Traveling is often linked to plane rides, road trips, and scenic train commutes. Whether they’re headed to the airport or merging unto the freeway, travel gives many people inevitable feelings of excitement. No matter how tourists choose to travel, sometimes the journey is more exciting than the destination itself! However, many tourists are unaware that transportation is limited to planes, long stretches of paved roads, and fast-moving trains. Some cities worldwide have developed creative ways of transporting supplies and local commuters!
From Japan’s fascinating bullet train to the traditional gondola rides of Venice, tourists can experience unique ways of commuting during their travels. Check out these cities worldwide that are home to some of the most remarkable transportation methods out there!
9 Kyushu, Japan: SL Hitoyoshi
Travelers who love Harry Potter and long to visit Hogwarts will love the SL Hitoyoshi. This steam train runs between Kumamoto and Hitoyoshi station in Japan. Operated by the JR Kyushu Railway Company, this steam-powered locomotive is as beautiful on the outside as it is inside. Its exterior is jet black lined with gold. Meanwhile, the cabin’s interior is sleek, equipped with polished wood and leather seats, with shelves of books available for passengers. The train also has an observation car so commuters can fully bask in the views of the Kuma River.
8 The Faroe Islands: Eysturoyartunnilin
Also known in English as the Eysturoy Tunnel, this is the longest tunnel in the Faroe Islands, extending about 11 km. Interestingly, the Eysturoy Tunnel has the world’s first-ever roundabout underwater! This massive underwater tunnel connects the islands of Streymoy and Eysturoy. Thanks to the tunnel, traveling between the capital Tórshavn to the city of Runavík only takes 16 minutes, despite being on separate islands!
7 Tokyo, Japan: Tokyo Cruise Ship
This privately-owned water bus operator lets commuters travel in a sleek-looking water taxi. In addition, travelers can enjoy viewing the Tokyo skyline during their commute! The Tokyo Cruise Ship offers passage across Tokyo through 6 lines. The cruise ships operate year-round, even on public holidays!
6 Morgantown, Virginia, USA: Morgantown Personal Rapid Transit
This uncommon mode of transportation is installed at West Virginia University (WVU) in Morgantown and is called the WVU PRT. Serving 15,000 people per day, the WVU PRT connects commuters to three areas within the WVU Campus. Each electronically powered vehicle runs along a 14 km line that transports commuters to any of the five stations installed on-campus. The PRT was recently revamped to improve its reliability (which has been spotty in the past)!
5 Rogaland, Norway: Ryfast Tunnel
Completed in 2017, Norway’s Ryfast Tunnel is the longest underwater tunnel globally, stretching for 14.5 km with its deepest point at 292 m below sea level! This massive tunnel is made up of 2 tunnels known as the Ryfylke tunnel—which connects Hundvåg city to the Tau village—and the Hundvåg tunnel—which connects the town to Stavanger. Like the Eysturoy Tunnel, drivers must pay a toll before entering the Ryfast Tunnel.
4 London, UK: Cycleways
Cycling is often regarded as a recreational activity. Still, the world-class city recognizes it as a viable, environmentally friendly mode of transportation. In fact, by 2024, London aims to create 450 km of Cycleways that will be accessible to all Londoners! Formerly known as Cycle Superhighways and Quietways, Cycleways are a network of biking routes connecting London’s businesses, neighborhoods, and iconic destinations. Cycling is not only a healthy activity for Londoners to enjoy but also an affordable way for tourists to explore London without breaking the bank!
3 Melbourne, Australia: Puffing Billy Railway
Perfect for travelers traveling with family and large groups, the Puffing Billy Railway takes passengers through the Dandenong Ranges on a locomotive built in 1900! Originally built as a mode of transportation to carry goods and supplies, the Puffing Billy Railway is enjoyed as a tourist attraction to explore nearby communities and appreciate the local wildlife. Visitors can comfortably sit inside the rustic carriage as they journey over Trestle Bridge or make their way towards Gembrook. Guests can also enjoy a range of picnic lunches and meals, whether it's during their ride or at the visitor’s center.
2 Mongolia: Riding Reindeer
Nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers will love visiting Mongolia and spending some time with the Tsaatan people. This Mongolian tribe lives in the Siberian Taiga. This distinct Mongolian ethnic group is a small tribe. It has relied on reindeer as a source of food and a method of transportation for centuries. Travelers can journey to Mongolia (even on horseback) and book a tour to learn more about this unique tribe while exploring beautiful landmarks like the Uran Togoo Volcano and the Tsenkher Hot Springs. Most interestingly, tourists can meet the tribe's reindeer herd while having a chance at riding them too!
1 Shropshire, UK: Ironbridge Coracle
Coracles were an essential piece of transportation in the United Kingdom. These bowl-shaped boats were constructed for one passenger and used to travel along the river and as a net for fishing. For example, in the village of Shropshire's Ironbridge, the Ironbridge Coracle was used on the River Severn. Today, to preserve the heritage and history of these unique boats, coracle-making classes are offered close to Ironbridge!