Transportation

Japan Rail Pass

I started in Fukuoka and traveled to:

Hiroshima (via Shinkansen)
Nagoya (via Shinkansen)
Tokyo (via Shinkansen)
Hakodate (via Shinkansen and Limited Express trains)
Sapporo (via Limited Express train)

With the 7-day Japan Rail Pass, you can take JR long-distance trains, including Shinkansen (except NOZOMI and MIZUHO trains). The pass covers your travel between these cities.

Here’s a rough breakdown of my train journeys:

Fukuoka to Hiroshima: San’yō Shinkansen
Hiroshima to Nagoya: San’yō Shinkansen and Tokaido Shinkansen
Nagoya to Tokyo: Tokaido Shinkansen
Tokyo to Hakodate: Tohoku Shinkansen and Hokkaido Shinkansen (with possible transfer in Shin-Aomori or other stations)
Hakodate to Sapporo: Limited Express train (e.g., Hokuto or Super Hokuto)

The pass allows you to reserve seats on Shinkansen trains for free. Make sure to validate your pass at a JR East Travel Service center or a major train station before starting your journey.

The Japan Rail Pass information is valid for 2025, with some updates on pricing and policies. Here’s what’s current ¹ ²:

Prices: The 7-day Ordinary JR Pass costs 50,000 yen (approximately 266 GBP), while the 7-day Green JR Pass costs 70,000 yen (approximately 373 GBP).
Purchasing: The pass must be bought in advance, either online or through a travel agent, and can be picked up at a JR-designated ticket office in Japan:** You can choose to start your pass on any day within a one-month period from the date of purchase.
Coverage: The pass covers most JR trains, including Shinkansen (except Nozomi and Mizuho trains), local JR trains, and some buses and ferries. Seat reservations are free for pass holders on most trains.
Validity: The pass is valid for consecutive days, starting from the chosen start date, and expires at midnight on the last day.

Keep in mind that prices may fluctuate, and it’s essential to check the official Japan Rail Pass website or authorized sellers for the latest information. Some sources suggest prices might increase again in the future, potentially around 2030.

Taiwan Rail Pass

I traveled from Taipei to:

Taichung (via Taiwan High Speed Rail)
Tainan (via Taiwan High Speed Rail)
Kaohsiung (via Taiwan High Speed Rail)
Taitung (via Taiwan Railway, likely the Tzu-Chiang Limited Express or the Puyuma Express)

The 5-Day Standard Joint Pass or 5-Day Premium Joint Pass would cover your travels on:

Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) for any 2 days within the 5-day period
Taiwan Railway for 5 days, depending on the pass type (Standard or Premium)

For your route:

Taipei to Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung: THSR trains are covered for 2 out of the 5 days.
Kaohsiung to Taitung: Taiwan Railway’s South-Link Line would be used, likely on a Tzu-Chiang Limited Express or Puyuma Express train. Depending on the train type, either the Standard or Premium pass would cover this journey.
Taitung to Taipei: You might take the Tzu-Chiang Limited Express or other trains, which would be covered by the pass, depending on the train type and pass chosen.

When using the pass, you can reserve seats on THSR trains and some Taiwan Railway trains for free. Make sure to plan your itinerary according to the pass’s terms and conditions.

Given your route, the Premium Joint Pass might be more suitable, as it covers Tzu-Chiang Limited Express trains, which you might take for the Kaohsiung to Taitung leg. However, the Standard Joint Pass could work if you take lower-priced trains for certain segments.

The Taiwan Rail Pass is still valid in 2025. Here’s what’s current:

5-Day Standard Joint Pass: This pass costs NT$2,800 (approximately $85 USD or 65 GBP) for adults and NT$1,400 (approximately $42 USD or 33 GBP) for children. It offers unlimited rides on Taiwan Railway’s Chu-Kuang Express or lower-priced trains for 5 days and on Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) trains for any 2 days within the designated 5-day period.
5-Day Premium Joint Pass: This pass costs NT$3,600 (approximately $110 USD or 85 GBP) for adults and NT$1,800 (approximately $55 USD or 43 GBP) for children. It offers unlimited rides on Taiwan Railway’s Tze-Chiang Limited Express or higher-priced trains for 5 days and on THSR trains for any 2 days within the designated 5-day period.

