Japanese rail company issue apology after train departs 20 seconds early

A JAPANESE train company has apologised to passengers after one of its services left 20 seconds ahead of schedule.

While frustrated commuters in Scotland are used to delays and cancellations, rail services in Japan are incredibly efficient and punctual.

This particular rail service on the Tsukuba Express was due to leave at 9:44:40, but instead whisked away from the station at 9:44:20.

“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused,” the company said.

“The crew did not sufficiently check the departure time and performed the departure operation.”

No complaints were made by passengers on the line, which runs in the greater Tokyo area.

On ScotRail services, train doors can close up to 30 seconds before the departure time, with passengers advised to get to their platform early.