I totally agree with you! I enjoy taking trains, subways, buses, streetcars, monorails, and so on when I visit different countries instead of just driving cars. When we catch trains, we feel very free to go anywhere, as you know. We can sleep, read, eat, drink, enjoy conversation, and more!
I enjoyed riding on the Amtrak when I visited the US before, even though they often stopped for mechanical issues. That became one of my trip memories.
In Canada, it's basically the same as you said. Monopoly businesses are controlling our transportation… I don't want to drive all the time. Sometimes I want to catch trains. It's so wasteful not to use these beautiful options here. We could go to Halifax by train. It means we can go to the airport by train. It would be much more convenient for sure...
Anyway, I love Japanese trains and subways. I don't like rush hours, but they're very useful and fun!