Kyoto’s train to nowhere offers s iconic views of Japan’s seasons
Trace the mountain route of Kyoto’s Sagano Scenic Train and you will find that it is intimately entwined with the curves of the Hozugawa River. The winding route lies in stark contrast to the JR Sanin Line that replaced it in 1989. Then the old Sagano tracks were outfitted with nostalgic, old-fashioned carriages for a second life as a scenic route. The scenery changes dramatically depending on the season—the surrounding slopes can vary from the pale pinks of sakura to the warm, vibrant shades of autumn. It is almost as if you got a front seat to the highlight reel of the colors of Japan. [atlasobscura.com]
What to see at the end of the A Train, NYC’s longest subway line
n 1939, jazz legend Duke Ellington, in collaboration with composer Billy Strayhorn, created an instrumental piece that would become emblematic of New York City’s music history. “Take the A-Train,” is considered one of the most notable Duke Ellington hits, and there is much to be said for the subway line which inspired the song. Opened in 1932, the A-train is the longest route in the New York City Subway System. At a whopping 31 miles, the A-train stretches all the way from Inwood in northern Manhattan to the Rockaways and Richmond Hill in southeastern Queens. Unlike other lines in the system, the A-train has four separate termini, with each acting as the gateway to four distinct neighborhoods. [untappedcities.com]
The Rauma Railway takes you through Norway’s dramatic mountains
Norway’s Rauma Railway was not only named Europe’s most beautiful train journey by Lonely Planet, but it’s one of the most dramatic. The Rauma, or Raumabanen, runs between Dombas, a leafy town known among adventurers and winter sports-lovers, and Andalsnes, the famous mountaineering capital at the mouth of the River Rauma. Its 114 km (87 mi) route passes over 32 bridges and glides through six different tunnels, taking in fjords, valleys, lakes, mountains and forests along the way – all in a mere one hour and 40 minutes. [goodhousekeeping.com]
USA Today ranks Durango & Silverton train No. 1 in country
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad got a boost this week: USA Today 10Best ranked it as the best scenic train in the country. This is the second consecutive year the narrow gauge railroad has rolled onto the top 10 list for scenic trains around the country. The Durango-Silverton train needed votes from fans and the USA Today panel of experts to gain the top slot. USA Today highlighted the historic railroad’s time spent hauling silver and gold along track laid during the late 19th century. [the-journal.com]
