Japan built the Shinkansen by eminent domaining entire neighborhoods and boring through the Japanese Alps. China built its network by mobilizing a million workers and ignoring bankruptcy. France built the TGV by deciding that Paris should touch every corner of the hexagon.
But here is the reality: The world is divided into two hemispheres—the places that have solved the riddle of high-speed rail (HSR), and the places where searching for a bullet train feels like searching for unicorn fossils.
Searching for a Bullet Train in Japan can be a daunting task, especially for first-time travelers. However, with this comprehensive guide, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the Bullet Train network and make the most of your journey. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, the Bullet Train is an experience you won't want to miss. With its cutting-edge technology, comfortable seating, and breathtaking scenery, the Bullet Train is an iconic symbol of Japan's technological prowess.
Compare this to . You can search for a bullet train from Madrid to anywhere, and you will find it. The Spanish built the longest HSR network in Europe (second in the world) because they used a lower gauge, cheaper tunneling, and a political culture that values infrastructure over ideology.
"Searching for a bullet train in the pouring rain / To carry me away..."