Sixty years after the debut of the world’s first high-speed train, rail enthusiast Paul Carter takes a ride on the Shinkansen, traveling along what’s now known as the “New Golden Route.”
Standing on Platform 19 at Tokyo Station, a bustling hub of modern rail travel, it’s hard to imagine that this was where the first Shinkansen train departed six decades ago, heading to Osaka. With its sleek, sloping nose and aerodynamic curves, the Shinkansen quickly earned the nickname “bullet train,” becoming a global icon of high-speed rail.
According to the Leaders Asia sources, the original Tokyo-to-Osaka route, the Tokaido Shinkansen, became known as “The Golden Route,” transporting passengers between two major cities while offering views of Mount Fuji and historic Kyoto—all in less than two and a half hours. Today, the network has grown to cover much of Japan, connecting the islands of Hokkaido, Honshu, and Kyushu with unparalleled efficiency.
A New Chapter in the Shinkansen Legacy
In March 2024, the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension to Tsuruga opened, forming what travelers now call “The New Golden Route.” For Paul, this journey was the focus of his exploration for the BBC series The World’s Greatest Train Journeys.
Starting in Tokyo, he marveled at how the bullet train effortlessly whisked him from the capital to Toyama in just two hours. From there, he ventured off the main route to Unazuki Onsen, a serene hot spring town in the Kurobe Gorge. Nestled in stunning natural surroundings, Unazuki Onsen offers the perfect counterbalance to Tokyo’s hustle and bustle. Visitors can soak their feet in a hot spring right at the train station before heading to one of the town’s many traditional onsen for a more immersive experience.
As per the Leaders Asia sources, for train enthusiasts, the highlight of the area is the Kurobe Gorge Railway, a narrow-gauge line offering breathtaking views of the forested ravine.
Exploring Culture and Contrasts
Continuing on the Shinkansen, Paul arrived in Kanazawa, a city known for its samurai heritage and gold leaf production. Despite its rich history, Kanazawa manages to feel modern and lively. After indulging in gold leaf-covered ice cream, he headed toward Wajima in the Noto Peninsula, an area still recovering from a devastating 7.6-magnitude earthquake in early 2024.
Reaching Wajima required a mix of local trains and a short drive, but the journey was lightened by a Pokemon-themed train designed to bring smiles to children affected by the disaster. In Wajima, Paul witnessed the resilience of the local community as they worked to rebuild their lives and preserve the centuries-old craft of Wajima-nuri lacquerware.
Reflecting on Japan’s Evolution
The final leg of the journey brought Paul to Osaka, Japan’s bustling second city. As the Shinkansen sped through the countryside, he reflected on how much the nation has changed in the past 60 years. Japan is a place of stark contrasts—ultra-modern cities juxtaposed with ancient traditions and natural beauty.
The Shinkansen, more than just a marvel of engineering, is a symbol of this duality. It connects dense urban centers with remote corners of the country, allowing travelers to experience both the vibrancy of modern Japan and the tranquility of its rural landscapes.
For Paul, the Shinkansen wasn’t just a means to travel quickly from one city to another. It was a gateway to discovering the heart and soul of Japan—its traditions, its resilience, and its commitment to innovation while honoring the past.
