The Sagano Romantic Train & Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera, Fushimi Inari Taisha Day Tour offers an immersive experience in Kyoto’s iconic landscapes and cultural gems. Travelers can savor a scenic train ride through the bamboo forest, explore the stunning Kiyomizudera Temple, and marvel at the vibrant Fushimi Inari Shrine. With hassle-free transportation and expert guidance, this tour provides an excellent value for first-time visitors seeking to uncover Kyoto’s enchanting wonders. What makes this tour stand out from the rest?
Key Points

- A comprehensive day trip that takes visitors to UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto, including a scenic train ride through the Arashiyama bamboo forest.
- Highlights include visits to Kiyomizudera Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, and exploration of the Arashiyama district.
- Hassle-free transportation with air-conditioned buses, Sagano Romantic Train ticket, and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Tour is not wheelchair accessible, and strollers are not permitted on the Sagano Torokko train.
- Positive customer feedback emphasizes the scenic beauty, convenience, and good value for money, with some suggestions for improvement in certain areas.
Tour Overview

The Sagano Romantic Train & Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera, Fushimi Inari Taisha Day Tour is a comprehensive day trip ideal for first-time visitors to Osaka, Japan.
This tour features a scenic train ride, visits to two UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto, and exploration of Arashiyama Park and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
With a 4.3 rating from 55 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, the tour offers excellent value at $77.64 per person.
The full-day itinerary includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, optional lunch, and more, ensuring a hassle-free experience for travelers.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Osaka.
Highlights of the Itinerary
A scenic train ride aboard the Sagano Romantic Train is the highlight of this day tour.
Winding through the lush Arashiyama bamboo forest, this enchanting journey offers breathtaking vistas.
Following the train ride, the tour visits two UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto – the stunning Kiyomizudera Temple and the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its vermilion torii gates.
In between, guests can explore the serene Arashiyama district, home to the iconic bamboo grove.
With seamless transportation and an expert guide, this comprehensive tour provides an efficient and immersive introduction to Kyoto’s most renowned landmarks.
Transportation and Logistics

One of the key benefits of this tour is the hassle-free transportation it provides. Guests are picked up from designated meeting points and transported between landmarks via an air-conditioned bus with free Wi-Fi. This ensures a seamless experience, with no need to navigate public transport or worry about getting lost. The included Sagano Romantic Train ticket also allows for a scenic rail journey, adding to the overall immersive experience.
| Transportation Included | Details |
|---|---|
| Bus | Air-conditioned with free Wi-Fi |
| Sagano Romantic Train | Scenic railway journey |
| Hotel Pickup & Drop-off | Convenient transfers |
This comprehensive transportation plan allows visitors to focus on enjoying the tour’s highlights rather than logistics.
Accessibility and Age Policy

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, children aged 0-2 can join the tour free of charge, with no seat or meal provided.
Strollers are also not permitted on the Sagano Torokko train.
Travelers are required to check-in at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time, as the bus won’t wait for late arrivals.
An emergency call center is available 30 minutes before the tour starts, in case any issues arise.
Meeting Points and Emergency Assistance

Travelers must check-in at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time, as the bus won’t wait for late arrivals.
The tour provides a designated meeting point for pickup, ensuring hassle-free transportation.
Should any issues arise, a call center is available 30 minutes before the tour departs. This provides a safety net for travelers, allowing them to address concerns promptly.
With these measures in place, the tour strives to deliver a seamless and stress-free experience, allowing participants to focus on the scenic beauty and cultural highlights that await them throughout the day.
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Positive Customer Feedback

Travelers have consistently highlighted the scenic beauty and convenience offered by the Sagano Romantic Train & Arashiyama, Kiyomizudera, Fushimi Inari Taisha Day Tour.
The guides have been praised for their informative and organized approach, ensuring a seamless experience. Many reviewers noted the tour’s good value for money, especially considering the comprehensive nature of the day trip.
While some visitors mentioned overcrowding and discomfort during the train ride, the majority of feedback emphasizes the overall enjoyment of the journey, from the stunning views to the guided exploration of Kyoto’s cultural gems.
Constructive Criticism From Travelers

While the tour generally received positive feedback, some travelers noted areas for improvement. A few mentioned overcrowding and discomfort during the Sagano Romantic Train ride.
Others suggested longer stops at attractions, especially the iconic bamboo forest in Arashiyama. Plus, there was mixed feedback on the lunch options, particularly for vegetarian and vegan guests.
Exploring Kyoto’s Cultural Gems

The Sagano Romantic Train whisks visitors through the stunning Arashiyama bamboo forest, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landscapes. Travelers then explore the historic Kiyomizudera temple, known for its large veranda offering panoramic views of the city. The tour continues to Fushimi Inari Taisha, the famous Shinto shrine with its striking orange torii gates winding up a mountain. This comprehensive day trip allows first-time visitors to enjoy Kyoto’s cultural treasures efficiently. As showcased in the table below, the tour provides a well-rounded experience across Kyoto’s UNESCO-listed landmarks and natural wonders.
| Landmark | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Arashiyama Bamboo Forest | Serene, towering bamboo groves |
| Kiyomizudera Temple | Iconic wooden veranda, stunning views |
| Fushimi Inari Taisha | Iconic orange torii gates, spiritual atmosphere |
| Sagano Romantic Train | Scenic railway through Arashiyama |
| Guided Exploration | Knowledgeable, English-speaking guides |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Time Does the Tour Depart and Return?
The tour departs at a designated meeting point and returns later in the day, ensuring hassle-free travel between landmarks. Exact departure and return times are provided upon booking to allow participants to plan their schedules accordingly.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
No, the tour itinerary can’t be customized. It’s a pre-designed package that provides a rundown of top Kyoto sights. Travelers must follow the set schedule and activities included in the tour.
Are Any COVID-19 Safety Measures in Place?
COVID-19 safety protocols are in place, including reduced capacity, mandatory mask-wearing, and enhanced cleaning procedures. Travelers can expect a safe and responsible tour experience that prioritizes health and well-being.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The tour operator offers flexible cancellation and refund policies, allowing travelers to modify or cancel their bookings up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure with a full refund, subject to availability.
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, you can take photos during the tour. The tour allows participants to freely capture the scenic views and cultural landmarks along the way, though photography may be restricted in certain areas for preservation reasons.
The Sum Up
This day tour offers an enchanting and efficient way for first-time visitors to Kyoto to explore the city’s cultural gems. The Sagano Romantic Train, Kiyomizudera Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine provide a well-rounded introduction to Kyoto’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks. With hassle-free transportation and an experienced guide, travelers can enjoy the city’s rich history and stunning landscapes at an excellent value.
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