Great Asian Railway Journeys
With his 1913 Bradshaw's guide in hand, Michael Portillo journeys across Asia by rail to explore the impact of European imperialism.
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Episode Title:Hong Kong
Michael Portillo investigates the impact of Hong Kong's return to Chinese rule, rides the cable funicular to the top of its highest mountain, and visits the impressive West Kowloon train station.
Episode Title:Chiang Mai to the River Kwai
Michael finds himself in Thailand, where he lends a hand at an elephant hospital and learns about northern Thai cuisine.
Episode Title:Bangkok to Hua Hin
Michael learns how 19th-century King Rama V founded the city on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River, built a grand palace and introduced railways to his country.
Episode Title:Ho Chi Minh to Hoi An
Michael braves the streets of Saigon - also known as Ho Chi Minh City - on a motorbike.
Episode Title:Hue to Halong Bay
Michael boards the Unification Railway from Ho Chi Minh City to the capital, Hanoi, and then to the northern part of Haiphong.
Episode Title:Jakarta to Borobudur
Michael visits the island of Java in Indonesia and the mega-city of Jakarta, exploring its history and colonial past as part of the Dutch empire.
Episode Title:Yogyakarta to Surabaya
In Java's royal city, Yogyakarta, Michael visits the Sultan's Palace and witnesses the ancient art of shadow puppetry known as Wayang.
Episode Title:Penang to Cameron Highlands
On the Malaysian island of Penang, Michael rides one of the steepest and fastest railways in the world. In the foody city of Ipoh, he helps bake a popular Chinese treat.
Episode Title:Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru
Michael continues his journey along the Malaysian peninsula, visiting the capital Kuala Lumpur and the historic city of Johor Bahru.
Episode Title:Singapore
Michael's tour takes him to Singapore, where he learns about the nation's maritime roots and its astonishing success as a global financial centre.