paper shown in the 2nd and 3rd photo in the Instagram post. Only one paper is required to be filled out for the entire group. The name to be put in is the group’s representative’s name.

You can then take the piece of paper to the ticket counter to exchange or purchase your boat ticket. The ticket has a number printed. Please wait until your number is called before heading down to the pier. The big screen next to the ticket counter also shows the numbers that have been called out.

While you wait, you can purchase some snacks from the shop in the terminal. Food and drinks are allowed on the Hozugawa River Boat .

At the pier, the staff will allocate the seats on the boat for you. If you can, ask them if you can sit on the  right-hand side  of the boat. When we were on Hozugawa River Boat in the morning, more birds and turtles appeared on the right-hand side. Because the side of the river was under the sun, it is possible that they flocked over to seek warmth on a cold autumn day. In addition, Arashiyama’s traditional buildings are also located on the right-hand side of the river.

If you understand Japanese,  the front few rows  are the best seats because you can hear the boatmen giving out interesting talks and stories.

At the end of the boat ride, a food boat will come by. The boatmen will tie the two boats temporarily so you can get the snacks and drinks you want. It was the only time we were glad that we sat on the left-hand side of the boat. The food boat was located just next to us, and we were able to see clearly what they were selling.

If you prefer to be guided when you visit the Sagano/Arashiyama Area, consider booking one of the tours below!

• Kyoto Sagano Bamboo Grove & Arashiyama Walking Tour
• Kyoto Rickshaw Tour
• Private Walking Tour in Bamboo Forest & Hidden Spots in Arashiyama
• Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train, Arashiyama, and Kiyomizudera Half-Day Tour in Kyoto
• Arashiyama Morning Walking Tour with Sagano Romantic Train in Kyoto

Taking the Sagano Romantic Train to Kameoka

If you don’t have 90 to 120 minutes to spare sitting on a boat, another option to adore Hozugawa Gorge is by taking the Sagano Romantic Train. Especially during the cherry blossom and the fall foliage season, you get to see the gorgeous flowers or vivid colors up close. Of course, you can see the Hozugawa River from the train’s window as well.

For more information, refer to our Sagano Scenic Railway article!

Discover Kameoka City – Just a Train Ride Away from Aarashiyama

Arashiyama in Kyoto is one of the most popular destinations in the prefecture. Before taking the Hozugawa River Boat, how about spending a couple of hours exploring Kameoka?

Kameoka City’s scenery is equally as amazing as what you can get in Arashiyama, if not better! And the best thing is that it is way less crowded!

For more information about the city, please refer to our  Kameoka City  article (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ.

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Hozugawa River Boat Ride in Kyoto

For a unique and memorable way to explore more wonders of Kyoto, take a Hozugawa River Boat Ride. The two-hour, 16-kilometre long adventure lets you explore the incredible scenery of the Tanba-Kameoka/Arashiyama area.

How to get there

From Kyoto Station, take a 20-minute train ride to JR Kameoka Station. Then, you can either take a short bus ride (ticket cost is 160 yen) or a 10-minute walk to the Hozugawa River Boat Ride boarding site.

Tickets can be purchased at the Hozugawa-kudari boarding site . A regular boat ticket costs 4,100 yen for adults and 2,700 yen for children between the ages of 4 and 12. However, if your party has 10 or more people, you need to make a reservation.

A private charter ride costs 82,000 yen per boat and has a capacity of up to 17 passengers.

If travelling with a group consisting of 35 to 99 adults, you can get a 5% discount of the regular ticket price. For groups of more than 100 adults, there is a discount of 10%.

Be advised that cash is the only payment method accepted.

The boat ride lets you witness and experience the beauty of the following historical and natural attractions:

• Sweetfish Falls (Koayu no Taki) – a two-metre high waterfall
• Lord’s Fishing Bank (Tono no Ryoba) – said to have been the favourite fishing spot of the Lords of Tanba-Kameyama
• Asahi Rapid – offers an amazing view of the sunrise
• Marks of the Poles (Sao no Ato) – 400-year-old marks created by boatmen using their poles
• Marks of the Ropes (Tsuna no Ato) – 350-year-old rock marks from the ropes that were used for pulling up the boats
• Cormorant Fishing Beach (Ukai no Hama) – site where the 9 th century Seiwa Emperor engaged in cormorant fishing
• Book Rock (Shomotsu-iwa) – rock formation that looks like a pile of books
• Frog Rock (Kajika-iwa) – home to many Kajika frogs
• Daihikaku Senko-ji Temple – a Buddhist temple that was moved to this location in 1614 to make way for the construction of the canal

The tour ends at the Hozugawa-kudari landing site, which is located not too far from Togetsukyo Bridge.

The best times to go are in spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom or autumn when the autumn foliage is at its peak.

