Asia Tailor Made Tours | GRJ independent

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.

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