A small station in a scenic place, Kangetsukyo station offers serene walking trails and stunning views of the Uji River and Yodogawa Bridge.
Located in Kyoto’s Fushimi ward, Kangetsukyo station is a small and rather insignificant stop that only the locals typically disembark at.
Nevertheless, it’s easily the most scenic train station I’ve ever seen, albeit because of its proximity to the Uji River and all of its surrounding beauty.
Stunning Station Views
The views from the platform alone are quite breathtaking, as you wouldn’t believe the photo above was taken through the window glass of Kangetsukyo station!
The lush green fields are reminiscent of farmlands and the mountains in the distance truly brighten up the background with its bright blue fluorescence.
Riding Through Rice Fields
Whether you’re departing from, arriving at, or just passing through Kangetsukyo station, you’ll be blown away by the scenery from the train windows.
Indeed, even on a local train, you can enjoy views that most have to buy a Shinkansen bullet train ticket for!
These rice fields extend all the way through to Kyoto’s city of Uji, known widely as the “green tea capital” of Japan and, quite frankly, the world.
The Majestic Uji River
The Uji River extends long and far through south Kyoto and into Osaka, where it transforms into the Yodogawa River.
Perhaps the most beautiful portion of the Uji River that I’ve seen to date is the overpass view just outside Kangetsukyo station.
On a clear day, it’s truly magnificent the way all the colors stand out and contrast with each other, particularly as the mountains in the distance become more visible.
Amazing Walking Paths
It’s amazing what kind of hidden gems you can find in Japan if you just explore a little. Just behind Kangetsukyo station is an amazing walking path by the river!
From the river to the mountains, you can enjoy picture-perfect views. Furthermore, you get to see brilliant cherry blossoms bloom here during the spring!
The Yodogawa Bridge
Kangetsukyo station is also the best spot to see the Yodogawa Bridge, one of the iconic landmarks of Mukaijima.
A rather mechanical bridge indeed, it certainly gives off a unique presence that is reminiscent of industrial towns of the 20th Century.
The best time to see the Yodogawa Bridge is around sunset when the lights brilliantly reflect against the water and lit-up trains pass through the bridge for a mesmerizing effect.
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!
