Book Reviews - Japan by Rail (2nd Edition)

Author Ramsey Zarifeh
Published by Trailblazer in 2007

As a regular rail commuter into Birmingham (UK) I fondly recollect the days spent riding the rails in some far flung land where the staff are customer focused, the trains clean and punctual and where rail travel is something to enjoy. Unlikely in the UK but an everyday experience in Japan.

All visitors to Japan should ride the trains. They are fast, punctual and take you just about everywhere there is to go. However there is a problem. For most visitors understanding how the Japanese railway system works is probably too daunting a task as there are many railway companies and there is the lack of English information.

However don't despair as Trailblazer have an excellent guide covering train travel in Japan. The book provides an overall summary of the railway system together with some suggested itineraries and loads of detail on fares, routes and anything else that might be considered useful information for rail travellers in Japan. The information is succinct, easy to read, relevant and accurate. It is structured in such a way that makes information retrieval easy.

Prior to the start of your trip spend a few hours reading this book. The information on fares will save you plenty of money and the suggested itineraries will provide a basis on which to build your own customised tour. On arrival in japan make sure this is near the top of your pack as its value in country is just as important providing as it provides detailed information relevant to your journey.

Reviewed 23rd March 2008 by Lou Johnson