Both passes have the following conditions ¹:

Validity Period: The pass is valid for 5 consecutive days, with the option to take THSR trains on any 2 days within that period.
Seat Reservations: Pass holders can reserve seats on THSR trains and some Taiwan Railway trains for free.
Eligibility: Only short-term entry foreign visitors are eligible for these passes.

Make sure to check the official Taiwan High Speed Rail website for the latest information and to plan your trip according to the pass’s terms and conditions.

Haramain High-Speed Rail

Your journey on the Haramain High-Speed Rail from Medina to Jeddah was truly convenient and pleasant. The train stations, designed by Foster + Partners, boast beautiful interior designs that provide a shaded retreat from the sun. Here are some highlights of your experience:

Station Design: The stations feature a modular approach with consistent design elements throughout, including steel columns and arches that form freestanding structural trees. The vaulted roof and walls contain small openings that draw beams of daylight down to the concourse level, creating a calm and well-lit environment.
Unique Color Schemes: Each station has a distinct color scheme, reflecting the identity of its city. For example, Medina Station features a vivid green color inspired by the Mosque of the Prophet, while Makkah Station references the gold leaf of the decorated Kab’ah.
Friendly Staff: The staff at the train stations are known for being friendly and helpful, ensuring a smooth travel experience.
Dining Options: You’ll find coffee shops and other dining options within the stations, offering a range of refreshments to suit your taste.
Seamless Connections: The stations provide seamless connections to other intracity transport networks, including the Jeddah Metro, making it easy to get to your destination.
Passenger Comfort: The stations are designed to prioritize passenger comfort, with climate-controlled concourse spaces and large fans and misting devices on the platforms to keep the area cool ¹ ².

Overall, your experience on the Haramain High-Speed Rail was likely marked by comfort, convenience, and a touch of elegance, thanks to the beautiful design of the train stations and the friendly staff.

The Haramain High-Speed Railway is a 450-kilometer train network connecting major cities in Saudi Arabia, including Makkah, Medina, Jeddah, and King Abdullah Economic City. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Features:

Speed: Trains operate at speeds of up to 300 kilometers per hour, reducing travel times between cities.
Classes: Two main classes are available – Economy and Business. Economy Class offers comfortable for most passengers, while Business Class provides more luxurious seating, complimentary meals, and drinks.
Amenities: Trains are equipped with air-conditioned cars, cafeteria coaches, and snack trolleys. Stations feature modern architecture, natural ventilation, and intuitive wayfinding systems.
Routes: The railway connects Makkah, Medina, Jeddah, and King Abdullah Economic City, with stations at King Abdulaziz International Airport and Jeddah’s Sulimaniyah area.

Your Experience:

You traveled from Medina to Jeddah and had a convenient and pleasant journey. Based on the Haramain High-Speed Railway’s features, you likely enjoyed a smooth and comfortable ride with access to onboard amenities.

Ticket Prices:

Makkah to Medina: Economy Class starts at $23 (SAR 86.25), Business Class starts at $40.50 (SAR 152.38)
Jeddah to Makkah: Economy Class starts at $9.80 (SAR 34.50), Business Class starts at $14.60 (SAR 54.63)
Medina to Jeddah: Prices vary depending on the time of booking and class

Booking and Travel Tips:

Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons like Hajj and Umrah.
Arrive at least 2 hours before departure for baggage check-in and security screening.
Boarding gates close 10 minutes before departure.
Ensure you have valid identification and a ticket for your entire journey

Ikarus Marine Ferry

As I boarded the Ikarus Marine Ferry in Kuwait City, I felt a sense of excitement for my journey to Failaka Island. The ferry ride took approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the sea conditions and the type of ferry. During the journey, I enjoyed the scenic views of the Arabian Gulf and the island’s coastline.

