High-Speed Rail Experiences of Vietnamese Travelers Around the World

Many Vietnamese travelers are impressed by high-speed train systems in Europe, Japan, China, South Korea, and Taiwan, particularly for their smooth rides—so comfortable that one can sleep soundly even at speeds of 300 km/h.

Europe – Eurail High-Speed Network

Travel blogger Vinh Gấu visited Germany, Austria, and Hungary during his Christmas 2022 trip and was deeply impressed by the Eurail high-speed train network, which connects 33 countries and over 30,000 destinations.

European train stations are typically located in city centers, making exploration easy and convenient. With a Eurail Pass, travelers can pre-book or easily change their train seats at no extra cost across multiple routes.

The average train speed is 250–300 km/h, with a remarkably smooth ride comparable to Japan’s Shinkansen and South Korea’s KTX.

Vinh recommends arriving at the station at least one hour in advance due to the size and complexity of major European stations, which also offer restaurants, cafes, and shops. Public transport integration is excellent, ensuring hassle-free travel between buses, subways, and high-speed rail stations.

Japan – The Shinkansen Experience

Ngọc Trang, a tour guest, experienced Japan’s iconic Shinkansen in November 2023. She compared the feeling to flying: fast yet smooth, with no noticeable vibration. Only by looking out the window can you truly grasp the speed.

Blogger Nguyễn Sơn Tùng (Lạc), who has lived in Japan for five years, regularly uses the Shinkansen for work. He noted the ability to sleep comfortably on long routes like Tokyo–Osaka or Tokyo–Niigata due to the train’s stable motion. Trains are exceptionally punctual—missing one could mean a long wait. Despite speeds over 300 km/h, passengers feel minimal disturbance thanks to noise-reducing windows and engineering precision.

“Even a cup of water placed on the tray barely trembles,” he remarked.

South Korea – KTX High-Speed Rail

Kim Hương from Hanoi chose to travel between Seoul and Busan by KTX high-speed train in September. While the price may not always be cheaper than a flight, the convenience of downtown stations and the desire to try a new experience made it worthwhile.

The cabins are modern, clean, and quiet, offering comfort at high speeds.
Hà Thị Hà, another Vietnamese tourist, praised the journey’s value—at 50,000–70,000 won (approx. 930,000–1,300,000 VND), the ticket price saves both time and effort compared to buses.

KTX trains feature wide seats, vending machines, Wi-Fi, and gender-designated restrooms with automatic doors.

Travelers are advised to check signage at stations, which is organized and easy to follow—similar to airport layouts.

China – CRH High-Speed Trains

Ngọc Châm, a representative of Top One Travel, has taken over 10 CRH high-speed trains in China on routes like Hekou–Kunming and Lijiang–Kunming. She described the experience as “smooth as flying.” Even at over 200 km/h, the ride is steady, with spacious seats that recline without disturbing the passenger behind.

Train stations in China are equipped with restaurants, shopping zones, and even massage chairs. According to Châm, high-speed trains help optimize travel time and preserve energy for sightseeing.

Taiwan – THSR High-Speed Rail

Trần Trọng An from Hanoi has used Taiwan’s THSR multiple times between Taipei and Kaohsiung. Though the distance is 350 km, the journey takes just 90 minutes. Upon arrival, travelers can easily connect to metro, bus, taxi, and other public transportation.

“You can leave Taipei in the morning, have breakfast in Taichung or Kaohsiung, and still make it to work or sightseeing on time,” he said.

Phạm Anh Vũ, a representative from Du Lịch Việt, shared that most Taiwan tours include at least one THSR segment so Vietnamese travelers can experience the system.
Despite speeds up to 300 km/h, the ride is extremely smooth. Stations are modern, centrally located, and well signposted, with amenities such as shopping malls and restaurants at hubs like Taipei and Kaohsiung.

“The experience rivals that of Europe or Japan,” he added. The typical fare from Taipei to Kaohsiung is NT$1,000–1,500 (approx. 800,000–1,200,000 VND)—a worthy price for the convenience.

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Source: VnExpress