If combined with the Sagano Scenic Railway tour

The Sagano Scenic Railway is a sightseeing rail line that offers the opportunity to see the mountains, forests and other natural treasures of Kyoto aboard an old-fashioned train that runs from Arashiyama to Kameoka (or the other way) along the Hozugawa River.

Each trip consists of four enclosed train cars with windows that you can open if you want to and one open car, all with wooden benches for passengers to sit on.

The seven-kilometre, 25-minute long journey is best done during the spring and autumn seasons, if you want to marvel at the bright pink cherry blossoms or the vibrant, colourful leaves of the thriving woodlands in this part of the city.

A one-way ticket costs 620 yen, and can be purchased at any JR ticketing offices in the Kansai area or at the Torokko Saga Station.

If you boarded the train at either Torokko Saga Station or Torokko Arashiyama Station, and disembarked at the terminal station, Torokko Kameoka Station, you can then enjoy the Hozugawa River Boat Ride. Just take a 15-minute bus ride (fare is 310 yen) from Torokko Kameoka Station to the Hozugawa River boarding site.

During the two-hour boat ride, it’s possible you will get wet at some stage. You are advised to keep your phones and other electronic devices in waterproof bags to prevent damage and a vinyl cover is available on the boat to protect your clothes.

When it is raining, roofs will be installed on the boats for the safety and protection of passengers. However, if more serious weather conditions are being experienced, tours may be cancelled.

Food and drinks are allowed to be brought and consumed on the boat. You can also purchase snacks, bento and other refreshments from a floating conbini boat that will pull up close to your boat once you reach the Arashiyama area. While drinking alcohol is permitted, smoking is prohibited.

If you are travelling with children aged three years or less, you do not need to buy tickets for them and they must be seated on your lap. Please talk to the boatmen in advance if you will be bringing large items such as luggage or a stroller aboard.

The boats are made of fibreglass, undergo regular maintenance and all have life jackets available for emergency use.

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Hozugawa River Boat Ride

Hozugawa river boat ride tickets, check availability.

• Duration: 2h
• Group of max. 10 people

Hozugawa Private River Boat Ride

• Group of max. 17 people

Hozugawa River Boat Ride reviews

Customer images, about: hozugawa river boat ride, description.

Hozugawa River Boat Ride provides excursions on Kyoto's Hozu River. These traditional cruises, led by local oarsmen, allow visitors to be surrounded by the serene and encapsulating landscapes Japan is known for.

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Kamogawa River

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WELCOME TO KAMOGAWA RIVE RWALK, KYOTO

A serene haven that embodies the heart of the city's culture, history, and natural splendor. Stroll along its banks to experience a living tapestry of Kyoto's traditions, from the vibrant cherry blossoms and autumn leaves to the ancient festivals and cormorant fishing.

Therefore, we aim to offer an experience of sublime beauty along the Kamo River. Please stay tuned for upcoming projects.

Shimogamo Miyazakichō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0802, Japan

A Stroll Along the Kamo River: Kyoto’s Most Beautiful River

Kyoto, often celebrated for its ancient temples and vibrant festivals, hides another gem that quietly meanders through its heart – the Kamo River. This river, both a lifeline and a scenic masterpiece, offers a serene retreat from the bustling city life. Let’s take a virtual stroll along its banks to discover its charms.

In a city as vibrant and historically rich as Kyoto, the Kamo River offers a peaceful interlude. It serves as a reminder that amidst the ever-evolving urban landscapes, the gentle flow of nature continues, timeless and beautiful.

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Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Kamo-gawa Riverside

Kyoto has a river running through it: It’s called the Kamo-gawa and it’s really just one long park which Kyotoites use for relaxation, exercise and contemplation.

Like the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park (the Gosho), the Kamo-gawa Riverside functions as Kyoto’s central park.

Both sides are lined with wide green areas and bike paths , with plenty of benches and exercise areas. Up near the Demachiyanagi end of the river (in the north, where Imadegawa-dori crosses the river), there are wide play areas that are great for picnics and for letting children run around .

There are also imaginative “bridges” made from stone turtles that children can use to hop across the river.

At Demachiyanagi, the river splits. The west branch remains the Kamo-gawa, while the east branch is the Takano-gawa. Both are lovely, but my vote goes to the west (Kamo-gawa) branch. It’s lined with wide park areas and has some of the best cherry blossom trees in the city . This area is perfect for hanami (cherry blossom viewing parties) . Also, if you’re on a bicycle , the bike paths along the Kamo-gawa are easily your best bet for moving fast between northern and southern Kyoto or vice versa.

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Near To Here: Kamo-gawa Riverside is located in Central Kyoto . See our complete list of things to do in Central Kyoto , including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.

