[umichguy]

My take on HSR preferences, based on what I've personally experienced:

Japan=>Other Asian systems (Korea, China)> Europe (Italy, France, Germany, Spain) >>>U.S (Acela)

I am talking about the whole system, not just trains or ticketing or something specific.

Haven't been in any other countries' HSRs, so don't know.

[com2kid]

Comparing Japan to China, the amazing thing is how organized the Japanese stations are. Being able to just walk on board a train that comes every 3 minutes is mind blowing.

I took high speed rail in China, and the one leg up China does have is the display showing the current speed! :)

[forgot-my-pw]

Taiwan is very good too, and very affordable.