Arashiyama, Kyoto｜"Kouki no Fantasy Train" (Kouki no Fantasy Train) Ride Guide: Lighting Times, Additional Departures, Ticket Purchase and Transportation Information

Walking through the Hozu River Valley (Hozu Gorge) in Arashiyama, Kyoto, on an autumn night, and catching a lighted tourist train (toroko train) along the route, the windows are filled with people who are about to be killed.1,000 lighting unitsThe Sagano Tourist Railway's annual limited-time event, where the leaves, mountains, and sparkling river are illuminated, is a great opportunity for you to experience the beauty of the Sagano Tourist Railway."Kou no Fantasy Train" (Light Fantasy Train)In 2025, the event will be held, and temporary trains will be added during popular hours, so if you want to take advantage of this "Kyoto's most beautiful night", this article will show you all about it at once.Lighting hours, additional frequencies, ticketing, same-day pickup and venue routes。

Event Highlights

• Name:"Kou no Fantasy Train" (Light Fantasy Train)
• District:Sagano Sightseeing Railroad Sagano - Arashiyama - Hotejinkyo - Kameoka (Sightseeing Train Route)
• Featured:Along the routeLIGHT UP與Irmines (Lighting)Night ride to enjoy the fall colors of the Valley of Dreams.

Lighting Period and Time (2025)

2025/10/25 (Sat) ～ 12/29 (Mon)
(soup etc) of the day From 16:30 until the last train(Depending on the train time of each day)
※ 12/17 (Wed.) No lights will be turned on during the holiday.

Temporary Train (Extra Train) Information

Period: Sagano 81/82

Running Day:2025/10/25 (Sat) ～ 12/14 (Sun)

Peak period re-opening: 91/92 Sagano

Running Day:2025/11/22 (Sat) ～ 11/30 (Sun), 12/5 (Fri) ～ 12/7 (Sun)

※ The specific time is based on the official booking page; in order to disperse the crowds, it is recommended to prioritize the additional time slots.

Ticket Purchase Methods and Opening Hours

Purchase tickets online:Before the day of travel1 month JST 00:00From Sagano Kanko RailroadOfficial WebsiteOpen for purchase.
Official Website (Ticket Portal)

• Tickets purchased at the station window (same day coupon):Window at each station (Except for "Torokko Hozu Gorge Station".The tickets are available on the day of the event, but they are easily filled.There's no guarantee you'll get it.。
• Ticket type and seating:Tickets are sold according to designated schedules and seats are available while supplies last.

Little reminder:Demand is high for the foliage and weekend nights, and popular trips are often sold out.Priority online booking is recommended。

Highlights of the ride and suggestions for the best views

• Baojin River Valley (Baojin Gorge):At night, the streams reflect the light, and the red leaves contrast with each other, creating a very layered effect.
• Cornering Angle of View:The most popular moment is when the front and rear compartments of the train are framed with the illuminated valley as it rounds a curve.
• Weather and Clothing:The nights in the valley are cool, please bring a warm jacket and scarf; the wind is noticeable near the windows.TyphoonIt's important.
• Photography etiquette:請Do not use flashThe phone can be used instead of a tripod to avoid occupying the space for a long time.RecordingsCapture the flow of light and shadow.

Trip Planning Suggestion (with Arashiyama Night Scattering)

Take a stroll around Arashiyama and Watanuki Bridge before dusk, and then take the Light Fantasy Train to experience the illuminated valley in the evening. After returning to Arashiyama, take a walk along the Katsura River or warm up with desserts.

Transportation and Mobility

• Recent station:JR Saga Arashiyama Station ConnectionsTroco Saga StationYou can also walk to each station by transferring from Hankyu or Keifuku (Arashiden).
• Round trip:A common route is "Troku Saga → Troku Kameoka", then transfer to the ordinary railroad to Arashiyama/Kyoto, or return by the same train.
• Spike Control:The entrances and exits are more crowded in the evening and night time during the peak foliage season, so please reserve time for waiting and moving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Do you stop driving when it rains?

A. The event is a long term light show.The principle will continue to operate as usualIn case of bad weather or safety considerations, the official website and on-site announcements will prevail.

Q2. Can I bring bulky baggage?

A. Space is limited in the vehicle and it is not recommended to carry oversized baggage; please use lightweight equipment as much as possible.

Q3. Can I choose my seat freely?

A. Seats are allocated according to the frequency of purchase and are limited. To enjoy the view, it is recommended thatAdvance BookingChoose the right time slot.

Safety and Etiquette Reminders

• The valley is cold and dark at night, so please wear non-slip shoes and pay attention to the edge of the platform.
• Please take care of other people's sightlines and avoid umbrellas/scaffolding.
• Please follow the guidance of station staff and queue for boarding and alighting.

Conclusion｜Annual Kyoto Night Maple Festival

The "Kouki no Fantasy Train" transforms the autumn nights of Arashiyama and the Hotsunagawa Valley into a poem of light and shadow flowing through the windows of the train. CatchOpening time與increase the frequencyIf you're in Kyoto, make it a part of your itinerary - you'll know when the train is drilling into the light-drenched valleys: that's the magic of Kyoto in the fall season.