Most Arashiyama itineraries include strolling through the bamboo forest, visiting Tenryuji Temple, hanging out by the Togetsukyo Bridge, and popping in and out of the quaint shops. However, if you have more time, why not go on a scenic two-hour cruise along the Hozugawa River?

Dating back to 1600, the wooden boats were used to transport logs and rice down the river. The cruises run from Arashiyama to Kameoka: in the past, boats were pulled back to the starting point by ropes (which takes a whopping four hours). Now, they’re driven back by trucks — and have been transformed into a sightseeing attraction.

The traditional flat-bottomed boats are manually paddled along the river by boatmen with oars and bamboo poles. They operate during light rain (with a roof and plastic rain covers), and are heated in winter. The rides will unfortunately be suspended in the event of heavy rain, or surges in the water level.

Sit back and relax, as you travel through ravines and canyons, surrounded by dense forests. The boat ride is especially popular during spring, when you’ll pass by plenty of sakura trees; as well as in autumn, when the landscape is painted in hues of red and gold.

The boat journey goes along 16 kilometres of the Hozugawa River. The trip is calm in most parts due to the broad width of the river; however, the waters can get slightly choppy during some parts that narrow.

Feel free to buy some food to bring along on the ride. Alcohol is even permitted onboard, but smoking is prohibited. This was our favourite part: sometime during the journey, a cute floating “boat café” will pull up alongside your boat, where you can buy hot food and drink for the rest of the journey.

You might even catch sight of the Sagano Scenic Railway — give the passengers a wave if you do!

How do you buy tickets for the Hozugawa River Cruise?

The boat fare is JPY4,100 (~SGD41), and operates all year around, except from 29th December to 4th January each year. Check the official website for the exact timings. The boat departs multiple times a day, and tickets can be purchased at the departure point.

To get there, take a train to JR Kameoka Station, followed by a ten-minute walk to the departure point. If you take the Sagano Scenic Railway from Arashiyama, alight at Kameoka Torokko Station, and take a shuttle bus to the departure point. It’ll otherwise be a 30-minute walk.