Asia’s Best Train Journeys for Scenic Photography

17 June 2025

Riding a train through Asia is more than just a means of transportation—it’s an immersive journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. From misty mountains to sun-drenched rice paddies, every turn of the track reveals picture-perfect scenery worthy of a postcard.

If you're a photography enthusiast looking for that perfect shot, hop aboard! We’re diving into the best train journeys in Asia that offer stunning views and unforgettable moments.

1. The Glacier Express of the East – Qinghai-Tibet Railway (China)

Why You’ll Love It

Ever dreamed of capturing the raw beauty of the Tibetan Plateau? The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is your golden ticket. Dubbed the “Roof of the World” route, this train takes you to dizzying heights, offering some of the most surreal landscapes on the planet.

Scenic Highlights

- Snow-capped mountains that stretch endlessly into the horizon
- Crystal-clear lakes reflecting the sky like mirrors
- Herds of yaks grazing on vast open plateaus
- Breathtaking sunrise views over the Tibetan highlands

Photography Tip

The altitude can make the air quite hazy, so bring a polarizing filter to enhance contrast and cut through the glare.

2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (India)

Why You’ll Love It

This historic narrow-gauge railway, fondly called the “Toy Train,” takes you on a slow, scenic ride through the lush green hills of West Bengal. Think of it as a nostalgia trip with a side of jaw-dropping landscapes.

Scenic Highlights

- Tea gardens that roll down the hills like a green carpet
- Fog-covered mountains that create an ethereal vibe
- The famous Batasia Loop, where you can capture stunning panoramic shots
- A distant view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak

Photography Tip

Try shooting just after sunrise or before sunset—the golden light turns the tea plantations into a dreamlike paradise.

3. Kandy to Ella – Sri Lanka’s Most Picturesque Route

Why You’ll Love It

Sri Lanka’s train routes are legendary, and this one is the crown jewel. The journey from Kandy to Ella is an absolute feast for the eyes, winding through misty forests, waterfalls, and vibrant tea plantations.

Scenic Highlights

- The iconic Nine Arches Bridge—perfect for a postcard-worthy shot
- Rolling green tea fields stretching as far as the eye can see
- Dense jungles where you might spot a monkey or two
- The breathtaking Ella Gap, offering panoramic valley views

Photography Tip

Stand at the open doors of the train (safely!) for those Instagram-worthy shots of your feet hanging out with the landscape in the background.

4. The Eastern & Oriental Express (Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore)

Why You’ll Love It

Luxury and scenic beauty combine in this cross-country train ride. The Eastern & Oriental Express is a photographer’s dream, offering cinematic views as you glide through the heart of Southeast Asia in style.

Scenic Highlights

- Verdant rice fields and palm-fringed villages of Thailand
- The mystical karst mountains of Malaysia
- The historic River Kwai Bridge—straight out of a war-time movie scene
- The glittering skyline of Singapore as you approach the city

Photography Tip

To capture the essence of motion, try using a slow shutter speed to blur the foreground while keeping the background crisp.

5. The Shinkansen with a View – Fuji Excursion (Japan)

Why You’ll Love It

Japan’s high-speed Shinkansen trains are famous for efficiency, but the Fuji Excursion route is also a marvel for photographers. One moment, you’re zipping past futuristic cityscapes; the next, Mount Fuji looms magnificently in the distance.

Scenic Highlights

- Close-up views of Mount Fuji, Japan’s most iconic natural wonder
- Lake Kawaguchi, where reflections of Fuji can leave you speechless
- Seasonal landscapes—pink cherry blossoms in spring, fiery foliage in autumn, and snow-covered peaks in winter

Photography Tip

Fuji can be shy, often hiding behind clouds. Early mornings on clear days offer the best chances of a perfect shot.

6. The Vietnam Reunification Express

Why You’ll Love It

Stretching from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, this historic railway covers the length of Vietnam, passing through tropical beaches, misty mountains, and bustling cities.

Scenic Highlights

- Stunning coastal views along the Hai Van Pass
- Lush paddy fields dotted with conical-hat farmers
- Colonial-era train stations with old-world charm
- Traditional fishing villages where time seems to stand still

Photography Tip

Don’t just focus on landscapes—capture life inside the train, from locals enjoying a meal to vendors hopping aboard at each station.

7. The Trans-Siberian Railway Through Mongolia

Why You’ll Love It

Technically spanning Russia, Mongolia, and China, the Trans-Siberian Railway offers some of the most diverse landscapes in Asia. If you’re up for an extended adventure, the stretch through Mongolia is a photographer’s paradise.

Scenic Highlights

- The vast, untouched Mongolian steppes
- Yurts scattered across the open plains
- Wild horses galloping freely in the distance
- The stunning Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake

Photography Tip

Use a wide-angle lens to truly capture the immensity of the Mongolian wilderness.

Final Thoughts

If you ever wondered whether train travel could double as a moving photography studio, these Asian train journeys are proof that it absolutely can. With every click of the camera, you'll capture a slice of nature’s masterpiece—one track at a time.

So, pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable ride through Asia’s most scenic landscapes. Because sometimes, the journey itself is the destination.