I wonder how many people have been inspired by their model train sets to eventually make a holiday out of one of the great train journeys of the world? How often have youngsters fantasised when playing with their model railway about the train criss crossing the world or moving effortlessly from one country to another?  With one exception, the great train journeys have nothing to do with speed. Even though the plane trip from A to B would be much quicker, the thrill of living on the train for several days is an awesome experience and one that will be talked about for many years to come.

The Trans Siberian Railway, The Orient Express, The Indian Pacific across Australia, The Canadian Pacific Railway, The Marrakesh Express. These names and many more have been immortalised in stories that have become best sellers. For example Agatha Christie’s novel Murder on the Orient Express has sold countless millions of copies; has been made several times into films and has been adapted for radio, for television as well as into a stage play.

These journeys are intended to be a relaxing holiday with all meals provided, first class sleeping accommodation and many stops along the way at places of interest. In every case, the scenery through which the train passes is for most of the journey spectacular. Each journey has its own special features but in all cases nostalgia would be one of the main reasons for most of the passengers interest in the journey.

Of all the great train journeys, the one exception would have to be the Hikari-Express where speed is the most important element. Because of its speed from Tokyo to Kyoto, it has aptly been called “The Bullet Train”. It completes the 1,069 kilometre journey in exactly 5 hours and 47 minutes making it the fastest train running. The technology used ensures a ride so quiet and smooth that a full glass of water remains full for the entire journey and even a cigarette standing on end remains in that position.

Although childhood memories of electric train sets together with nostalgia will ensure that the majority of the original great train journeys will continue to be very popular amongst tourists, the ever increasing pressure of modern life will inevitably mean that faster trains to cover longer distances will become more readily available and accepted.