Alternative routes to the main stops
While the JR Sagano Line is convenient, there are other ways to reach these popular destinations:
– Nijo Castle can also be accessed via Nijojo-mae Station on the Tozai Subway Line, which is even closer to the castle entrance.
– Uzumasa is also served by Uzumasa Tenjingawa Station (Tozai Subway Line) and Randen Tenjingawa Station (Keifuku Line). If coming from central Kyoto, the Tozai Line may be quicker.
– Arashiyama has two additional stations: Hankyu Arashiyama and Keifuku Arashiyama. A scenic option is taking the Hankyu Line to Omiya Station, then transferring to the charming Randen tram to wind through the mountains to Arashiyama.
To find the best route, use online tools like Jorudan or Hyperdia which have route finders for city subways and private railways.
Trains and stations on the JR Sagano Line
The JR Sagano Line has both local and rapid train services, with a total of 15 stations between Kyoto and Sonobe. After Sonobe, the line continues as the San-in Main Line to Fukuchiyama.
For a complete station list and guide, download the free bilingual JR Sagano Line PDF from the official JR website.
The charming Sagano Scenic Railway
Don’t miss riding the Sagano Romantic Train while in Arashiyama. This sightseeing train travels along the abandoned Sanin Main Line route, following the Hozu River through a forested ravine.
The train features vintage locomotives and delightful open-sided cars perfect for admiring the scenery. It stops at picturesque stations like Torokko Saga, Torokko Arashiyama, Torokko Hozukyo and terminates at Torokko Kameoka.
AloJapan.com