A JR-West Railway train left its stop 25 seconds too early last year, prompting much public criticism and an apology from the firm. Photo: Shutterstock
A JR-West Railway train left its stop 25 seconds too early last year, prompting much public criticism and an apology from the firm. Photo: Shutterstock
Japan

Why is Japan so obsessed with being on time?

  • In a country where being late by seconds can spark a scandal, the pressure to be punctual is too much for some
  • Firms are discovering punctuality doesn’t always equal efficiency

A JR-West Railway train left its stop 25 seconds too early last year, prompting much public criticism and an apology from the firm. Photo: Shutterstock
A JR-West Railway train left its stop 25 seconds too early last year, prompting much public criticism and an apology from the firm. Photo: Shutterstock
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