Practical Information:

Departure Point: The ferry departs from Kuwait City’s Doha Port or other designated ports.
Ferry Schedule: The ferry schedule varies depending on the season and demand. It’s best to check with the ferry operator or a local ticketing agency for the latest schedule and prices.
Ticket Prices: Ticket prices vary depending on the class of service and availability. You can expect to pay around 5-10 KWD (approximately 13-26 GBP) for a one-way ticket.
Onboard Amenities: The ferry is equipped with basic amenities, including seating areas, restrooms, and possibly snack bars or cafes.
Failaka Island: Once you arrive on Failaka Island, you can explore the island’s historical sites, beaches, and natural attractions.

Tips:

Book in Advance: It’s recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season or holidays.
Check the Weather: Always check the weather forecast before your journey and be prepared for any changes in sea conditions.
Arrive Early: Arrive at the port early to secure your spot and complete any necessary formalities.

My journey on the Ikarus Marine Ferry was a pleasant and convenient way to reach Failaka Island, offering a unique experience and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

Chinese Trains

In 2017, I took the overnight train Z98 from Hung Hom Station in Kowloon, Hong Kong, to Beijing West Station. This journey covered approximately 2,475 km and took around 24 hours and 15 minutes. The train had hard sleeper and soft sleeper options, with fares ranging from HK$574 to HK$601 for hard sleepers and HK$934 to HK$1,191 for soft sleepers.

Changes Since 2017

Since 2017, a high-speed rail link has been introduced, significantly reducing travel time. The new service ²:

Covers Distance: 2,441 km
Takes: 8 hours and 10 minutes
Reaches Speeds: Up to 350 km/h

Current Train Options

You now have two main options for traveling from Hong Kong to Beijing by train:

High-Speed Train: This train runs daily from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station to Beijing West Station, with multiple stops along the way. You can enjoy scenic views, onboard amenities like food and beverage services, and Wi-Fi (with some limitations).
Overnight Sleeper Train: Although less frequent than high-speed trains, overnight sleeper trains are still available, offering a more leisurely journey with sleeping accommodations.

Practical Information

When traveling by high-speed train, consider the following:

Station Arrival: Reach Hong Kong West Kowloon Station at least 45 minutes before departure for border formalities.
Border Formalities: These take place at Hong Kong West Kowloon Station before boarding and at Beijing West Station after arrival.
Luggage: Bags are X-rayed before entering the station and during departures.
Food and Drink: You can bring your own or purchase from the onboard buffet counter.
Power and Wi-Fi: Power sockets are available at all seats, but Wi-Fi may require a Chinese mobile phone number for access.

Ticketing

You can purchase tickets through ²:

China Highlights: A reliable agency offering e-tickets for various classes, including business class.
12go.asia: Another agency providing instant confirmation and e-tickets for 1st and 2nd class.
Klook: A well-known online agency offering instant confirmation and e-tickets for 1st, 2nd class, or business class.
MTR High-Speed Rail Website: Book tickets online through the MTR system.

Fare Information

Fares vary depending on the class and type of train. For high-speed trains, you can expect to pay different fares for business, first, and second class. Children under 6 travel for free (one per adult), while children under 14 receive a 50% discount.

Beijing – Shanghai Bullet high speed train

Taking the bullet train from Beijing to Shanghai is still a convenient and comfortable way to travel. Here’s what you need to know:

Train Options

High-Speed Trains: The fastest trains, like G1 and G7, take around 4 hours and 18 minutes to 4 hours and 29 minutes, reaching speeds of up to 380 km/h.
Sleeper Trains: If you prefer to travel overnight, D-series trains take around 12 hours, offering hard and soft sleeper options.

Train Stations

Beijing Stations: Trains typically depart from Beijing South Railway Station, but some may depart from Beijing Railway Station.
Shanghai Stations: Trains usually arrive at Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station or Shanghai Railway Station ¹ ².

Ticket Prices

Second-Class Seats: Around $90-$100 USD
First-Class Seats: Around $149 USD
Business-Class Seats: Around $276 USD
Sleeper Tickets: Hard sleeper tickets cost around $292 USD, while soft sleeper tickets cost around $437-$554 USD ¹ ².

