Japan’s upcoming Linear Chuo Shinkansen train system has announced a nonstandard feature: no reclining seats. The move, aiming to maximize space and decrease the risk of passenger disputes, has sparked debate among potential riders. The trains are slated for initial launch between Tokyo and Nagoya as early as 2027.

Owing to Japan’s high population density and reliance on public transportation, comfort and space efficiency in trains are significant issues. The shelving of reclining seats reflects Japanese values of courtesy and harmony in shared spaces, even though it might sacrifice individual comfort. Furthermore, Japan's meticulous planning culture also highlights how their transportation seeks to eliminate avoidable conflict like seat reclining disputes.

In the US and EU, seat reclining, especially on flights, has been a contentious issue, often leading to passenger disagreements. However, it's rare to observe systemic changes aimed to curb these issues outright, leaning more towards the individual's right to comfort.