FAQ

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FAQ

Is it safe?

For your safety, we require all passengers to wear a life jacket when taking the Hozugawa River Boat Ride.
Passengers who refuse to wear a life jacket or are unable to wear one will be denied boarding.
We provide life jackets for both adults and children in a variety of sizes.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Hozugawa River Boat Ride Life Jackets

Do I need to make reservations for the boat trip?

Same-day tickets can be purchased directly at the on-site ticket counter.Normally, you can board without waiting; however, during peak periods such as holidays and the autumn foliage season in November, waiting times may occurPlease also note that even outside these periods, waiting times may arise due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances

If you visit during the autumn foliage season without a reservation, we recommend arriving early, as same-day tickets may sell out once capacity is reached.

Please fill out the application form at the reception counter and complete the boarding procedure, then wait for the boarding announcement.
※Please note that the boarding order may change depending on group size combinations.

For advance reservations, groups of 10+ book by phone, and groups of 9 or fewer book online.

Is the boat operated even in the rain? When is it canceled?

Operations will be suspended during high water levels (dangerous conditions) or severe weather, but tours will operate with canopies in rainy conditions.
Umbrellas are not permitted as they may inconvenience other passengers.
Even in clear weather, operations may be suspended due to strong winds or other conditions.
The decision to operate is generally made after assessing conditions on the day.
Please be sure to check the “Operation Status” on our official website on the day of your tour.

Will I receive a refund if the tour is canceled?

For online reservations, a full refund will be processed automatically, and no action is required from the customer.

Could I get wet during the tour? What type of clothing should I wear for the best experience?

Yes, sometimes. If you wish to avoid getting wet, we recommend bringing a raincoat.
Getting splashed is also one of the unique pleasures of the Hozugawa River Boat Ride.

How long does it take?

The duration is approximately 100 minutes, depending on the river’s water level.
During high water levels, it takes about 60 minutes, while during low water levels, it may take around 110 minutes.

Is it possible that we won’t be able to board because it’s full?

During Golden Week and the autumn foliage season in November, there are a few days each year when tours sell out and we may have to turn guests away.

From what age can children board?

Regardless of age, guests under 80 cm in height are not permitted to board.
Guests who are 80 cm or taller may board. Guests who are under 80 cm may not board even if carried in an adult’s arms.
(This is due to safety regulations requiring all passengers to wear life jackets)

Is it safe for pregnant women to board?

We do not recommend boarding before the stable period (up to around 5–6 months of pregnancy), but you may board at your own discretion and responsibility.
We do not refuse boarding; however, please understand that we cannot take any responsibility for safety-related judgments or outcomes.

Can we eat or drink on board?

The ride lasts about 100 minutes, so bringing food and drinks is allowed.
You are welcome to bring bento boxes, snacks, and beverages, as long as it does not disturb other guests.

Are there any toilets on board?

There is a restroom in the waiting area, but there are no restrooms on the boat during the ride, so please be sure to use it beforehand.

Can I bring my pet on board?

Pets may ride on your lap, provided they are kept in a cage or bag and secured so they do not jump out or interfere with boat operation.

What is the best season to go on a Hozugawa River Boat Ride?

Each season has its own unique charm. Spring is a great time to see the cherry blossoms, summer is a refreshing time to enjoy the cool breeze, autumn is a beautiful time to see the fall foliage, and winter is a magical time to see the snow-covered scenery.

Is the Hozugawa River Boat Ride available in the winter?

Yes, from the second Monday of December until March 9, we operate according to the winter schedule. Please be sure to dress warmly when visiting. The ride takes approximately two hours. There are no heating facilities on board.

I'm worried about the sun in the summer.

On days with strong sunlight, we operate the boats with a sunshade canopy.
Sun umbrellas are not permitted, as they may inconvenience other passengers.

I can’t swim… I’m worried.

You will not enter the river, so there is no problem even if you can’t swim.
In addition, life jackets are provided for all passengers, so you can ride with peace of mind.

Can passengers with disabilities board the boat?

Passengers with physical disabilities (Type 1) and children under 12 with Type 2 intellectual disabilities are required to be accompanied by one attendant each. (Both the passenger and the attendant are eligible for a 10% fare discount.)
※ A guide dog can go on board.

Can wheelchair users board the boat?

Wheelchair users may board the boat, but an accompanying person is required even if the passenger can transfer to a seat.
Foldable wheelchairs can be stored at the rear of the boat.
During the ride, passengers must sit on the same backless bench-style seats as other guests.
※Boarding while remaining in the wheelchair is not permitted.
Please note that wheelchairs may get wet from water splashes during the tour.

I’m prone to motion sickness—will I feel sick?

Since there are no large swells like on the sea, motion sickness is unlikely.

Can I pay with a credit card?

Yes, you can pay with a credit card at the ticket office. The following credit cards are accepted:

How far is it from the finishing point to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station?

It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to walk from the finishing point to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station.
Google Map:Hozu-gawa River Boat Ride ship which has arrived place

Can I take photos inside the boat?

Yes, you can take photos inside the boat. However, please be careful not to stand up in the boat, as there are some dangerous areas. If you have any questions, please ask the boatman.

Can I choose my seat?

On regular boats, the seats are assigned by the boatman. Seat selection is possible on private charters.

Is the parking lot close to the ticket office (the boarding point)?

Yes, the ticket office and parking lot are located in the same area.