Holidays are a time to unwind, reminisce, and return to the carefree days of childhood, all the while exploring new destinations and making new friends. Add to that a few romantic rail journeys and we’ve got the recipe for the perfect getaway.

With the Japanese Rugby World Cup and Joanna Lumley bursting onto our television screens recently, we’ve been lapping up all things Japan.

Last week, we left Joanna Lumley amidst the bright lights and bustle of Tokyo, Japan’s hyperactive capital. Episode 2 opens with a dramatic reminder of the city’s chaos; vast crowds of people, neon billboards flashing against the dark night skies, and non-stop traffic.

This week on ITV, Joanna Lumley is in the land of the rising sun, Japan, for part 1 of a 3-part adventure through a destination renowned for being as diverse as it is compelling.

From its futuristic bullet trains to spiritual Kyoto and neon-lit Toyko, join Tony Robinson as he discovers the quirks of Japan, on part five of his adventures around the world by train.

We’ve all heard of Lake Erie in Ohio, which by all accounts doesn’t live up to its name whatsoever, being a popular destination for vacationing American families looking to enjoy the water sports and island hopping opportunities this year-round hot spot provides.

You love rail travel but also want to explore further afield than Europe; this is a conundrum many of our customers call us about.

Japan is famous for many things. Some of which are man made - the incredible megacities, filled with life and skyscrapers, the incredibly efficient bullet trains, and a hotel that has been in the same family for over 1,300 years.

If you have mobility issues, travel can be a frustrating experience – yet, it shouldn’t have to be. Travel is for everyone, and in this modernising world, thankfully spaces are opening up to wheelchair users all around the world. We’ve compiled a list of the best destinations for disabled access, for some inspiration for your next hassle-free holiday.

How many of us have wanted to walk straight into the pages of our favourite books? While it might not be possible quite yet to experience the lives of the fictional heroes and heroines we’ve walked side by side through life with for a little while, and sometimes who’d want to (think of just about any character from a Stephen King novel).

The history of the railway is fascinating, stretching from ancient Greece to modern Japan, with many twists and turns along the way.

Read our CEO Peter Liney's account of Classic Japan trip that he took together with his family in July 2015.