Booking Tickets

You can book tickets online through platforms like China Train Booking or The Man in Seat 61. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially for popular trains like G-series trains ² ³.

Changes Since 2017

Increased Frequency: More high-speed trains run daily, with at least two trains available each hour.
Improved Speed: Some trains now reach speeds of up to 390 km/h.
Enhanced Amenities: Trains offer better food and beverage services, and some have Wi-Fi connectivity.

Speed

The train traveled at speeds of up to 380 km/h, covering the approximately 1,318 km distance in around 4 hours and 18 minutes. This allowed you to zip through the Chinese countryside, watching the landscape blur by in a mesmerizing display of speed and efficiency.

Food and Drinks

Onboard, you had several options to satisfy your cravings:

Dining Car: Located in the 5th or 13th carriage, depending on the train’s configuration, the dining car offered Chinese-style dishes, with prices ranging from 15 to 65 yuan. You could enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with options like porridge, steamed buns, and various meat dishes.
Food Trolleys: Attendants would shuttle through the carriages, selling packed meals, snacks, and drinks. This convenient service allowed you to grab something to eat without leaving your seat.
Business Class: If you traveled in business class, you enjoyed complimentary meals and drinks, including 3-4 dishes and one soup, served directly at your seat.

Comfort

The train’s comfort was designed to make your journey enjoyable:

Seats: Second-class seats offered ample legroom, while first-class seats provided more space and comfort. Business-class seats were luxurious, with superior service and amenities.
Amenities: You had access to clean boiled water, paper cups, and washbasins with liquid soap and tissue. Some trains even offered Wi-Fi connectivity, although it might require a Chinese mobile phone number for access.

Passing Landscape

As you gazed out the window, you witnessed the breathtaking Chinese countryside unfolding before your eyes:

Rolling Hills: The train traversed vast expanses of rolling hills, dotted with villages and farmland.
River Valleys: You might have caught glimpses of majestic river valleys, with waterways snaking through the landscape.
Urban Skylines: As the train approached Shanghai, the city’s skyline emerged, a testament to China’s modernization and growth.

Train Shanghai to Shengzen

Given your description of the train journey from Shanghai to near Hong Kong in 2017, it’s likely you took a conventional or regular train, not a high-speed train. Here’s why ¹ ²:

Travel Time: Before the introduction of high-speed trains, the journey between Shanghai and Hong Kong took around 19 hours. High-speed trains now cover this distance in approximately 7-8 hours.
Train Conditions: Your description of crowded compartments, plastic seats, and basic toilet facilities suggests a regular train with less comfortable amenities compared to high-speed trains.

In 2017, the train service between Shanghai and Hong Kong would have been significantly different from today’s high-speed options. The introduction of bullet trains like G99 has greatly improved travel times and comfort levels.

Possible Train Options in 2017:

Conventional Trains: These trains would have had more basic amenities, such as hard seats and squat toilets, which align with your description.
No High-Speed Train: The high-speed train service between Shanghai and Hong Kong wasn’t available until September 23, 2018, when the high-speed railway link opened.

Keep in mind that train services and amenities can vary greatly depending on the route, type of train, and time of travel. If you’re planning future trips, consider exploring high-speed train options for improved comfort and reduced travel times.

You described the journey as arduous, with crowded compartments and plastic seats. The toilets were standing-only, which added to the discomfort. After arriving at Shenzhen North Station, you walked and took the subway to Hong Kong.

Train Options

If you’re planning to take this route again, consider the following options ¹ ²:

High-Speed Trains: These trains take around 8-11 hours, depending on the type and route. The fastest train, G99, takes approximately 8 hours.
Normal-Speed Trains: These trains take around 18-19 hours, with harder seats and basic facilities.

Tips for Future Travelers

Book in Advance: Secure your tickets early to ensure availability, especially for popular trains.
Choose the Right Train: High-speed trains offer more comfort and shorter travel times, but normal-speed trains can be more budget-friendly.
Plan Your Route: Shenzhen North Station is well-connected to Hong Kong via subway. Make sure to plan your route in advance to avoid any confusion.
Pack Wisely: Bring essentials like food, water, and entertainment for the journey, as options may be limited on the train.

