14 Japanese Vending Machines: *From Puppies to Ramen*
Japanese vending machines: From frozen slushies to puppy dispensers, explore the astonishing products in Japan’s vending machine capital.
Did you know that Japan is the ultimate vending machine paradise? 🇯🇵
Picture this: you’re strolling through the streets of Japan, and at every corner, you spot a vending machine offering something unexpected and fascinating. Trust me, it’s not just your typical snacks and drinks.
We’re talking about frozen slushie Cokes, shirts, eggs, flowers, umbrellas, fruits, puppies, and even fish!
Types of Japanese Vending Machines
Japan is known for its love of vending machines, and with over 5.6 million of them scattered throughout the country, it’s easy to see why.
Here are some of the types of vending machines you can find in Japan.
1. Beverage Vending Machines
Beverage vending machines are the most common type of vending machine in Japan. They offer a wide range of drinks, from tea and coffee to soft drinks and energy drinks.
Some machines even offer hot drinks like hot chocolate and soup. The prices are usually reasonable, with most drinks costing between 100 and 200 yen.
2. Food Vending Machines
Food vending machines are also popular in Japan. It offers snacks and meals, from sandwiches and noodles to hamburgers and hot dogs.
Some machines even offer fresh fruit and vegetables. The prices are typically higher than beverage vending machines, but the convenience of having a meal on the go is worth it.
3. Horror Vending Machine Corner
If you’re a fan of horror movies, then you’ll love the horror vending machine corner.
These vending machines offer horror-themed items like DVDs, books, and toys. Most of the items are usually limited editions, so you’ll need to act fast if you want to snag one.
4. Retro Vending Machines
Retro vending machines are a blast from the past. It offers items like old-school candy, toys, and games.
They’re perfect for those who are feeling nostalgic and want to relive their childhood memories.
5. Adult-only Vending Machines
Adult-only vending machines are exactly what they sound like.
They offer cigarettes, Alcohol, and CBD items. But you will need to show ID in some cases.
You will find them usually located in discreet areas, so you don’t have to worry about anyone seeing you use them.
6. Umbrella Vending Machines
Umbrella vending machines are a lifesaver on rainy days. You can get umbrellas in a variety of colors and styles.
It will be located near train stations and other high-traffic areas.
7. Egg Vending Machines
Egg vending machines are popular in rural areas of Japan.
You will get fresh eggs from local farms and a convenient way to get fresh eggs without having to go to the grocery store.
8. Hamburger Vending Machines
Hamburger vending machines are the latest and most recent addition to the vending machine scene in Japan.
You can get hot and fresh hamburgers in just a few minutes perfect for those who are in a hurry and need a quick meal.
9. Ramen Vending Machines
Ramen vending machines are a godsend for ramen lovers.
These machines offer hot and fresh ramen noodles in just a few minutes and are perfect for those who are craving a bowl of ramen but don’t have time to go to a restaurant.
10. Condom Vending Machines
Well, you wanna take care of safety?
Condom vending machines are similar to adult-only vending machines, but they offer a wider variety of condoms.
They’re usually located in public restrooms and other discreet areas.
11. Coke Vending Machine
If you’re thirsty while exploring Japan, you’ll never be far from a Coca-Cola vending machine. These machines are everywhere and are a staple of Japanese culture.
They’re easy to spot with the iconic red and white branding and the familiar Coca-Cola logo.
One unique feature of Coca-Cola vending machines in Japan is the Coke ON app.
- This app allows you to find nearby vending machines, get special deals, and even pay for your drinks using your phone.
- Just hold your phone up to the machine’s display, and you’re good to go.
12. Surgical Mask Vending Machine
Talking about Japanese vending machines, surgical mask vending machines are a common sight in the country.
It is especially relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic when wearing masks became a daily routine.
You can find these machines in many places, including airports, train stations, and shopping centers. They offer various types of masks, from disposable to cloth masks with cute designs.
The prices of the masks are reasonable, and you can choose the one that suits your needs. Some machines even offer special packages for families or tourists.
The surgical mask vending machines are easy to use.
- You insert your money
- Select the type of mask you want
- The machine dispenses it for you.
13. Puppy Vending Machine
They are located in pet stores and are popular among locals and tourists alike.
While the idea of buying a puppy from a vending machine may seem strange, it is important to note that these are regulated by the Japanese government.
The pet stores that operate them are required to follow strict guidelines to ensure the welfare of the animals.
The puppy vending machine is just one example of the unique vending machines you can find in Japan.
14. Miscellaneous Vending Machines
You will find tons of variety of items that don’t fit into any other category.
These machines can offer anything from
- Batteries
- Underwear
- Phone chargers
- Selfie sticks
- Portable fans.
How to Use a Japanese Vending Machine?
If you’re not familiar with how they work, using one can be a bit intimidating. Don’t worry, though – I will walk you through the process step-by-step.
Step 1: Find a Vending Machine
When you find a vending machine you want to use, walk up to it and take a look at the products it offers.
Most vending machines in Japan have pictures and prices displayed on the front, so you can easily see what’s available and how much it costs.
Step 2: Choose Your Product
Once you’ve decided what you want to buy, look for the corresponding button or slot on the vending machine.
Check that each has buttons for each product, while others have slots where you insert your money and then make your selection.
Step 3: Insert Your Money
If the vending machine has a slot for coins and bills, insert your money into the appropriate slot.
Most vending machines in Japan accept:
- ¥10
- ¥50
- ¥100
- ¥500
- ¥1000.
Some machines also accept IC transport cards, such as Suica or Pasmo.
Step 4: Make Your Selection
After you’ve inserted your money, press the button for the product you want to buy, or select it from the menu if the machine has a screen.
You will see some of them offer multiple options for the same product, such as different flavors of soda or different brands of chips.
Step 5: Collect
The vending machine will dispense your product and it will have a door that opens automatically, while others require you to pull the product out from a slot at the bottom of the machine.
Don’t forget to take your change if the machine gives it to you!
READ: Beer Vending Machines: Are they Legal in the US & Japan
How Many Vending Machines Are Available in Japan?
According to the Japan Vending System Manufacturers Association (JVMA), there were approximately 4 million vending machines in Japan in 2021.
That number increased to 5 Million according to Japan Times.
That’s a lot of vending machines!
In fact, Japan has the highest number of vending machines per capita in the world. That means there are more vending machines in Japan per person than in any other country.
Why Japanese Vending Machines Are So Popular
Let’s have a look at why they are so popular, unlike many other countries.
1. Convenience
Japanese people are always on the go and vending machines provide a quick and easy way to grab a drink or snack.
You can find vending machines in train stations, office buildings, and even on the streets.
2. Variety of Products
They offer a wide range of drinks, from hot and cold coffee to tea and even soup.
But it’s not just food and drinks that are available in vending machines, you can also find machines that sell umbrellas, batteries, and even ties for businessmen who forgot theirs at home.
In addition to convenience and variety, vending machines in Japan are also known for their reliability and cleanliness.
They are regularly maintained and cleaned, making them a safe and hygienic option for grabbing a quick snack or drink.
Overall, Japanese vending machines have become a staple of daily life in Japan. They offer convenience, variety, and reliability, making them a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
Japanese vending machines offer a wide range of unique items, including frozen slushies, puppy and kitten dispensers, sake, fresh fruits, basic groceries, t-shirts, and even instant prayer cards.
Yes, Japan is known for its attention to detail, and you can find vending machines that offer cute decorative latte art on your coffee. Just look out for these machines, especially at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.
READ: How to Order Car Vending Machine In Japan: Step-by-Step
