It is customary for Japanese to be punctual. As Japanese are especially concerned about not being late, most have naturally acquired this habit. For example, in companies and public institutions, and for meetings with others, it is considered common sense to “be prompt.” Though it’s possible to turn up late for a date with someone close to you, it’s always necessary to text to say you’ll be late.
If a train arrives even one-minute later than scheduled, Japanese railway companies announce their apologies over the PA. Moreover, Shinkansen (bullet train) arrival and departure times are timed within 15 second periods.
For the Japanese who have been raised in such a time conscious society, it is sometimes hard to embrace the more laissez-faire attitude to time that comes with living in other countries. A Japanese living in Canada recalls an incident that occurred while moving house: when he called the electric company to confirm his appointment, he was told that, “someone will come by sometime between Monday and Wednesday, but I cannot guarantee exactly when.” In Japan, such a way of conducting business would be unthinkable.
To sum up, many non-Japanese people think that the Japanese can get a little hysterical with their obsession with time keeping. The tension on trains and at train stations that arises from the lack of elbow room makes a particular impression on these people. On the other hand, there were a lot of comments that stated that Japanese people are reliable because they are strict about time and keep their promises.