Keifuku Randen Tram Line Kyoto
A Randen Line tram
The Keifuku Randen Tram Line is a unique and historic transportation system in Kyoto, offering visitors a charming way to explore the western parts of the city. Consisting of two main branches, the Arashiyama Line and the Kitano Line, this nostalgic streetcar network provides easy access to popular tourist destinations and world heritage sites. As the last remaining tram line in Kyoto, the Randen offers not just a means of transport but a journey through time, allowing passengers to experience the city's blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you're headed to the bamboo groves of Arashiyama or the golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji, the Randen tram promises a scenic and memorable ride through Kyoto's western districts.
Understanding the Keifuku Randen Tram Line system
The Keifuku Randen Tram Line, operated by Keifuku Electric Railroad, is comprised of two main lines:
1. The Arashiyama Line: This 7.2 km line runs from Shijo Omiya to Randen Arashiyama in the western part of the city. It takes approximately 22 minutes to complete the full journey, passing through 13 stations.
2. The Kitano Line: This 3.8 km line connects Kitano Hakubaicho near Kitano Tenmangu Shrine to Katabiranotsuji Station on the Arashiyama Line. The journey takes about 11 minutes and includes 10 stations.
The Randen operates like a tram, running at street level through the city, providing passengers with a more intimate view of Kyoto's neighborhoods compared to elevated train lines. This unique characteristic makes the Randen not just a mode of transport, but an attraction in itself, especially for train enthusiasts and those looking to experience Kyoto from a different perspective.
Randen Line Map © Keifuku Railways
The Randen Line is Kyoto's last remaining streetcar
Ticketing and fare information for the Randen
Using the Randen is straightforward, with a simple ticketing system that makes it accessible for visitors:
- Flat fare: Adults pay 220 yen, while children (6-11 years old) pay 110 yen for any journey on the line.
- Randen Fares All Day Ticket: For 500 yen (adults) or 250 yen (children), passengers can enjoy unlimited rides for a day. This ticket also includes special promotions for various attractions along the line.
- IC Cards: The Randen accepts major IC travel cards such as Suica, ICOCA, and manaca, making it convenient for frequent travelers.
- Kyoto Subway·Randen 1-day Pass: For 1,300 yen, this pass offers unlimited rides on both the Randen and Kyoto Municipal Subway for a day, providing excellent value for extensive city exploration.
It's important to note that the Japan Rail Pass does not cover the Keifuku Railway lines. For visitors planning to use the Randen frequently, purchasing a day pass or using an IC card can be more economical and convenient than buying individual tickets.
How to ride the Randen: boarding, exiting, and etiquette
Riding the Randen is a unique experience, and understanding the process can enhance your journey:
- Boarding: Enter the tram from the rear door. At major stations, you can purchase tickets from machines before boarding, but it's not necessary.
- During the ride: Enjoy the scenery and press the "Stop" button when approaching your destination.
- Exiting: At most stops, exit from the front door and pay your fare to the driver. At major stations like Shijo Omiya, Kitano Hakubaicho, Katabiranotsuji, or Randen Arashiyama, pay at the station gate instead.
- Etiquette: Keep noise to a minimum, avoid eating on the tram, and be mindful of other passengers, especially during busy times.
Remember, the Randen operates more like a street-level tram than a typical train, offering a more intimate view of Kyoto's streets and neighborhoods. This unique characteristic adds to the charm of the journey, allowing you to experience the city from a local's perspective.
Randen Line streetcar in west Kyoto
A Randen Line tram at a level crossing in Kyoto
Major stations and transfer points on the Randen lines
The Randen lines feature several key stations that serve as important transfer points or gateways to popular attractions:
- Shijo Omiya: The eastern terminus, connecting with the Hankyu Line and numerous city buses.
- Randen Tenjingawa: Close to Uzumasa Tenjingawa Station on the Tozai Line of the Kyoto subway.
- Uzumasa-Koryuji: Convenient for visiting Toei Kyoto Studio Park and Koryuji Temple.
- Katabiranotsuji: The transfer point between the Arashiyama and Kitano lines.
- Randen Arashiyama: The western terminus, providing access to major attractions in Arashiyama.
- Kitano Hakubaicho: The northern terminus, near Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.
- Ryoanji: Though still a walk, this is the closest station to the famous Ryoanji Temple.
