World's Greatest Train Journeys

JAPAN'S NEW GOLDEN ROUTE - In this BBC News documentary programme episode, rail enthusiast Paul Carter celebrates the Shinkansen’s 60th anniversary as he jets from Tokyo to the mountain springs of Unizakeonsen, glitters through Kanazawa and meets the resilient artisans of Wajima, blending high‑speed thrills with slow‑travel charm. A perfect quick‑read overview for UK television viewers, this series highlight offers an entertaining slice of Japanese travel at a glance for the British TV audience.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW JAPAN'S NEW GOLDEN ROUTE is a six‑part documentary series that marks the 60th anniversary of the iconic Shinkansen. Hosted by rail enthusiast Paul Carter, the series follows his journey from the bustling streets of Tokyo along a newly opened coastal line, stopping at the mountain springs of Unizakeonsen, the gold‑glimmering streets of Kanazawa, and the resilient artisan community of Wajima. This programme blends high‑speed rail excitement with slow‑travel immersion, offering a fresh perspective on Japan’s heritage and modernity for UK viewers. WHAT TO EXPECT Each episode delivers a meticulously researched narrative that interweaves stunning cinematography with cultural insight. Viewers will travel at bullet‑train speed across scenic coastlines, then step off to explore hidden onsens, traditional gold‑leaf workshops, and the painstaking craft of Wajima lacquerware. Paul’s personable presenting style provides full details on the history of the Shinkansen, the engineering of the new route, and the personal stories of locals fighting to preserve age‑old crafts. The series balances documentary depth with the entertainment value of a travel drama, making it an in‑depth review of both technology and tradition. KEY FEATURES - UNIQUE SELLING POINT: A rare combination of high‑tech rail footage and intimate, slow‑travel segments. - CAST: Paul Carter, a recognised British rail specialist, guides the audience with authority and warmth. - PRODUCTION VALUES: 4K ultra‑high definition visuals, original score blending Japanese instruments with subtle British orchestration, and on‑location sound design that captures the rhythm of the rails. - FORMAT: Each episode runs 45 minutes, structured as a self‑contained journey yet part of a cohesive series, perfect for the British TV schedule. - ACCESSIBILITY: Subtitles and descriptive audio are included, catering to a broad UK audience. WHY WATCH For discerning UK television viewers who appreciate quality programming, this series offers a compelling mix of travel documentary, cultural anthropology, and engineering marvel. It satisfies the appetite for British TV audiences seeking both education and escapism, providing a comprehensive guide to a lesser‑known Japanese corridor while celebrating the universal allure of train travel. The series’ focus on artisans and community resilience resonates with viewers interested in heritage preservation, making it a must‑watch addition to any television guide. BBC ONE PROGRAMMING CONTEXT JAPAN'S NEW GOLDEN ROUTE fits seamlessly into BBC News’s tradition of acclaimed documentary series such as “Planet Earth” and “The Great British Railway Journey”. Positioned as a prime‑time entertainment slot, it complements the channel’s commitment to delivering in‑depth, globally relevant content to UK viewers. The series can be promoted alongside other travel and culture programmes, offering a fresh, international flavour that enriches the BBC News programming slate and appeals to audiences seeking both adventure and insight.