Indian Man Mocks Bullet Train Delay in Japan, Compares It to Lack of 5G SIMs; Video Goes Viral

Rare train delay sparks humor and debate on Japanese punctuality and tech reputation.

A video shared by an Indian traveler on social media has gone viral, offering a humorous take on a rare delay in Japan’s bullet train service. Known for their unparalleled punctuality, Japanese trains, including the iconic Shinkansen, rarely run late. However, a recent incident of a 1 hour and 30-minute delay challenged this reputation, prompting mixed reactions from passengers.

The Viral Video

our boys exposing JAPAN.

koi na bhay raat me cover kr legi 😂 pic.twitter.com/nKXaHk5QPx

— narsa. (@rathor7_) November 23, 2024

In the video, the Indian man humorously commented on the situation, mocking the stereotype of Japan’s impeccable efficiency. He joked about the country’s reputation for technological advancements and on-time trains, saying, “Humne suna hai Japan mein 7G aa gaya aur train kabhi late nahi hoti…aur 2 minute late hone se maafi maangte hain” (We’ve heard Japan has 7G, trains are never late, and they apologize even if they’re 2 minutes late).

Amid freezing winter temperatures and limited seating options at the station, the man expressed his discomfort and continued to poke fun at the experience. Comparing Japan’s technological claims to his own experience, he remarked, “We received 3G SIM cards at the airport. They claim 7G is here, but even getting a 5G SIM is expensive. Apne jaisa hi hai (It’s just like India).”

The video sparked widespread amusement online, with many netizens appreciating the light-hearted take on what is considered an unusual situation in Japan.

• One user humorously commented, “Rare footage of a Japanese train being Indian for a day!”

• Another wrote, “I was in Japan recently, and their trains are almost always on time. This must be a rare case.”

Others defended Japan’s track record for punctuality, explaining that such delays are typically caused by external factors like typhoons or other unavoidable circumstances. A netizen shared, “During my visit to Japan, a typhoon delayed the train. Even then, they kept apologizing every five minutes on the PA system.”

The Bigger Picture

Japan’s rail network, particularly its bullet trains, is often seen as a global benchmark for efficiency and reliability. Delays are so rare that even a few minutes warrant formal apologies from train operators. The incident highlights how a deviation from this high standard, while unusual, can create significant discomfort and raise eyebrows.

While the delay frustrated some passengers, the lighthearted video brought global attention to the high expectations surrounding Japanese transportation systems. It also underscored how cultural differences in humor and patience can shape people’s reactions to unexpected inconveniences.

The incident serves as a reminder that even the most efficient systems aren’t immune to occasional hiccups. The Indian traveler’s humorous observation, though satirical, sheds light on the human tendency to find common ground in shared inconveniences, whether in Japan or India.