If you are planning a trip to Asia, it is important to know about the various train journeys in Asia. Here are some of the most unusual train experiences. These railways pass through tropical forests, colonial-era bridges, vast deserts, high mountain plateaus and dramatic coastlines. Some focus on train luxury and elegance, while others highlight the landscapes and cultural immersion along the way. Together, they represent the diversity, beauty and engineering brilliance of Asian train journeys.
Here is a closer look at ten of the most remarkable train journeys across the continent.
10. Bamboo Train – Cambodia
In Battambang, the Bamboo Train offers one of Asia’s most unusual rail experiences. Small motorized bamboo platforms run along traditional railway tracks, originally created by locals for practical transportation.
The ride passes rice fields and rural landscapes, offering a glimpse into Cambodian countryside life. Though simple, it is memorable and culturally unique.
9. The Vietage – Vietnam
The Vietage is a boutique rail service offering a premium experience between Da Nang and Quy Nhon. With only a small number of seats, the train provides personalized service, gourmet dining, and even spa-style treatments onboard.
The route travels along Vietnam’s central coastline, combining sea views with countryside scenery.
It blends modern comfort with relaxed travel.
8. Jungle Railway – Malaysia
The Jungle Railway, officially Malaysia’s East Coast Line, runs through dense rainforest, rural villages, and river crossings. Unlike luxury services, this train provides a raw and authentic experience of Malaysia’s interior.
Passengers see traditional wooden houses, palm plantations, and untouched landscapes rarely visible to tourists.
It is a journey of nature and simplicity.
7. Tokaido Shinkansen – Japan
Connecting Tokyo and Kyoto, the Tokaido Shinkansen is one of the world’s busiest high-speed rail lines. Operating since 1964, it symbolized Japan’s technological rebirth after World War II.
Though designed for speed rather than leisure, the train offers impressive views of Mount Fuji on clear days. The smooth ride, punctuality, and modern design make it a remarkable engineering achievement.
6. Maharajas’ Express – India
Often described as a palace on wheels, the Maharajas’ Express offers ultra-luxury journeys across India. The train features opulent interiors inspired by royal palaces, complete with fine dining restaurants and personal butler service.
Routes include destinations such as Agra (home of the Taj Mahal), Rajasthan’s desert cities, and ancient temples. The experience combines cultural heritage with five-star comfort.
It consistently ranks among the world’s top luxury trains.
5. Qinghai-Tibet Railway – China
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is an engineering marvel and the world’s highest railway. Stretching from mainland China to Lhasa in Tibet, it reaches altitudes above 5,000 meters.
Passengers travel across vast plateaus, frozen lakes, and snow-covered mountains. Because of the extreme elevation, trains are equipped with oxygen systems to ensure passenger comfort.
The journey provides rare access to one of the most remote and spiritually significant regions in Asia.
4. Eastern & Oriental Express – Singapore, Malaysia & Thailand
Inspired by the golden age of rail travel, the Eastern & Oriental Express combines colonial charm with modern luxury. The train travels through Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, passing rice fields, rivers, rainforests, and historic towns.
With polished wood interiors, fine dining, and observation carriages, the experience is elegant and nostalgic. Guests enjoy gourmet meals while watching tropical landscapes drift by slowly.
It represents refined travel in Southeast Asia.
3. Reunification Express – Vietnam
Stretching over 1,700 kilometers from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, the Reunification Express connects Vietnam from north to south. The railway was originally built during French colonial rule and later became a symbol of national unity after the Vietnam War.
The most scenic stretch lies between Hue and Da Nang, where the train crosses the Hai Van Pass. Here, passengers enjoy sweeping ocean views on one side and lush mountains on the other. One of Southeast Asia’s most dramatic coastal rail sections.
The journey offers both history and breathtaking landscapes in one continuous ride.
2. Seven Stars in Kyushu – Japan
Another unique train experience in Asia is the Seven Stars in Kyushu, launched in 2013. This is Japan’s first luxury sleeper train experience. What makes it unique is its limited number of cabins and handcrafted interiors made from local wood. The train reflects Japanese elegance and culture.
The route circles the island of Kyushu, showcasing volcanic landscapes, coastal scenery, hot spring towns, and traditional villages. On-board dining highlights seasonal Japanese cuisine, while off-board excursions allow guests to experience local culture and craftsmanship.
It’s not just transportation – it’s a carefully curated cultural journey.
1. Ella Odyssey – Sri Lanka
The Ella Odyssey is a beautiful journey that tourists come to Sri Lanka for the experience. The Ella Odyssey operates along this famous mountain railway between Kandy and Ella, which was built in the late 19th century to transport tea during the British colonial era. Today, it is considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.
The train gradually moves from a warm climate to a cold climate. A passenger traveling from the beginning to the end of the journey can experience both these different climates in one journey. Gradually, it passes emerald tea plantations, mist-shrouded mountains, waterfalls, tunnels carved through rocks and small hillside villages. The most notable highlight is the crossing of the historic Nine Arch Bridge. This is a tourist’s photo paradise. Unlike regular trains, the Ella Odyssey slows down at key scenic spots, giving passengers time to take photos and appreciate the scenery. The journey offers not only the scenery, but also a peaceful, immersive slow-motion travel experience.
