Japan
Japan has arguably the world's finest rail network - punctual to the second, clean, and spanning the entire country. The Shinkansen bullet train network connects major cities at up to 320 km/h, while local lines serve virtually every corner of the country.
🎫 Tickets & Passes
- JR National and Regional passes are a great value
- Use IC Cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.) for all local public transport
- Book online with JR for the best prices
- Reserved seats recommended on Shinkansen
🚄 Train Types
- Shinkansen - intercity high-speed (Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama)
- Limited Express - regional fast trains
- Local/Rapid - city and rural networks
- Sleeper trains - only Sunrise Seto/Izumo remain
Thailand
Thailand's State Railway (SRT) offers a charming, affordable way to travel the country — from sleeper trains to Chiang Mai, daytime services through lush countryside, and border crossings into Malaysia and Laos.
🎫 Tickets & Booking
- Book via dticket.railway.co.th (English available)
- English timetables and route planners at ThaiTracks.com
- Sleeper berths sell out fast — book 2-3 weeks ahead
- Fares are very affordable vs other transport
- No rail passes - pay per journey
🚂 Key Routes
- Bangkok–Chiang Mai overnight sleeper (12 hrs)
- Bangkok–Hat Yai for south Thailand
- Bangkok–Nong Khai to Laos border
- Eastern Line to Cambodia border
China
China operates the world's largest high-speed rail network with over 45,000 km of track connecting virtually every major city. Foreigners can now book online more easily, and prices are surprisingly affordable for the distances covered.
🎫 Booking as a Foreigner
- Use Trip.com or the 12306 app with a foreign card
- Your passport is your train ticket
- No rail passes - individual tickets only
🚄 Train Classes
- G trains - fastest high-speed (up to 350 km/h)
- D trains - longer intercity routes (up to 250 km/h)
- K - classic long-distance 'fast' trains
- Z - classic long-distance express trains
India
Indian Railways is one of the world's great rail experiences. A sprawling network of over 13,000 stations, legendary long-distance trains, and the unique spectacle of travelling through the subcontinent's vast landscapes. Book early and choose your class wisely.
🎫 Booking Tips
- Book via the offical IRCTC website
- Book 30 days in advance for popular routes
- Foreign Tourist Quota on major trains and routes
- You cannot pre-select specific beds or seats
🚂 Travel Classes
- 1A / 2A / 3A - air-conditioned sleeper classes
- SL (Sleeper) - non-AC, budget option
- CC / EC - chair or executive chair classes on day trains
- Vande Bharat Express - modern semi-highspeed trains
Vietnam
Vietnam's Reunification Express runs the full length of the country from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. A classic multi-day journey through stunning coastal scenery, mountains, and historic towns. One of Asia's great train adventures.
🎫 Booking
- Book via Baolau.com or Vietnam Railways site
- Soft-sleeper berths most comfortable
- Segment booking possible - don't need full route
- Book 2+ weeks ahead for popular segments
🌟 Highlights
- Hai Van Pass - spectacular coastal views
- Da Nang–Hue is the most scenic segment
- SE1/SE2 express trains fastest option
- Night trains save accommodation costs