Subway from Shenzhen to Hong Kong

After arriving at Shenzhen North Station, you can take the subway to reach the border crossing to Hong Kong. From there, you can cross the border and continue your journey ¹.

Useful Contacts and Resources

China Train Booking: A reliable platform for booking train tickets in China.
TravelChinaGuide: A comprehensive resource for train schedules, prices, and travel tips.
Shenzhen Metro: Official website for Shenzhen subway information and routes.

Kuwait Ferry

After spending some time on Failaka Island, I returned to Kuwait City on a different ferry service at night. The ferry was much bigger and a bit slower than the Ikarus Marine Ferry I took earlier. Despite the slower pace, the larger vessel provided a more stable and comfortable ride, especially in the evening hours.

The nighttime journey allowed me to relax and enjoy the darkness of the Arabian Gulf, with the stars shining above. The ferry’s onboard amenities were similar to the previous one, with seating areas, restrooms, and snack bars or cafes available.

Upon arrival, we docked at a further point, which seemed to be a designated terminal for this ferry service. The disembarkation process was smooth, and I was able to collect my belongings and head out quickly.

The return journey on this larger ferry was a pleasant experience, offering a different perspective on the sea and the island. The slower pace and bigger size of the ferry made it feel more like a mini-cruise, and I enjoyed the evening ride back to Kuwait City.

The Taiwan EasyCard, also known as the EasyCard or Yoyo Card, is a rechargeable smart card that can be used to pay for public transportation, YouBike rentals, and small purchases at convenience stores, supermarkets, and some attractions. You can use the EasyCard on:

Metro and Trains: Taipei MRT, Taoyuan MRT, Taichung MRT, Kaohsiung MRT, and some train services (though not for seat reservations on most trains)
Buses: City buses across Taiwan
YouBike: Rent bikes with your EasyCard, but you’ll need a local phone number to register
Convenience Stores: Major chains like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and HiLife
Attractions: Some popular spots like Taipei Children’s Amusement Park, Maokong Gondola, and National Palace Museum

You can purchase an EasyCard at:
MRT Stations: Service windows or vending machines
Convenience Stores: Major chains like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart
Online: Buy on Klook or KKday before your trip and pick up at Taoyuan Airport

The standard EasyCard costs NT$100 (non-refundable deposit) plus the initial stored value (NT$400 for a total of NT$500). You can top up your card at:

MRT Stations: Service windows or self-service kiosks
Convenience Stores: Counter service

During my trip to Taiwan in 2018, I used the Taiwan EasyCard to navigate the metro and buses with ease. The card was a lifesaver, allowing me to tap in and out of stations and pay for small purchases without hassle. I purchased my EasyCard at an MRT station and topped it up at convenience stores throughout my trip. With its wide acceptance and convenient features, the Taiwan EasyCard is a must-have for any traveler exploring Taiwan’s public transportation system.

Single-Journey Ticket: Ideal for traveling to 1 or 2 cities, prices start at NT$1,490 (approximately $45 USD) for a regular fare ticket from Taipei to Zuoying (Kaohsiung).
THSR Pass: Suitable for extensive travel, offering unlimited rides for 2, 3, or 5 days. Prices vary depending on the pass type:
2 Flexible Days: NT$2,375 (approximately $72 USD) for any 2 days within a 7-day period
3 Consecutive Days: NT$2,090 (approximately $63 USD) for 3 consecutive days
5-Day Standard Joint Pass: NT$2,800 (approximately $85 USD) for unlimited rides on Taiwan Railway Chu-Kuang Express trains for 5 days and THSR trains for any 2 days
5-Day Premium Joint Pass: NT$3,600 (approximately $110 USD) for unlimited rides on Taiwan Railway Tze-Chiang Limited Express trains for 5 days and THSR trains for any 2 days

Where to Buy Tickets

Online Booking Platforms: Klook, KKday, and THSR official website offer ticket purchases with discounts and promo options.
THSR Ticket Counters: Located at THSR train stations across Taiwan.
Ticket Vending Machines: Available at subway stations.
Convenience Stores: 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, and OK Mart.

