This Arashiyama experience NO ONE talks about… ✨✨ #arashiyama #kyoto

This Arashiyama experience NO ONE talks about… ✨✨ #arashiyama #kyoto

Here’s an underrated activity in Kyoto that lets you enjoying Arashima’s breathtaking views without the crowds. Forget the bamboo forest. This is the Hugawa River Boat Rate, a 2-hour experience that takes you from Kameoka to Arashima. Most of the ride is calm and peaceful with a few exciting bumps perfect for foliage or cherry blossom viewing. Along the way, you can spot wildlife like turtles, water birds, and ducks. On top the views, the boat crew is so funny and full personality. They will entertain you with stories, fun facts, and even point out quirky rock formations shaped like animals like an elephant or Snoopy. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of passing trains like the Sagono Romantic Train or JR. This is such a fun way to experience Alashima more deeply.

Arashiyama Boat Ride Details 👇

Arashiyama in Kyoto has so much more to offer than just the bamboo forest!

Riding the Hozugawa River Boat is one of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of the area. Head to:

📍 Hozugawa River Boat Ride, Kameoka, Kyoto, Japan

🚣 ABOUT THE BOAT RIDE 🚣

This 16 km journey takes you from Kameoka to Arashiyama’s Togetsukyo Bridge, lasting between 1-2 hours, depending on the water levels.

Along the way, you’ll spot various wildlife, giving you a perfect opportunity to get up close with the local animals.

The ride is mostly peaceful and calm, with a few exciting bumps here and there—nothing to worry about!

It’s ideal for enjoying foliage in the fall and cherry blossoms in the spring, though each season offers its own unique beauty.

💰 PRICING 💰

¥6,000 per person
tickets are available in advance or on the spot (limited availability).

💝 TIPS FOR A SMOOTH RIDE 💝

Pair this boat ride with the Sagano Romantic Train to Kameoka for a complete scenic experience. Alternatively, the JR train is faster and less crowded.

If you’re worried about getting wet, no problem—the ride is calm, and the crew provides water-block covers for those sitting on the edges.

Check the site for real-time updates about water and wind conditions to ensure the boat is running.

🌸 Save this for your next Kyoto trip and let me know if you’ve tried it!