Japan’s Vending Machines: Drinks, Food, & Unique Finds
Japan is home to one of the most fascinating and convenient travel experiences you’ll come across anywhere in the world: its vending machines.
With over 4 million vending machines spread across the country, you never far from grabbing a quick drink, snack, or even a hot meal.
Japan’s vending machines are far more then just a place to buy a drink, in fact, they are a unique part of the culture, offering everything from fresh coffee and ramen to surprisingly unique and unexpected items.
For travelers, the vending machines in Japan are not only easy to use but they provide a fun and affordable way to try local drinks and food.
In this Japan vending machine guide, I’ll walk you through what to expect, where to find some rather unique vending machines, and why trying vending machines in Japan is a must-do experience.
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It’s funny, you’d expect to see a vending machine in the city or near a convenience store in Japan, which you do. But what gets me, is the vending machines that are in the middle of nowhere, like along a mountain trail or along a remote farm road.
Plain and simple, vending machines are everywhere in Japan and t here is a good reason for it. With over 4 million vending machines across the country, Japan has sort of built a culture around convenience, safety, and efficiency.
Japan has a very low crime rate, meaning vending machines can operate almost anywhere without risk. The demand for 24/7 access to drinks and food makes vending machines a staple for both locals and visitors.
If you are traveling to Japan, you’ll notice vending machines are everywhere. They are found on nearly every street corner from busy streets to remote areas.
What You Can Buy from Vending Machines in Japan
Compared to other countries, the variety of items you can find in a vending machine in Japan is impressive and sometimes overwhelming.
While most vending machines stock classic drinks like water, soda, and coffee, many go beyond that, offering hot meals, desserts, and even unique or “weird” items you won’t find in other places.
Different vending machine companies sell different products, so you have a nice range of different products.
Many vending machines also have hot and cold options for drinks like coffee and tea.
Drinks
Drinks are by far the most common items you will come across in the vending machines. It’s perfect for when you are on the go. When I cycle long distances, I rely on vending machines for water and energy drinks.
You can find popular brands like Boss Coffee and Pocari Sweat. Many drinks are local too, for instance in Okinawa you can find Bireley’s soft drinks.
Food
It’s true, you can find food and even full meals inside vending machines. I’ve seen vending machines serving hot ramen, pizza, and local specialties like goat and even horse meat in Okinawa.
Desserts
If you are craving something sweet, some vending machines in Japan even have a variety of desserts to include ice cream, macaroons, crepes, and other frozen treats.
Weird, Fun, and Unique Vending Machines
Part of what makes Japan vending machines famous is not only the drinks and food, but some of the unusual items you can find in some of the vending machines.
I’ve seen vending machines sell fresh eggs, sex toys, actual toys, and even fun regional souvenirs.
How to Use a Vending Machine in Japan
Using a vending machine in Japan is incredibly simple, you don’t even need to speak the local language.
Japan is a cash based society, so I recommend always having cash on you. That goes for vending machines as well, although many now do accept IC cards and credit cards.
To use the machine, you simply pay first and then press the button under your item and collect it from the tray below. There is really nothing to it!
Vending Machine Prices
Japan’s vending machines are considered very affordable. Although I think drinks and snacks are cheaper in grocery stores and convenience stores it’s convenient just to grab an item from a vending machine for maybe ¥20-50 more.
There are ¥100 vending machines but expect to pay anywhere from ¥100-200 most being in that ¥140-180 range.
For vending machines that sell food, it varies even more. I’ve seen items sell for as little as ¥200 to as much as ¥1000 and more.
Vending machines are always well stocked, clean, and regularly maintained. I’ve always had a reliable experience using a vending machine in Japan.
For budget travelers, vending machines are a great way to save money while exploring Japan.
Where to Find the Best Vending Machines
In reality, vending machines are everywhere in Japan. You don’t have to search hard to find one. Some of the best places to look for vending machines include train stations, tourist areas, and in front of stores.
Cities like Tokyo or Kyoto, you can find a vending machine almost on every corner. Some of the rural areas can be a little trickier but I guarantee you’ll find at least one along a road or near a local store.
Are Japan's Vending Machines Worth it?
100%! I’ve been in Japan for seven years now and still to this day rely on vending machines all the time. Whether I forgot my morning coffee or go on a long walk and need extra water or an energy drink.
For visitors coming to Japan, trying items from a vending machine is a fun and unique experience in itself. I guarantee when you go back home after a trip from Japan you will miss their amazing vending machines.
Conclusion
With over 4 million vending machines, that is about 1 vending machine for every 23 people here in Japan. You are guaranteed to see a vending machine in almost any city and rural area.
Keep an eye out for the unique ones, although to any traveler who’s never been to Japan, they are all unique. I am still amazed by the vending machines here and love that you can get hot and cold drink options.
I can’t recall a time where I’ve bought something from a vending machine in any other country. But in Japan, it’s almost a daily occurrence for me. Whether I am on a long bike ride and need an extra water or I forgot my morning coffee.
If you loved the vending machines in Japan let me know. If you’ve found some unique vending machines or fell in love with a specific drink or food item leave a comment for myself and others. Safe Travels!
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3 Comments
Salem
Hi I would like to get the phone number of the company to communicate with you further regarding the funding machines
zimminaround
Good evening,
Thanks for reading my post. Did you have a question about vending machines in Japan? I might be able to answer or help.
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