There's something about train travel that continues to capture the imagination, even in the age of budget airlines and high-speed highways. Trains offer a slower shift in scenery, a chance to relax while watching landscapes roll by, and a way to experience the journey as much as the destination. Around the world, certain routes stand out for their speed, scenery, and cultural significance—and according to the BBC, Japan's very own Hokuriku Shinkansen is one of them.
In a recent feature, the BBC highlighted nine of the world's most unforgettable train trips, covering everything from alpine crossings to coastal rides. Among them was the Hokuriku Shinkansen, a relatively new addition to Japan's legendary bullet train network. Known as the "New Golden Route," it connects Tokyo to Tsuruga on the Sea of Japan coast, opening up a different slice of the country for travelers who might otherwise stick to the more familiar Tokyo-to-Kyoto trip on the Tokaido Shinkansen.
The Shinkansen itself is no stranger to global recognition. Turning 60 in 2024, it remains one of Japan's greatest innovations, combining breathtaking speeds of up to 321 kph with famously precise punctuality. Over the decades, the network has expanded to numerous routes that stitch the country together, reshaping the way Japanese people travel and transforming regional economies.
What makes the Hokuriku line stand out is the experience it offers: cutting across mountains and countryside, it's a ride that blends modern engineering with natural beauty. For visitors who are eager to see beyond the classic tourist trail, it's a reminder that Japan's railways aren't just a way to get from A to B, but part of the adventure itself.
