[SamuraiAlchemistNinja]

Don't over pay then. Lol, I know...that is odd and rather annoying, and in America it probably would not happen (the train would get, like, lit on fire or robbed or something of that nature-I live in the US so yeah, the people would rebel lol.)
But, if we're talking about efficiency and dependability, well, Japan has got it in the train transportation department, at least. The Train is Never Late, according to my friends over there
The conductor, or whatever, will give you a note if the train IS late, in case you need it for work, school, etc. Which is a win in some ways, but a fail in others...like: You can't blame the train for your lateness if you were out the night before & over-slept lol, etc. But if you're looking for an efficient way around, take the trains & get to the station early so you're not one of the people being shoved into the trian later!