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Asia
View details of the independent rail holidays available in Asia. Choose from our itineraries in China, India, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand.
The best of Asia
Encompassing landscapes as diverse as the snowy wastelands of Siberia and the humid rainforests of Cambodia, Asia is endlessly contrasting, fascinating and beautiful. Whichever region of this great continent you choose to explore, an independent rail holiday promises to be unforgettable. Visit Xi'an in China and marvel at the Terracotta Warriors, immerse yourself in Japan's exquisite culture or behold the tranquil beauty of Mongolia.
Benefits of rail
Asia is blessed with some of the most remarkable and iconic railways, each testimony to man's towering achievements in the fields of railway engineering and transport. The trains that grace these railways are often as distinctive and memorable as the railways themselves. From the record-breaking Trans- Siberian railway to the Vietnam's overnight sleeper, the Reunification Express, there's a wealth or rail experiences to embark on.
Asia by rail
The wide-ranging continent of Asia is awash with unforgettable rail experiences. Singapore's famous Eastern and Oriental Express, an iconic train that travels between Bangkok and Singapore over the course of a few days. Stopping at famous landmarks such as the River Kwai and Penang, passengers stay overnight on board the train, journeying through Singapore in cosy cabins with breakfast delivered to them each morning.
The Shinkansen - Japan's Bullet Train
Shinkansen refers to the dedicated high-speed Japanese rail network that provides a link to most major cities on the islands of Honshu and Kyushu. The name 'Shinkansen' is also used to refer to the trains that run on the network - which are perhaps better known as 'Bullet Trains'. Renowned for their punctuality, comfort and safety, the trains are frequent and fast, regularly running at speeds of up to 186mph (300km/h). The trains offer comfortable reclining seats and large windows and there are usually refreshment trolleys selling snacks and beverages.
Journeys aboard these futuristic trains deliver you to cities and rural escapes across this island nation, with highlights including;
Tokyo
Effortlessly blending the old and the new, Tokyo is a city that defies definition. Cutting edge technology sits alongside ancient temples, flashing neon lights, and shining skyscrapers towering above stunning Shinto shrines.
Hakone
Lying in the foothills of Mount Fuji, Hakone is a stunning area of lakes, forests and hot springs. Take a cable car to the sulphurous hot springs at Owakudani, then descend to Lake Ashi for a short cruise.
Hiroshima
Having seen devastation in World War II, Hiroshima is now a symbol of peace, a theme you can explore with a visit to Peace Memorial Park and the A-Bomb Dome, both dedicated to the victims of the tragic devastation of WWII.
Kyoto
Discover the delights of historic Kyoto, from the UNESCO-listed Nijo Castle to the charming temples Kyoto is famed for. You could even participate in traditional tea ceremony at the Kodaiji Temple.
Nara
Another former capital from Japan's fractured ancient history, and home to an impressive 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, Nara is also known for it's 1,300 acre deer park.
Suggested Asia Itineraries
The Itineraries shown are intended to give an overview of what is possible and are by no means the only options available, designed to offer an idea of all the places you could visit and give you an overview of each destination. We arrange holidays to suit all tastes and budgets, so you can pick and choose from below or come up with something completely unique.
Call our Tailor-Made Holiday Specialists on
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