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Katsura River – Kyoto

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The Katsura River in Kyoto is a small yet popular tourist spot in Kyoto that many stop at along the way to the Iwatayama Monkey Park.   The River flows from the mountains beyond Kyoto, and forms from the Oi River and Kiyotaki River. 

The river brings many people together at the river’s edge in the Arashiyama region of Kyoto, as you can find picnic tables and benches here to rest up, grab a bite to eat, or have a lunch date with someone special. 

Scenic boat tours depart the Arashiyama stretch of the river, and make their way up river.  Boat tours vary depending on company, but you can expect to see over 5,000JPY per person for a short guided boat tour.

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Accessing Katsura River

The most popular area of the river can be found just south of Arashiyama Station along the Kyoto streetcar, and about 5 minutes south from Saga Arashiyama Station along the JR Line.

Where to stay near Katsura River

Guest house oumi, nagi kyoto arashiyama, daiwa roynet hotel grande kyoto.

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A Walk Along Kamo River

Kyoto culture through the banks of the Kamogawa

To cap off my Kyoto trip, I opted to walk through the lovely Kamogawa River district during the afternoon. It was the perfect place for people and bird watching – an area to get away from the crowd – as I had tried and failed to wait until sunset.

Kamogawa, which translates to ‘duck river,’ runs throughout Kyoto Prefecture. It is a long stretch of river running from the Kyoto Basin down south to the Yodo River. The walkway caters to locals mostly who are going out and about their daily lives. Tourists also seek this spot to enjoy the sound of the river flowing and for a breath of fresh air, relaxing away from the massive crowd of Kyoto. During the summer, restaurants open their balconies looking out onto the river. This is called “Noryo Yuka” where people enjoy outdoor dining to enjoy the cool breeze of the evening with their food.

One thing about the couples who sit along the riverbank is they always sit a certain distance apart. It is very interesting to look at as it comes from the Japanese culture of respecting other people’s space. I must say that it is quite refreshing to experience how Japanese treat each other with so much respect.

Sometimes, you can also chance upon a Geisha or two, walking on the riverbank. Here, you will find and meet all kinds of people; whether they are jogging, cycling, painting, or just wanting to talk and meet you. I had the privilege of talking to a middle-aged Japanese man who was very eager to talk. It was a few minutes of sharing stories, giving brief backgrounds about our lives, and the happenings around where we were at that moment. It was one of those irreplaceable moments of simple joy where you connect with a stranger even for just a short while.

The Kamogawa River is best to be visited during dusk, or just when the sun is about to set. Afterwards, you can walk through Gion where the alley is beautifully lit up by the street lights and traditional lamps.

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The Wild Duck River in Kyoto

Kamogawa is a Japanese river running in Kyoto from north to south, in Kansai area. Inhabitants and tourists love strolling on its banks and it certainly is a must-see of the ancient imperial capital. Kamo-gawa is also called the "Wild Duck River."

Kamo River runs in the center of Kyoto on about six miles from Demachiyanagi northeast of the city (towards Shimogamo shrine) to the south, not far from Fushimi Inari , where it joins Yodo-gawa. In the west of the city, it has a less popular equivalent: Katsura-gawa.

Kyoto’s Greenbelt

Built on a huge groundwater, Kyoto offers with Kamogawa an impressive and very enjoyable water area, pleasant in all seasons (except when typhoons   🌀 hit). All along, locals and tourists walk or ride their bike  🚲 or dwell a moment on the grass that borders the river.

Around Gion , Pontocho restaurants lay out large terraces, offering customers a very pleasant view, especially on the many birds that wander around the river. In the evening, Kamo-gawa becomes more romantic with the many lights that illuminate it. The north of the river , beyond Demachiyanagi, is also renowned for their numerous blooming cherry trees  🌸 in spring , displaying the ideal scenery for a picnic or simply to relax.

A nice path to visit the city on bicycle

Kamogawa’s banks are used for soft mobility and connect several touristic and cultural sites of the former imperial capital. We thus recommend the following course:

• Rent a bicycle in downtown Kyoto or in Gion district,
• Begin your ride in Pontocho ,
• Ride up along Kamo river to join its mouth in the north of the city ,
• Visit Kamo shrines (Shimogamo and Kamigamo) and Kyoto Botanical Gardens ,
• Ride the riverbank down on the opposite side to go back to your starting point.

On your way, you can stop anytime you please to enjoy a beautiful place, admire the scenery and take a couple of pictures as a souvenir.

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Hozugawa river rafting in Kyoto 🗾 Japan travel blog

I didn’t go rafting on the Hozugawa River, but I did come across people who were going river rafting a few times when I was near the river.

So here’s a bit of a visual in case you’re thinking about going rafting when you’re in Kyoto!

Based on the schedule of this rafting tour , I would say this part of your day would look something like this!

• Take JR train from Kyoto station to Umahori station (near Kameoka scenic train station )

Short walk to meet your rafting tour guides

Short walk to the river.

