If every country had high-speed trains like the Japanese Bullet trains (Shinkansen), traveling around places would be significantly easier. The network connects all of the major cities of Japan, with the central network based in Tokyo. These modern trains are not only fast, but they are also safe, comfortable, punctual, and can be cost efficient.
Amazingly, there has yet to be a fatal accident caused from the Bullet trains, even though they run up to 200 miles per hour. These trains are time-savers for travelers because of their high speeds without any waiting, delay, or traffic to deal with. Unlike the subway system in places like New York City, the Shinkansen is a very punctual rail network. The trains usually always arrive and depart on time to the second.
In order for the trains to be cost efficient, travelers should buy the Japan Rail Pass. It costs $280 for seven days of unlimited travel throughout Japan, which is pretty reasonable considering the expense of running these high-tech trains. Without the rail pass, each individual train ride is the price of the pass or more, so it is worth it to buy while traveling through Japan.
There are three different seat classes, Ordinary, Green Car, and Gran Car. The seat classes are similar to that of economy, business, and first class on airplanes. The trains are considered to be relatively comfortable and spacious for all classes of seats. The seats are always forward facing, so that no one has to ride the train going backwards. Also, unlike most other types of trains, these cars are practically silent.
Basically, Japan wins the best train network award in the world!
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
