“Natsukashii.” That’s a Japanese word for nostalgia. It comes to mind as we talk about Kyoto Shiden. Kyoto Shiden was the Kyoto City Tram. Few of the millions of tourists know it once boasted the most extensive tram network in Japan.
The Kyoto Municipal Transportation Bureau operated it. The Kyoto City Tram ran until 1978. Operations began in 1895. It was part of an economic revitalization strategy. The first step was building a canal connecting Kyoto to Lake Biwa in 1890. This provided water for Japan’s first commercial hydroelectric plant. This plant powered the new tramway.
By the mid-1960s, 70 km of lines connected major tourist attractions. These included the Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle. Passenger trips reached 210 million in 1965.
In the 1960s, Japan experienced rapid economic growth and urbanization. By 1970, Kyoto’s population had grown. Car ownership nearly tripled. Traffic congestion caused tram delays. This reduced passenger numbers and profitability. The municipality chose to service the growing suburbs with buses. They also developed a subway network.
Shiden was losing passengers and money. In 1978, the mayor decided to close it down. There was intense public opposition. The Shiden Preservation Group argued for better management and an integrated transport strategy. They organized a petition signed by over 200000 citizens to save the trams. They said it would avoid air pollution and become a tourist attraction.
Their pleas fell on deaf ears. The tram system was ripped up. Bus routes spread across the city. Part of disused cars were sold to other cities in Japan. As of 2010, Hiroshima Electric Railway still operated ex-Kyoto tram cars. One of the cars is preserved at Old Pueblo Trolley in Tucson, Arizona.
Today, only two small privately run tram lines remain in the north of Kyoto. In 2006, the Kyoto Municipality looked at plans for light rail transit routes. Public surveys revealed opposition to a new light rail system. Few people in Kyoto recall the affection for Shiden.
The Keifuku Randen Tram Line is the last remaining tram line in Kyoto. It offers a charming way to explore the western parts of the city. It runs at street level. It provides passengers with a more intimate view of Kyoto’s neighborhoods.
The Randen has two main lines. The Arashiyama Line runs from Shijo Omiya to Randen Arashiyama. The Kitano Line connects Kitano Hakubaicho to Katabiranotsuji Station. A flat fare applies. Passengers can also buy a day pass for unlimited rides.
Major stations include Shijo Omiya and Randen Arashiyama. Popular attractions are accessible via the Randen. These include Tenryuji Temple and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.
The Randen offers not just transportation but scenic views along the way. Especially beautiful is the cherry blossom season. The Randen is a unique way to experience Kyoto. It blends historical sightseeing with the charm of riding a historic tram.