Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train With Cherry Blossoms Bus Tour

The Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train with Cherry Blossoms Bus Tour offers a breathtaking day through the Arashiyama district. Guests can enjoy stunning views of cherry blossoms during a scenic train ride, followed by a serene boat cruise along the Hozugawakudari River. The tour also includes a delectable buffet lunch and entry to the renowned Tenryuji Temple. With round-trip transportation from Kyoto Station, this experience promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and cultural aficionados alike. What more could one expect from a day in the enchanting landscape of Kyoto?

Key Points

• This full-day Kyoto excursion includes a scenic ride on the Sagano Romantic Train and a boat tour along the Hozu River, showcasing the Arashiyama bamboo forest.
• The tour provides round-trip transfer from Kyoto Station and includes admission to Tenryuji Temple, known for its gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Muso Soseki.
• The tour is priced at $148.58 per person and has a maximum of 40 participants, with a buffet lunch provided during the tour.
• The tour is subject to health and safety guidelines, and cancellations may occur due to weather or low participation, with full refunds issued in such cases.
• Prompt arrival at the 7:30 am (8:30 am on April 2nd) meeting point at Kyoto Station is required, as no refunds are provided for late arrivals.

Overview of the Tour

The Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train with Cherry Blossoms Bus Tour is a full-day excursion that takes travelers on a scenic journey through Kyoto’s picturesque Arashiyama district.

Priced from $148.58 per person, the tour has a maximum of 40 participants and includes a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train, a Hozugawakudari River Boat Ride, lunch, and admission to Tenryuji Temple.

Meeting point is at Kyoto Station, with pickup and drop-off at the same location.

Health and safety guidelines restrict certain travelers, and the tour may be canceled due to weather or lack of minimum participants. Confirmation is subject to availability.

Inclusions

The Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train with Cherry Blossoms Bus Tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation, as well as tickets for the Sagano Romantic Train and Hozugawakudari River Boat Ride. Lunch is provided as a buffet, and admission to Tenryuji Temple is included. Pickup and drop-off at Kyoto Station are part of the round-trip transfer service. Here’s a closer look at what’s included:

Inclusions	Details
Transportation	Air-conditioned vehicle
Train Ticket	Sagano Romantic Train
Boat Ride	Hozugawakudari River Boat
Meal	Buffet Lunch
Admission	Tenryuji Temple
Transfer	Round-trip from Kyoto Station

Meeting and Pickup Information

The tour starts at 07:30 am (8:30 am on April 2nd) at the Kyoto Station Hachijo Entrance Square Sunken Garden, which serves as both the meeting point and end point.

Travelers must arrive promptly, as there are no refunds for late arrivals. The tour ends at the same meeting point after a full day of activities.

Participants should be aware that the schedule may change due to traffic or other unforeseen circumstances.

It’s essential to double-check the meeting time and location to ensure a smooth start to the Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train with Cherry Blossoms Bus Tour.

Health and Safety Guidelines

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.

Infants must sit on laps, and children under 80cm or 0-2 years old aren’t permitted.

Participants are responsible for their own valuables, as large crowds are expected on weekends and holidays.

The tour may be canceled due to natural disasters or inclement weather, with a full refund issued in such cases.

Travelers should arrive promptly, as there are no refunds for late arrivals.

Additional Information

Confirmation of the tour is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The tour requires a minimum of 20 participants, and may be canceled if this threshold isn’t met 14 days prior. The schedule may change due to traffic or other unforeseen circumstances.

Additionally:

1. Cherry blossom blooming dates vary, so there’s no guarantee of seeing the blossoms on the tour day.
2. The Hozu River cruise may be canceled due to weather, in which case a refund of 5000 yen will be provided.
3. High congestion is expected on weekends and holidays.

The Sagano Romantic Train

Although the tour includes a ticket for the renowned Sagano Romantic Train, participants should note that the duration of the train ride is approximately 25 minutes each way.

The train travels along the scenic Hozu River through the Arashiyama bamboo forest, offering panoramic views of the lush greenery and towering mountains.

While a highlight of the tour, travelers should manage their expectations – the train moves at a leisurely pace and doesn’t cover a long distance.

However, the gentle ride and picturesque setting create a romantic ambiance that complements the overall Kyoto experience.

Hozugawakudari River Boat Ride

The Hozugawakudari River Boat Ride takes travelers down the Hozu River, offering a serene and scenic experience as they float through the picturesque Arashiyama gorge.

The experience includes:

1. Drifting along the river’s gentle currents, surrounded by lush greenery and towering cliffs.
2. A delightful boat ride that lasts approximately 16 kilometers and takes around 2 hours to complete.
3. The chance to witness the breathtaking natural beauty of the Arashiyama region, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landscapes.

While the boat ride may be canceled due to weather conditions, it provides a tranquil and memorable addition to the overall Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train with Cherry Blossoms Bus Tour.

Tenryuji Temple

Tenryuji Temple, one of Kyoto’s most significant Zen temples, stands as a prominent feature of the Arashiyama landscape. Founded in 1339, the temple offers impressive views of the Bamboo Grove and the Katsura River.

Visitors can explore the main hall, Hatto, which features gorgeous wall paintings. The temple’s gardens, designed by the famous landscape architect Muso Soseki, are a highlight, showcasing beautiful ponds, bridges, and pagodas.

Admission to the temple is included in the tour, allowing travelers to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and rich history of this important religious site in Kyoto.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Specific Date?

Yes, you can book the tour for a specific date. The tour operator offers confirmed departures, and you can select the date that works best for your travel plans when making your reservation.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Layers are suggested to account for temperature changes throughout the day’s activities. Sturdy walking shoes are advised for the various outdoor sights.

Are Vegetarian/Dietary Restriction Meal Options Available?

The tour includes a buffet lunch, but it doesn’t specify if vegetarian or dietary restriction options are available. Travelers with special dietary needs should check with the tour operator in advance to inquire about meal accommodations.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a buffet lunch is included in the tour price, so bringing your own meal may not be necessary. Check with the tour operator about any restrictions on outside food and beverages.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration cannot be extended. The tour has a fixed schedule and end time. Travelers must arrive promptly at the start time, as there are no refunds for late arrivals.

The Sum Up

The Kyoto Sagano Romantic Train with Cherry Blossoms Bus Tour offers a delightful opportunity to experience the enchanting beauty of Arashiyama. Guests can enjoy a scenic train ride, a peaceful boat ride, and explore the historic Tenryuji Temple, all while indulging in a buffet lunch. This tour is a perfect choice for nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers looking to enjoy the charm of Kyoto.