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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hozugawa Kudari is a sightseeing experience where you travel down the Hozugawa River (upstream of the Katsura River) in Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture, in a traditional Japanese boat. Set on a river that was once used as a means of transporting lumber and goods by raft or boat, the attraction is that you can simultaneously enjoy the natural beauty of the valley, the thrill of the rapids, and the boatman's storytelling and boatmanship. The boat is manned by a boatman who skillfully steers the boat using an oar and pole. The beauty of the valley changes with the seasons (fresh greenery, cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, snowy scenery), making it a popular tourist route for many years.
Highlights
- The contrast between the beauty of the valley and the rapids: You can experience the thrill of the clear stream, steep rock faces, and fast flowing water all at the same time.
- The colors of the four seasons: You can enjoy different scenery in each season, such as cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, autumn leaves, and the tranquility of winter.
- Boatman's skills and stories: The boatman's impressive boatmanship and stories about the coast (history, origins of place names, etc.) will enrich your trip.
- Photo spots: There are many photogenic spots, such as the cliffs and streams of the valley, and the view towards Arashiyama, where you will arrive.
- Convenience of the one-way route: It is easy to create a sightseeing route with the one-way trip from Kameoka (embark) to Arashiyama (disembark), and it is common to combine it with sightseeing in Arashiyama.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Walking/Bus: The nearest entrance is Kameoka Station on the JR Sagano (Sanin) Line. From Kameoka Station, you can walk to the boarding point, or take a local bus, shuttle bus (seasonal service), or taxi. From Kyoto City, you can access Kameoka from JR Kyoto Station on the Sagano Line.
- Saga/Arashiyama side: Disembark near Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge/Sagano). After disembarking, you can walk to sightseeing spots in the Arashiyama area (bamboo forest, Tenryuji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, etc.). Arashiyama is accessible from both the Hankyu and JR lines.
- By car: There may be paid parking lots near the boarding area. Please check in advance as they may fill up during busy times.
- Reservations/Tickets: Advance reservations are recommended as the buses tend to fill up during peak seasons (cherry blossom and autumn foliage season, holidays). Please check the official website or call to confirm the operating status and how to make a reservation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Boat ride time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to 2 hours (varies depending on the season and water level).
- Overall sightseeing guideline: If you board the ship in Kameoka and disembark at Arashiyama, then plan to visit Arashiyama, it will take half a day to a full day. Please plan your schedule with plenty of time.
Nearby spots
- Arashiyama area (Togetsukyo Bridge, Bamboo Forest Path, Tenryuji Temple, etc.) — Sightseeing available immediately after disembarking.
- Sagano Scenic Railway — See the Hozukyo Gorge from a different angle (between Kameoka and Arashiyama).
- Historical sites and hot springs in Kameoka City (Kameoka Castle Ruins Park, Yunohana Onsen, etc.) - We also recommend combining your stay with a river cruise.
- Hozukyo Gorge Hiking — Enjoy a nature walk along the riverside hiking trail (please be mindful of your physical strength and equipment).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Possibility of cancellation of operations: In the event of flooding, heavy rain, or an approaching typhoon, operations may be suspended or canceled to ensure safety. Please check the official operation information in advance.
- Reservations and crowds: The park is extremely crowded during cherry blossom season, autumn foliage season, and long weekends. We recommend that you make reservations and purchase tickets early.
- Clothing and equipment: You may get splashed with water. Please make sure your camera and smartphone are waterproof, and bring clothing and a jacket that you don't mind getting wet. It is also useful to bring sun protection (a hat and sunscreen).
- Safety and Health: The boat rocks. Please consider this beforehand if you are in poor health, pregnant, have back pain, or need to be careful. Also, be sure to follow the boatman's instructions.
- Manners: Please take your trash with you, do not harm the natural environment or coastal flora and fauna, and do not cause trouble to other passengers or the boatman. When taking photographs, please be considerate and not disturb those around you.
- Toilet Information: Toilet facilities on board may be limited, so it is a good idea to check the facilities at the boarding area before boarding.
(Additional Information) Please be sure to check the official Hozugawa River Boat Tour website or inquiry desk for details on the latest operating times, fares, how to make a reservation, meeting points on the day, shuttles, etc.