• Safety instructions at the river

Off you go rafting!

• Go rafting down the Hozugawa river to near Hozukyo station
• JR train back to Umahori to end your tour!

If you’re looking for more to do on your return to Arashiyama after your river rafting experience, here’s what I did for my one day in Arashiyama and Sagano:

• JR train to Kameoka station to take the Sagano scenic railway (with a side trip to Hozugawa River )
• Sagano scenic railway to Arashiyama torokko station
• Visit to Okochi Sanso Garden and teahouse
• Walk through Arashiyama bamboo forest
• Visit to Tenryuji Temple
• Visit to Arashiyama monkey park

When is the best time for rafting in Kyoto?

Rafting tours on the Hozugawa River are offered from April to November.

But the best time to get out on the river is the summer because it can mean a better chance for higher water levels on the river.

And that means it can make for better rapids for that white water rafting experience!

The summer can also make for warmer temperatures which might be more ideal if you don’t want cold water splashing on you!

But even if you go rafting when the temperatures are cooler, you can be provided a wetsuit to protect you from the cold temperatures.

And for something a little less strenuous as a river activity in Kyoto, there’s also the Hozugawa river boat ride so someone can do the rowing for you. 

More below about spending time on the Hozugawa River!

• Best places to visit for your first time in Japan (including famous views!)
• Where to go to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto
• Where to go to see fall colors in Kyoto
• Where to go for winter in Japan
• Where to go to experience tropical Japan
• Where to go for epic snow-capped Mt Fuji views

Here’s a bit of what your day might look like rafting on the Hozugawa River!

Jr train from kyoto station to umahori station.

This particular rafting tour has its base near Umahori, so that’s where this sample schedule will start out.

It’ll be pretty easy to get to Umahori from Kyoto station.

You’ll look for the train that’s going towards Saga-Arashiyama .

Then, you’ll get on that train!

You’ll ride it past Saga-Arashiyama until you reach Umahori.

This will be about a 30 minute train ride.

• Samurai training
• Japanese calligraphy class
• Traditional tea ceremony + you get to wear a kimono!
• Ninja lesson
• Make ramen from scratch!
• Sushi making experience
• Sumo training!

Safety training and rafting instructions at the river…

Practice session…

And then…

You’ll be on the river for about 2 hours, and there may be a break included.

Get off your raft near Hozukyo station

Walk to JR Hozukyo station

JR train back to Umahori!

This will be about a 5 minute ride.

What to do after rafting?!

It’ll be a short walk to the Sagano scenic railway train station of Kameoka torokko station , so you can take the scenic Sagano tourist train back to Arashiyama!

You can get off at Arashiyama torokko station if you want to explore the area a little bit more by foot.

You can go to places like the  Okochi Sanso Garden  (and teahouse ), bamboo forest , Tenryuji Temple , and the monkey park !

Or, if you’re ready to head back to Kyoto station, you can get off at the Saga torokko station, which is right next to the Saga-Arashiyama JR train station.

From there, it will be about a 20 minute train ride back to Kyoto station.

HAPPY HOZUGAWA RIVER RAFTING!

Here are ideas for your Kyoto itinerary !

• Day 1: Top tourist spots with one day bus pass
• Day 2: Fushimi Inari Shrine hike through 1,000 torii gates
• Day 3: Philosopher's Path walk
• Day 4: Arashiyama and Sagano
• Day 5: Kurama Kibune Ohara with one day pass

PLUS Kyoto cherry blossom itinerary and Kyoto fall colors itinerary !

Is a jr pass worth it.

• Google maps can make it easy to figure out whether or not you should get a JR pass!
• In google maps, type in your departure and arrival city, and choose the transit icon. The route will come up, and so will the estimated cost at the bottom!
• Here is an example of a train route with cost on google maps.
• So do that for all of your long distance routes to figure out how much it might cost.
• Next, go here to see how much a JR pass costs from an official JR pass vendor (and partner of this website).
• And compare!
• Not all forms of public transportation are JR, but long distance shinkansen bullet trains are, and that's where the most cost savings will come.

Best of Kyoto (and Japan!)

• Best temples to visit in Kyoto
• Japanese gardens in Kyoto

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• Season ＆ Festivals

NORYO YUKA ＆ KAWADOKO　Summer Riverside Dining

  From the balcony seats along the river flowing through downtown, to the terrace seats bridged over the streams in green valleys, each area offers a different scenery and each restaurant has its own specialties to serve!

Please visit the websites of the restaurants for more details:

KAMOGAWA NORYO YUKA（May 1- October 31）

KAWADOKO in KIFUNE （May 1- September 30）

KAWADOKO in TAKAO （Early April-  Late  September）

SHOZAN KEIRYO YUKA （Late April- September 30）