- Myoshinji: Provides access to Myoshinji Temple complex.
- Omuro-Ninnaji: Close to Ninnaji Temple, known for its beautiful cherry blossoms.
These stations serve as gateways to some of Kyoto's most renowned attractions, making the Randen an essential part of many visitors' itineraries in western Kyoto.
A Randen Line tram at Myoshinji Station
Popular attractions accessible via the Randen
The Randen lines provide convenient access to numerous must-see attractions in western Kyoto, making it an excellent choice for sightseeing:
Arashiyama Line:
- Tenryuji: A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its beautiful landscape garden.
- Nonomiya Shrine: A small shrine in the heart of Arashiyama, known for its connection to The Tale of Genji.
- Kimono Forest: An art installation at Arashiyama Station featuring hundreds of kimono fabric designs.
- Koryuji Temple: Said to be the oldest temple in Kyoto, accessible from Uzumasa-Koryuji Station.
Kitano Line:
- Kitano Tenmangu Shrine: Famous for its plum blossoms and monthly flea market.
- Ryoanji Temple: Home to Japan's most famous Zen rock garden.
- Ninnaji Temple: Known for its beautiful late-blooming cherry trees called "Omuro Sakura".
- Myoshinji Temple: A vast temple complex with numerous sub-temples and beautiful gardens.
The Randen not only takes you to these destinations but also offers scenic views along the way, particularly during cherry blossom season when parts of the route are lined with blooming cherry trees. This combination of convenience and scenery makes the Randen an attraction in itself, enhancing the overall Kyoto experience.
Randen Arashiyama Tram Station, home of the Kimono Forest
Special passes and discounts for Randen travelers
To maximize value and convenience for visitors, the Randen offers several special passes and discounts:
- Randen All Day Ticket: For 500 yen (adults) or 250 yen (children), this pass offers unlimited rides on both Randen lines for a day. It also includes special promotions and discounts at various attractions along the routes.
- Kyoto Subway·Randen 1-day Pass: Priced at 1,300 yen, this comprehensive pass allows unlimited rides on both the Randen and Kyoto Municipal Subway for a day, ideal for extensive city exploration.
- Arashiyama 1-Day Pass: While not exclusively for the Randen, this pass includes unlimited Randen rides along with other transportation options in the Arashiyama area.
- Kansai Thru Pass: This regional pass can be used on the Randen, offering broader coverage for those exploring the Kansai area.
Additionally, showing your Randen ticket or pass can often secure you discounts at various temples, shrines, and other attractions along the line. These may include reduced entry fees or small gifts at souvenir shops. Always inquire about potential discounts when visiting attractions near Randen stations.
These passes not only offer financial benefits but also simplify your travel experience, allowing you to hop on and off the tram at will and explore western Kyoto at your own pace.
Planning your itinerary using the Keifuku Randen Tram Line
To make the most of your Randen experience, consider the following tips for planning your itinerary:
- Start early: Begin your journey in the morning to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore multiple stops.
- Combine lines: Plan a route that utilizes both the Arashiyama and Kitano lines to maximize your sightseeing.
- Allow for walking: Some attractions, like Ryoanji Temple, require a walk from the nearest station. Factor this into your schedule.
- Consider seasonal highlights: Plan your trip around cherry blossom season for stunning views along the tram route, especially near Ninnaji Temple.
- Use in conjunction with other transport: Combine your Randen journey with Buses in Kyoto or the subway for a comprehensive tour of the city.
A sample itinerary might look like this:
- Start at Shijo Omiya, taking the Arashiyama Line to Uzumasa-Koryuji for a visit to Koryuji Temple and Toei Kyoto Studio Park.
- Continue to Randen Arashiyama to explore Tenryuji Temple and the bamboo grove.
- Return to Katabiranotsuji and transfer to the Kitano Line.
- Visit Ryoanji Temple, then continue to Ninnaji Temple.
- End your day at Kitano Hakubaicho to explore Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and nearby areas.
Remember to check the Randen Map and timetables when planning, and consider purchasing a day pass for maximum flexibility. The Randen offers not just transportation but a unique way to experience Kyoto's western districts, blending historical sightseeing with the charm of riding a historic tram.
For more detailed information on Kyoto's attractions and travel tips, consider referring to Books on Kyoto Japan or visiting the official Randen website at randen.keifuku.co.jp.
