'World's most scenic journey': This train ride in Japan has open windows. Cherry blossoms, forests, mountains, wildlife - you can see it all.

Train journeys hold a special place in the heart of every traveller. As the train chugs on, you watch the ever-changing landscape from the window, perhaps sipping on a hot cup of tea as thoughts flood into your mind. If train rides have your heart, then this summer, plan a trip to Japan. If you are asking yourself why you would travel all the way to Japan for a simple train journey, then you must know that the Sagano Romantic Train has been named the ‘world’s most scenic train journey by travel insurance company InsureandGo.

All about Japan’s Sagano Romantic Train

The Sagano Romantic Train is a sightseeing express that runs between Saga Torokko Station and Kameoka Torokko Station in western Kyoto, through forested ravines of Arashiyama and along the Hozugawa River. It has achieved an impressive score of 91.9 out of 100.



Established in 1990, the Sagano Scenic Railway Co., Ltd. originally had only 9 staff members, as per the official website. The train used to be a small freight train that transported goods to places difficult to service by trucks or standard rail. Later, it was transformed into an open-window heritage train for tourism purposes.

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What to expect in the train ride

The 7 km-long trail, which takes approximately 25 minutes to cover, offers tourists a one-of-a-kind experience to soak in the beauty of the pristine surroundings. What’s more, every season has something to offer. In spring, you can witness the pastel pink cherry blossoms as winds carry the petals in the air, and in summer, the lush greenery and bamboo forests feel too refreshing. Autumn foliage of maple trees paints the valley red during the season and the white snow-sheathed landscape in winter is equally mesmerising.

The train moves slowly along the Hozugawa River valley, allowing passengers to fully absorb the views around them and click pictures of the river winding through dramatic cliffs and lush mountains. If you travel in Cabin number 5 specifically, you will be bestowed with an Art Deco-style interior featuring wooden chairs and bare light bulbs.

The Sagano Romantic Train whisks you away from the comforts of everyday life and takes you on an extraordinary journey surrounded by the sounds of nature, gentle breeze and occasional wildlife sightings.

How to reach

By air: Fly into Kansai International Airport, then take a train or airport limousine bus to Kyoto and onward to Saga-Arashiyama.

By train: From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station, a short walk from Saga Torokko Station.

By road: Take a taxi or bus from central Kyoto to Arashiyama, reaching Saga Torokko Station in about 20–30 minutes.