Great Asian Railway JourneysSeries 1 (60-Minute Versions)Episodes Episode guide

Back up to: Great Asian Railway Journeys

1. Singapore

   Michael walks the streets of Singapore's Chinatown with a local artist.
2. Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru

   In Kuala Lumpur, Michael tries the ancient art of pewter smithing.
3. Penang to Cameron Highlands

   Michael releases exotic specimens at Malaysia’s first butterfly sanctuary.
4. Yogyakarta to Surabaya

   In Yogyakarta, Michael visits the Sultan’s Palace and sees some shadow puppetry.
5. Jakarta to Borobudur

   In Jakarta, Michael uncovers Indonesia’s colonial past as part of a Dutch empire.
6. Hue to Halong Bay

   Michael meets milliner Mrs Ngo, who teaches him how to make the iconic conical hat.
7. Ho Chi Minh to Hoi An

   Michael Portillo boards Vietnam’s spectacular Reunification Railway.
8. Bangkok to Hua Hin

   Michael steps into the ring under the guidance of Master Toddy to learn muay Thai boxing.
9. Chiang Mai to the River Kwai

   Michael helps out at an elephant hospital and tries his hand at umbrella-making.
10. Hong Kong

    In Hong Kong, Michael’s highlights include the enviably efficient mass transit system.