Getting around Asia
Overland travel in Asia ranges from some of the fastest rail networks in the world to ferries that run when they are full.
Rail
Japan, China, South Korea and Taiwan operate extensive high-speed networks where the train is usually faster than flying once airport time is counted. India has one of the largest conventional networks anywhere. Much of Southeast Asia and Central Asia is served by slower but comfortable overnight services.
Booking windows vary widely — some operators open reservations months ahead, others a few days. Book through the national operator where you can; resellers add a margin and sometimes cannot help when a train is cancelled.
In cities
Most large Asian cities have a metro with English signage and a stored-value card that also works on buses. Ride-hailing is widespread; the dominant app differs by country, and in several places it is a regional app rather than a global one.
Crossing borders overland
Overland border crossings often have different visa rules from airports — some crossings do not issue visas on arrival even where airports do. Cross-border journey pages arrive in Phase 2; until then, check the immigration authority of the country you are entering.