Mighty Trains

Japan's Shinkansen is a high-speed legend, a 177 MPH bullet train that has powered the country's economy and thrilled fans for over half a century. Keeping it fast, efficient, and safe is a top priority, but operating through rough terrain and bad weather across one of the most earthquake-prone places on Earth is a major challenge. Join us as we take a 320-mile journey from Tokyo to Osaka aboard this technological marvel, making pit stops along the way to uncover the secrets of the world's busiest high-speed train.

The Ghan takes passengers on a three-day, two-night journey across Australia, from Adelaide in the south through the country's "red center" to Darwin in the tropical Top End. This train offers an unforgettable 1,865-mile adventure for foreigners and Aussies alike, but there is no end to the challenges it faces while charging through rough, raw, and remote areas. See how the Ghan and her dedicated crew keep its guests pampered and entertained while readying itself against floods, brush fires, and the sheer vastness of the Outback.

KiwiRail’s scenic journeys through New Zealand may appear serene to passengers, but to the conductors and engineers who keep these tour trains running, it takes hard work and nerves of steel. Embark on two odysseys through the country’s northern and southern islands, past treacherous fault lines, active volcanoes, and dizzying heights. Visit epic landscapes, including “Hobbiton”, home to the “Lord of the Rings” and “Hobbit” movies, as well as the site of the most devastating rail disaster in New Zealand’s history.

Embark on a South American adventure across punishing terrain and up the Northern Andes. This three-day expedition aboard Ecuador’s Tren Crucero travels from the Pacific city of Guayaquil to the capital city of Quito and through such treacherous landmarks as the Avenue of the Volcanoes and the Devil’s Nose. See what it takes to keep this luxury railway train running through dense jungles, busy cities, and multiple climate zones.

One train. One driver. 3,000 tons of timber a day. Timber hauling is big business for Sweden’s economy, and it takes a mighty train and some strong-willed men and women to pull it off. Hop aboard the Hector Rail’s new fleet of high-capacity wagons as it transports massive payloads of timber to a state-of-the-art pulp mill. From slippery tracks and steep hills to wild animals and winding tunnels, drivers face plenty of challenges on their 12-hour journey.

The Rocky Mountaineer takes passengers on a spectacular two-day journey into the heart of the Rocky Mountains. As guests travel through untamed wilderness across British Columbia, into Alberta, and back again, they’re treated to panorama vistas and gourmet cuisine from the train’s award-winning executive chef. With tickets costing up to $2,500, the pressure is on for all 76 staff members—as well as maintenance teams working behind the scenes—to give passengers a five-star rail experience.