Trains
Train travel is often the most relaxing way to cover distance: city centre to city centre, with room to move, no airport security and views on the way. In Europe and Japan especially, a train can be as quick as flying once you count getting to and through the airport.
Before booking, compare point-to-point tickets with rail passes. A pass suits many journeys over a set period, but some trains need a seat reservation on top, and cheap advance tickets for a few long journeys can cost less than a pass. Book high-speed and overnight trains early, because the cheapest fares and sleeper berths sell out, and check whether buying directly from the national rail operator is cheaper.
For planning, The Man in Seat 61's train travel guides explain routes, tickets and how to book in countries worldwide, and are the best place to start. To buy tickets and passes for several European countries in one place, Rail Europe sells both, adding a booking fee.
For Japan, the Japan Rail Pass covers travel on the JR network for foreign tourists; check the eligibility rules and whether your itinerary makes the pass worthwhile before buying. For sea crossings on the way, see Ferries.
