Next stop, Kameoka: Must-Visit Hidden Gems Off the Sagano Scenic Railway

Imagine yourself on a scenic train ride in Kyoto’s mountainous countryside of Saga-Arashiyama. Can you see it? Rugged mountains tower next to you and lush green trees shade you as the rhythmic lull of the train echoes in the background.

As you continue down the Sagano Scenic Railway from Arashiyama, you’ll soon arrive at Torokko Kameoka Station. Kameoka city is nestled in Woodland Kyoto and offers a blend of natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and adventure. Here, you can relive history by visiting Omoto Headquarters, built by the infamous assassin of Oda Nobunaga. Or perhaps you’d prefer to experience rich cultural traditions at Mori no Station Kameoka. Don’t fret, fellow adventurers, there’s plenty for you to experience here, as well. Thrill-seekers will love racing down the rapids on the Hozu-gawa River Boat Ride.

No matter your style, Kameoka makes an ideal destination full of hidden gems for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Are you ready? All aboard the Sagano Romantic Train for Kameoka!

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Omoto Headquarters (Ruins of Tamba Kameyama Castle)

Omoto headquarters moat and autumn leaves

Our first stop is the ruins of Tamba Kameyama Castle. It was originally built in 1577 by the samurai Akechi Mitsuhide, infamous for assassinating Oda Nobunaga. The castle, perched on Mt. Arazuka overlooking the Hozu-gawa River, served as Mitsuhide’s base during his Tamba invasion. Although destroyed in 1868 following the Meiji Restoration, the castle’s stone walls have been restored by the Omoto organization, allowing visitors to explore its historical remnants. The moss-covered stones and tranquil forest setting provide a unique glimpse into Japan’s samurai past. Visits require a reservation, available through the Omoto Headquarters general reception. This one-of-a-kind destination is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Access:
Walking: About 10 min. from Kameoka Stn. on the JR Sagano Line

Omoto Headquarters (Ruins of Tamba Kameyama Castle)

In 1577, the samurai Akechi Mitsuhide, known as the assassin of warlord Oda Nobunaga, built a castle here as his base for his Tamba invasion. Hirayama Castle was built on a hill (Mt. Arazuka) overlook …

Two people walking down the Yawaragi Road lined with cherry blossom trees in full bloom

Do you love Japanese cherry blossoms? If so, the Nanatani-gawa River in Kameoka City is for you. In the height of cherry blossom season, 1,500 Somei-yoshino cherry trees create a stunning floral corridor down both banks for about 1 kilometer. Next to the river is Sakura Park. The park features an additional 280 cherry trees of 28 varieties, making it a must-visit during the cherry blossom season. Each spring, the Cherry Blossom Festival attracts crowds with its enchanting light-up events. A short 25-minute walk from the river leads to Izumo-Dai-jingu Shrine, the highest-ranking Shinto shrine in the Tamba region. Unwind and soak in the serene beauty of Nanatani-gawa River – your perfect nature escape.

Access:
Bus: From Kameoka Station on the JR Sagano Line, take Kameoka City Bus for approximately 15 min. and get off at “Nanatanigawa” bus stop.

Nanatani-gawa River (Yawaragi Road)

Approximately 1,500 blossoming Somei-yoshino cherry trees line both banks of the Nanatani-gawa River, extending for about 1 km and making this a popular blossom-viewing location. Adjacent to the river …

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Omoto Headquarters (Ruins of Tamba Kameyama Castle)

Omoto Headquarters (Ruins of Tamba Kameyama Castle)

Nanatani-gawa River (Yawaragi Road)

Nanatani-gawa River (Yawaragi Road)

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