Tips

Seat Reservations: Reserved seat tickets are valid for specified dates and train numbers, while non-reserved seat tickets are valid for specified dates only
Book in Advance: Reserve tickets early, especially during peak travel seasons.
Check Schedules: THSR operates from 5:30 AM to 11:59 PM, with varying schedules for different stations.
Plan Your Route: THSR connects 12 cities, including Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, and Kaohsiung.
Use a THSR Pass: If you plan to travel extensively, a pass can save you money and time.

South Africa Gautrain Card

The Gautrain Card is a convenient and efficient way to navigate South Africa’s Gauteng Province, particularly between Johannesburg and Pretoria. Here’s what you need to know:

How to Use the Gautrain Card

Purchase a Gautrain Smart Card at any Gautrain station or online
Top up your card with a value of your choice
Use the card to travel on trains and buses

Gautrain Routes and Fares

The Gautrain network connects major cities like Johannesburg, Pretoria, and OR Tambo International Airport
Fares vary depending on distance, time of day, and ticket type
Single Journey Ticket: Ideal for one-off trips, prices start from around R15-20 (ZAR) for short distances
Day Pass: Offers unlimited travel for a day, perfect for tourists or occasional travelers
Airport Transfers: Direct link to OR Tambo International Airport, with prices around R150 (ZAR)

Traveling from Johannesburg to Pretoria

The North-South line connects Park Station in Johannesburg to Pretoria Station
Key stops along the route include Sandton, Rosebank, and Hatfield
Travel time and frequency vary, but trains run regularly throughout the day

Tips for Smooth Travel

Plan your journey using the Gautrain schedule and route map
Download the Gautrain app for real-time updates and fare calculations
Keep your Smart Card loaded with sufficient credit
Be mindful of peak hours (6:30 AM – 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM) and plan accordingly

Gautrain Stations and Facilities

Modern stations with amenities like ticket vending machines, waiting areas, and security personnel
Stations are well-connected to bus services for easy access to surrounding areas

Overall, the Gautrain Card offers a convenient, efficient, and relatively affordable way to travel between Johannesburg and Pretoria, making it an excellent option for both daily commuters and tourists

Kuwait Bus App

During my trip to Kuwait in 2024, I used the Kuwait Bus app to navigate the city’s public transportation system. I found the app to be user-friendly and convenient, allowing me to plan my routes, buy tickets, and track bus arrival times in real-time. The app’s journey planner feature was particularly helpful in finding the best routes and avoiding unnecessary delays. Overall, the Kuwait Bus app made my travel experience in Kuwait smooth and hassle-free.

The Kuwait Bus app, also known as Citybuskw or Citylink Kuwait, offers a range of practical features to make your bus travel experience smoother. Here are some key features and tips based on your 2024 experience:

Key Features:

Ticket Purchases: Buy single and day pass tickets directly through the app or from the bus driver.
Top-up E-wallet: Add funds to your wallet using debit/credit cards, K-Net, or Apple Pay.
Real-time Arrival Predictions: Track your bus arrival times and plan your journey accordingly.
Journey Planner: Input your start and end points to find the best route, including transfers and walking distances.
Favorite Locations: Save your frequently visited places for easy access.
Ticket Prices: View fares for your journey and choose the most cost-effective option.

Practical Tips:

Download the App: Get Citylink Kuwait or Citybuskw from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Plan Ahead: Use the journey planner to map out your trip and avoid unnecessary delays.
Validate Your Ride: Scan the QR code on your smartphone to board the bus.
Check Operating Hours: Bus service hours vary by route and day; check the schedule in advance.

Bus Fares:

Single Journey: Prices start from around 0.3 KWD (Kuwaiti Dinar) for local bus rides.
Day Pass: Available for unlimited travel within a day.
Monthly Pass: Options include single route or all-routes passes for 15 KD (Kuwaiti Dinar) and up ¹ ² ³.

