The Kansai Region

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 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

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 done by Simon Brigham

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, Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

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-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

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 Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

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 Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

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 so here!Follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham

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 done by Simon Brigham

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 to do so here!Follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Train-ing In Japan artwork done by Simon Brigham