Train journeys offer more than just transportation as they invite you to relax and soak in the scenery, providing glimpses into local life that you can’t experience by air or road.
If you’re seeking a memorable adventure across Asia that won’t stretch your budget, here are 5 captivating train rides that are each under S$140.
#1: JAKARTA TO SURABAYA (INDONESIA)
Embark on a picturesque journey from Jakarta to Surabaya, a route stretching over 700 kilometers. This scenic 8-9 hour train ride costs around S$70–S$90 (approximately IDR 760,000), making it an affordable way to see the rich diversity of Indonesia’s landscapes. You’ll pass lush rice paddies, traditional villages, and imposing volcanic mountains, offering a true glimpse into the country’s natural beauty and local culture.
#2: MAGICAL JOURNEY SHINKANSEN (JAPAN)
Inspired by Tokyo DisneySea’s Fantasy Springs, the Magical Journey Shinkansen is a dream ride for Disney lovers. Operating between Tokyo and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, this themed bullet train features iconic characters and designs from Disney classics like Frozen, Tangled, and Peter Pan. For an enchanting Disney-inspired journey that blends fantasy and speed, this unique train ride is a magical experience for travelers of all ages.
The ticket prices align with regular Shinkansen fares, which typically range from S$110 to S$130 (about ¥11,000–¥12,000) for a one-way trip between Tokyo and Sendai. Plan ahead, as demand for these tickets is high.
#3: MUONG HOA MOUNTAINOUS TRAIN (VIETNAM)
For just S$11 (around 200,000 VND), this scenic train ride in Vietnam is an unbeatable bargain. The Muong Hoa Mountainous Train takes you through the rolling hills of Sapa, leading to the cable car station for Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina.
Image Credits: vietnamstay.com
Along the way, you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning terraced rice fields, mist-shrouded valleys, and dramatic mountain views. It’s a short yet scenic trip that offers a peaceful escape into northern Vietnam’s rural beauty.
#4: MAEKLONG RAILWAY MARKET (THAILAND)
While not a traditional long-distance journey, the Maeklong Railway Market in Thailand offers a one-of-a-kind train experience. Known as the “umbrella pull-down market,” vendors line the tracks with their goods, quickly retracting their umbrellas and stalls as the train passes through for several times a day.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
Though this is a short local ride, experiencing it costs only a few dollars (around S$2 to S$3), making it both affordable and unforgettable. Be sure to sample local delicacies at the market, where dishes like pad Thai and fresh seafood cost between S$3 to S$10.
#5: ALISHAN FOREST RAILWAY (TAIWAN)
The Alishan Forest Railway offers a captivating experience through Taiwan’s Alishan mountain range. A one-way ticket from Chiayi Station to Alishan is priced at approximately S$17 (around TWD 384). Shorter trips, such as the Zhaoping and Zhushan Lines, cost between S$6 and S$11 (about TWD 150 to 240), offering scenic rides to view the iconic Alishan sunrise and explore local sights.
IN A NUTSHELL
Whether you’re riding a Disney-themed Shinkansen in Japan, traversing Indonesia’s cultural landscape, or gliding through Vietnam’s serene rice terraces, these journeys show that some of the best travel experiences don’t need to come with a hefty price tag.
Image Credits: taiwaneverything.cc
Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure in some of Asia’s most captivating destinations from the comfort of a train.