Additional Information:

Customer Support: Reach out to City Group Co. KSC through their website or WhatsApp for assistance.
App Updates: Expect regular updates with UI improvements, feature enhancements, and bug fixes

Sapporo to Wakkanai Bus Ticket

During my trip in 2018, I took the night bus from Sapporo to Wakkanai and had a comfortable journey. I purchased my ticket at the Sapporo bus station and was impressed by the cozy, pod-like seats that reclined, making it perfect for a good rest during the 5-hour journey. The experience was smooth and convenient, and I’m glad to see that the service is still operational with similar amenities.

The bus service from Sapporo to Wakkanai is still operational, with multiple daily departures. Here’s what you need to know:

Bus Schedule and Fares:

The journey takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the route and type of bus.
Fares range from ¥6,030 to ¥6,700 (approximately $40-$45 USD).
Buses depart from Odori Bus Center in Sapporo and arrive at Wakkanai Station Square Terminal.

Booking and Travel Tips:

You can book tickets online or at the bus station in Sapporo.
It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Buses have comfortable seats, and some may offer reclining seats or “pod-like” seating, similar to what you experienced in 2018.

Night Bus Options:

There are night bus services available, departing from Sapporo and arriving in Wakkanai early in the morning.
One of the night bus schedules departs from Odori Bus Center at 23:00 and arrives at Wakkanai Station Square Terminal at 05:25.

Bus Facilities:

Bus facilities may differ depending on the service provider, so it’s best to check ahead of time.
Some buses may offer amenities like restrooms and snack bars

Train Ticket, Dorasan Station, South Korea

In 2017, you took the DMZ train to Dorasan Station, experiencing the stark contrast between the peaceful atmosphere and the harsh realities of the demilitarized zone. You likely observed the eerie remnants of war, visited the Dorasan Peace Park, and gazed into North Korea from the Dora Observatory. The train ride itself was a unique experience, with an empty train car initially, followed by locals boarding at Seoul Station. The journey offered a glimpse into the complex history and politics of the region, making for a memorable experience.

The DMZ Peace Train to Dorasan Station is still operational, offering a unique journey to the North Korea border. Here’s what you need to know ¹:

Train Schedule: The DMZ Peace Train runs from Seoul to Dorasan Station on Wednesdays to Sundays, with departures from Yongsan Station at 10:08 AM and Seoul Station at 10:15 AM.
Ticket Prices: Round-trip tickets cost around ₩17,800 from Seoul Station and ₩18,400 from Yongsan Station. You’ll also need to purchase a separate bus tour ticket (₩13,000, potentially ₩18,000 as of 2019) and pay for lunch (₩7,000).
Dorasan Station: This station is a symbolic endpoint, situated near the North Korea border, with a grand station building ready for potential future reunification. The station remains largely unused for its intended purpose but offers an interesting experience.

Old Greyhound Bus Pass

In 1999 and 2003, I had the opportunity to travel extensively with the Greyhound Bus Pass, exploring various cities across the United States. My journey took me from New York to Philadelphia, Chicago, Iowa, Nebraska, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and back to Denver, Atlanta, Miami, and finally New York. The pass provided me with the freedom to stop and go as I pleased, allowing me to experience the diverse landscapes, cultures, and people that America has to offer. The Greyhound Bus Pass was an affordable and convenient way to see the country, and I have wonderful memories of my adventures.

The Greyhound Bus Pass is still a popular option for travelers in the United States. Here’s practical information on the pass:

Types of Passes:

All American Discovery Pass: Offers unlimited travel for 7, 15, 30, or 60 days.
All American Pass: Provides unlimited travel for 7 or 15 days within a specific region or across the entire network.

Pass Details:

Passes are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Travelers can stop and continue their journey as many times as they like within the pass period.
Passengers need to reserve their seats in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Travel Routes and Schedules:

Greyhound offers routes to over 3,800 destinations across the United States and Canada.
Schedules and routes may vary depending on the region and time of year.

Purchasing and Booking:

Passes can be purchased online or through the Greyhound mobile app.
Travelers can book their trips in advance and check schedules, fares, and availability.