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Japan/Things to Do in Kyoto, with kids

Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari) (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari)?

76%Kids-Friendly
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What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: Children over 80 cm get free life jackets and enjoy mild rapids and boatmen’s songs, but there are no toilets or shade stops for two hours, so guardians must plan breaks and carry snacks.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 4,476 reviews)
Hozugawa River Cruise - Exciting boat ride in Arashiyama, Kyoto 2023
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Hozugawa River Cruise - Exciting boat ride in Arashiyama, Kyoto 2023
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Hozugawa River Cruise Arashiyama Kyoto, October 30th, 2022
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Hozugawa River Cruise Arashiyama Kyoto, October 30th, 2022
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Kyoto's Most Breathtaking River Adventure! - Hozugawa Boat Ride (4K)
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Kyoto's Most Breathtaking River Adventure! - Hozugawa Boat Ride (4K)
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If You Come To KYOTO JAPAN You Should Try This ! ( Hozugawa River Cruises )
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If You Come To KYOTO JAPAN You Should Try This ! ( Hozugawa River Cruises )
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Positives:

  • Interactive experience: Crew sings folk songs and shares easy English stories.
  • Scenic variety: Rapids, boulders, and riverside cliffs change throughout the ride.
  • Easy Arashiyama access: Boat ends near Togetsukyo Bridge for more family sightseeing.

Challenges:

  • No toilets onboard: Restrooms are only available before boarding at Kameoka and after disembark at Arashiyama.
  • Height requirement: Children must be at least 80 cm tall to ride; infants cannot join.
  • Possible splash: Kids may get wet in cooler months; bring a change of clothes.
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What is Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari)?

  • A riverboat excursion traversing the 16-kilometer Hozugawa corridor between Kameoka and Arashiyama in Kyoto Prefecture
  • A craft that experienced boatmen propel and steer through the Hozugawa Gorge’s rapids, boulders, and winding rock formations
  • A seasonal attraction operating from spring through autumn amid cherry blossoms, maple foliage, and steep-sided riverside cliffs

What is so special about Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari) for with kids?

  1. Kids love the gentle rapids and friendly crew songs.
  2. Spot unique rock formations and passing trains.
  3. Mid-ride snack boat adds local treats fun.
  4. Heated boats available in winter for warmth.
  5. Convenient end point near Arashiyama highlights.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour trip covers rapids, mid-ride snack stop, and arrival at Arashiyama without rushing.

(View Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari) on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari)

Seat near the rapids:

Kids get a splash as the boat hits small waves.

Tip: Ask the crew to seat children on the side that faces the rapids for more fun.

Spot famous rock formations:

See Lion Rock and Eboshi-iwa along the gorge.

Tip: Keep your camera ready when the crew points them out.

Try punting with the crew:

Help push the boat with a bamboo pole on calm stretches.

Tip: Raise your hand to join when the crew offers.

Enjoy riverside snacks:

Buy taiyaki cakes and tea from a boat vendor mid-trip.

Tip: Carry small change (¥300–¥500 per item) to grab treats quickly.

When is the best time to visit Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari) (Kyoto, Japan)?

In spring, watch cherry blossoms along the cliffs; in autumn, admire red maple leaves. Winter rides have heated shelters—book a winter departure for warmth.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Kyoto on Trip.com

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Reviews of Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari) (Kyoto)

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Matthew Sharpe

Matthew Sharpe

Jul 2025

**American Family Visiting** There was plenty of parking onsite and the facilities were clean and staff was friendly. There was some English available for tickets, safety videos, and announcements. Purchasing the ticket was easy at the counter. There is no electronic ticket machine. Inside is also a souvenir shop and food/drinks which can be brought onto the boat. Boats normally launch when ...

Matthew

Matthew

Jun 2025

This experience was an absolute blast! The crew working is very funny and knowledgable and overall a very good time. The value for this experience is very good, and I will highly recommend it. We were able to see some birds that we never saw in the city, as well as some wild monkeys. It was lots of fun.

Sae

Sae

Jun 2025

This was such a fun and adventurous experience! The staff were incredibly friendly and made it even more enjoyable by giving us a humorous and engaging tour during the boat ride. Excellent service and warm hospitality all around. One tip: if it’s a sunny day, be sure to apply sunscreen beforehand—it can get quite hot out on the water.

Casey White

Casey White

May 2025

This boat ride is approximately 2 hours in duration. It was a very leisure ride with a few light rapids (which were my favorite part). We did not get wet at all. The boat was comfortable and the crew were very engaging and fun. We also saw some nice wildlife along the way. At the end of your ride, there is a refreshment boat with snacks and drinks available for purchase. We tried the dango, which ...

Belle Nippanon

Belle Nippanon

Apr 2025

The Hozugawa river boat ride was such a fun and relaxing experience. The 2-hour journey was filled with calm and cool weather, making it a perfect way to unwind. There were a few exciting moments along the way, but nothing too scary—just enough to keep it interesting. There were three boatmen who took turns rowing. They were incredibly strong, professional, and friendly. They kept chatting with u...

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Adult tickets (2 x ¥6,000)JPY 12,000
Child tickets (2 x ¥4,500)JPY 9,000
Total EstimatedJPY 21,000

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari)

  1. Book online early: Reserve tickets in advance to secure preferred morning slots.
  2. Wear quick-dry clothes: Choose clothes that dry fast after rapids splash.
  3. Combine with Sagano Train: Return by Sagano Scenic Railway to extend the adventure.
🚗 Planning to explore multiple Kyoto attractions? A rental car often costs less than daily taxi trips. Check Trip.com for deals. New users save up to 8% OFF.

Map of Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari)

Address: Japan, 〒621-0005 京都府亀岡市保津町下中島2

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari) (Kyoto)?

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About Hozugawa River Boat Ride (Hozugawa Kudari)

Opening Hours

Monday:9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Tuesday:9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday:9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday:9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday:9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+81 771-22-5846

Average price

US$ 41.53
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Average price

US$ 41.53
Promo on Trip.com
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Book on Trip.com
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