This is the best way to get around any country in Europe (saving the Asian part of Russia), by far the best way in Japan, and not so bad in China, even. There are only a few trains that can be recommended in India, however, those specifically designed for tourists, as the rest are dirty, crowded and hot, not to mention slow and unpredictable these days. You can save from 10% to 20% on European travel by getting rail passes, before setting out for the Old World (you can't buy them there). Contact Rail Europe at 800/848-7245 or www.raileurope.com for more information.
