Fine Lines

If

you're planning an Asia-Pacific holiday, flying will save time and taking the bus will save money?but neither afford the comfort of train travel. Make no mistake, there are plenty of hellish rail rides out there. But choose wisely and you'll enjoy decent amenities and smart carriages, to say nothing of the landscapes gliding past. Get a ticket and climb aboard.

TOKYO-HAKATA: Nine bullet trains ply Japan Rail's Nozomi route between Tokyo and Hakata on Kyushu, the country's third-largest island. Nozomi means "hope"?an odd name for a train service, but you won't need to cross your fingers to ensure a smooth journey or punctual arrival. Top speeds of 300 km/h may turn the passing paddy fields into a green blur, but you'll hear few complaints about the aircraft-style seats or the politeness of the conductors. Plan on breakfast in Tokyo and dinner in Hakata, famous for its ramen. See www.japanrail.com.

DARWIN-ADELAIDE: Dust storms, 50?C heat, floods, and having supplies airlifted to stranded trains were all part of traveling aboard the Ghan, Australia's legendary outback train, during the early 20th century. Thankfully, the big skies and red dust are all appreciated from the air-conditioned side of a tinted window these days. Named after the Afghan cameleers who supplied the early desert towns, the weekly Ghan takes two nights to make the 2,979-km haul to Adelaide from Darwin. Choose between seats, budget sleepers or luxury cabins. Read more at www.gsr.com.au.

HANOI TO HO CHI MINH CITY: The Thong Nhat line, once known as the "Reunification Express," arguably serves up Southeast Asia's most luxuriant rural vistas. Four modern trains with air-conditioned double-decker carriages, and free meals to boot, depart Hanoi Station daily, arriving in Ho Chi Minh City 32 hours later. Stopping off in Nha Trang, Da Nang and Hué on your way are all options, but securing onward bookings can be difficult. Visit www.vr.com.vn for details.

BEIJING-LHASA: One of the literal highs of a journey to the Middle Kingdom is the new Qinghai-Tibet railway, making it possible to go from the Chinese capital through to Lhasa. In places, like the Danggula Mountain pass (elevation: 5,072 m), you'll be traveling at altitudes used by commuter jets. If that leaves you breathless, don't worry?compartments are oxygenated, and each passenger has their own oxygen mask. The one-way trip from Beijing takes 48 hours. See www.chinatibettrain.com.