Train-ing In Japan

Train-ing in Japan is back for another season! To kick things off, I’m taking a deep dive into one of Japan’s most iconic and culturally rich regions – Kansai. Join me as I explore its geography, cultural importance, and of course, its legendary railway network. As always, I include some of my travel recommendations, like the sacred Kumano Kodo trails and the beautiful Lake Biwako area! Got any fe...

For the final episode of season 2, Train-ing In Japan hosts its first listener Q&A!  From the best apps to rail passes and specialty trains, I answer all the questions that you sent in.  Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

Join me as I explore Japan's unique third-sector railway model. Discover how these unique public-private partnerships keep rail services running in rural areas of the country, with key operators like the Iwate Galaxy Railway and Shinano Railway.  Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork...

Following on from the Chubu Region, I take a look at some of the unique rural railway companies that are operating in the area, including their history, main lines and even some of their rolling stock!  As always, I include some of my travel recommendations, such as Unazuki Onsen in Toyama prefecture! Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook...

With the Kanto and Tohoku regions covered, it is time to move on to the next major region in Japan and one of the country's most geographically diverse - Chubu.  As always, I give travel recommendations within the Chubu region, including Takayama, Toyama and Nagano! Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-...

With the move into the Nagoya metropolitan region, I take a look at Meitetsu, one of Nagoya's most important railway operators, and the third oldest private rail company in Japan. Plus, get travel tips for must-visit destinations along the Meitetsu network! Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Ja...

On this episode, I dive into Doctor Yellow, the iconic diagnostic train of the Shinkansen network. With its retirement slated for 2027, I explore the rich history, technology, and cultural significance of this bright yellow guardian of Japan's high-speed rail! Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In...

Join me as we finally move away from JR East territory to explore another one of the Japan Railways Group - JR Central! I'll go over its history and key routes like the Tokaido Shinkansen, as well as some of its future projects. As always, I'll be recommending some locations for you to visit by taking JR Central's network! Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do...

A small follow-up to the Tohoku region, I go over the Mini-Shinkansen, Japan's unique form of high-speed rail, and its two routes - Yamagata and Akita. As always, I also give some recommended locations you can visit by taking the Mini-Shinkansen! Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork...

Discover the beauty and rich culture of Japan's Tohoku Region, from rugged coastlines to vibrant festivals, and explore the remote landscapes that make this region a must-visit destination. Whether you're a Japan travel veteran or planning your next journey, this episode offers insights for exploring the wonders of the Tohoku Region. Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free...

Delve into Japan's intricacies of rail, road, and air travel! From the efficiency of the Shinkansen to the flexibility of driving and the convenience of flying, discover which mode of transportation best suits your travel needs. With insights into speed, cost, convenience, and accessibility, this episode offers valuable guidance for your next adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun! Got any f...

Embark on a scenic journey through Japan's Kanto region on this episode of Train-ing In Japan! Discover breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems along six captivating railway routes. From the majestic mountains of Nikko to the coastal charm of the Boso Peninsula, each train ride offers a unique perspective on this diverse region. Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so...

Join me on this Sakura-themed episode as I delve into the Japanese tradition of ohanami and explore recommended cherry blossom viewing locations in Tokyo and beyond. Plus, learn about the exciting extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen and its impact on travel in Japan! Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing...

In this special episode of Train-ing In Japan, I sit down with a former JR East employee. Get an insider's look at life in one of Japan's largest railway companies, from handling daily operations to managing unexpected challenges. Discover the untold stories behind the efficiency of Japan's rail system, and learn how they respond to delays, accidents, and natural disasters. All aboa...

In this episode, I explore the labyrinth of Japan's JR Rail Passes. Discover the benefits, pricing, and tips on selecting the perfect pass for your travels. Plus, I highlight a couple of must-visit destinations in the Tohoku region. All aboard! Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork d...

I go over the history of Japan's railway crown jewel - the Shinkansen! Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

I go over the countryside in Japan, including what the trains are like in these parts, and what travelling here is like. Plus, I also delve into the geography of Japan!  Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

The fourth and final part in a breakdown of some of the biggest private railways in the Tokyo region. I discuss Tobu, one of Japan's largest and oldest railway operators, and uncover it's history along the way. Plus some more great travel locations! Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan...

The third part in a four-part breakdown of some of the biggest private railways in the Tokyo region. I go over the history of the Keio Corporation, the link between central and west Tokyo, as well  Seibu railways, one of the more unique operators in the Kanto region. Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing...

The second part in a four-part breakdown of some of the biggest private railways in the Tokyo region.  I go over the Odakyu corporation, the gateway to Hakone, and the Tokyu corporation, one of big hitters in the Tokyo rail industry. Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Bri...

The first part in a four-part breakdown of some of the biggest private railways in the Tokyo region, I go over both Keikyu and Keisei, their history, and some wonderful places these lines can take you to!  Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

On this episode, I discuss the history of JR East, Japan's largest railway company, and delve into some areas you should visit!   Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

On the debut episode of Train-ing In Japan , I discuss how to get around Tokyo using it's vast subway network, and recommend some places that you should check out while you're here.  Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

Get a sneak peek at what the Train-ing In Japan podcast is all about! Got any feedback or want to leave a comment? Feel free to do so here! Follow the show on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham