Japanese Vending Machines: Amazing Variety and Fun!

When you visit Japan, you will see"Vending Machine".
They are installed in various places, such as roadsides, stations, tourist spots, and even in the mountains and on remote islands. It is said that there are more than 4 million vending machines in Japan, which is an unprecedented number in the world. Moreover, the contents are surprisingly diverse!
More than just drinks, Japanese vending machines are a treasure trove of surprises and fun.

1. Vending machines don't just sell drinks? A surprising product lineup

First of all, you can't miss the vending machines selling basic drinks. What's interesting is that the drinks they offer change with the seasons. In the summer, they have cold drinks, and in the winter, they have rows of hot canned coffee and tea labeled "hot."
However, Japanese vending machines don't stop there!

• Ice cream vending machine
  Ice cream vending machines can be found in front of convenience stores and in parks during the summer.
  Only in Japan can you enjoy cold, delicious ice cream at any time! Some flavors are only available in certain regions, making them perfect for making a memory of your trip.
• Hot food also available from vending machines!
  Amazingly, hot foods such as ramen, udon, and oden are also available from vending machines.
  Vending machines that dispense piping hot soup or noodles in cups are especially perfect for cold winter days. In Tokyo, there are also vending machines that dispense hot popcorn and french fries, allowing you to enjoy a crispy snack on the spot.
• Eggs, vegetables, and even fruit!
  If you go to rural areas, you can even find vending machines that sell eggs and fresh, locally grown vegetables and fruits.
  The ability to easily purchase fresh ingredients delivered directly from farmers is one of the attractions of Japanese vending machines.
• Umbrellas and daily necessities available
  It's also helpful that there are umbrella vending machines in case of sudden rain.
  In addition to this, you can also find vending machines selling everyday items such as chargers, socks, and masks. This is truly a Japanese city where you don't have to worry about forgetting something!
• Flower vending machine
  A convenient flower vending machine for when you want to easily convey your romantic feelings.
  You can get beautiful bouquets, which are perfect for anniversaries and gifts for loved ones. They are often found near train stations and shopping malls, so they are also useful when you suddenly need flowers while traveling.

2. A "Vending Machine Tour" that takes you around unique vending machines!

There are places in Japan where vending machines themselves can be enjoyed as tourist attractions. For example, Akihabara and Shibuya have areas where vending machines selling rare products are concentrated, and they are a hot topic on social media.

• "Fortune vending machine"
  In tourist spots such as Asakusa in Kyoto, there are also vending machines where you can try your luck with an omikuji fortune.
  Put in 500 yen and you'll get a fortune-telling slip. Have fun with your friends and family.
• "Raw fish food" and "insect specimens"
  In tourist spots rich in nature, there are also places where you can feed live fish.
  What is sold there is a "food vending machine." In some areas, there are also vending machines that sell "insect specimens," which are a must-have for insect lovers. This is sure to pique your curiosity!
• "Unique goods vending machine"
  Vending machines, which have a similar feel to gachapon machines and sell unusual products, are also very popular.
  For example, at the "Mysterious Canned Food Vending Machine" in Akihabara, you can get canned food without knowing what's in it. Some of the cans contain delicacies such as octopus and squid, and are popular with foreign tourists.

3. The future of vending machines – cashless and eco-friendly initiatives

Japanese vending machines continue to evolve.
Recently, cashless vending machines that accept smartphone payments and electronic money have become more common, making it convenient for tourists. Furthermore, vending machines with an eye to the future are also appearing, such as eco-friendly vending machines that run on solar power and "disaster relief vending machines" that provide free drinks in the event of a disaster.

Japanese vending machines are not just a way to buy drinks; they enrich everyday life and double the enjoyment of sightseeing.
When you visit tourist spots, be sure to look for unusual vending machines. They are everywhere in our everyday lives, and are filled with surprises and excitement that are unique to Japan!