Japanese Vending Machines: A Treasure Trove of Surprises and Humor
When you come to Japan, one of the first things that might surprise you is the sheer number of vending machines, isn’t it? They are installed everywhere in the streets, with claims that there are more than convenience stores.
However, the charm of Japan’s vending machines goes beyond just their "quantity." You will find yourself questioning, "They sell this too?" with products that astonish, cutting-edge technology that offers surprising features, and lineups that leverage local specialties. It’s truly an "experiential shopping" experience.
While overseas vending machines mostly offer drinks and snacks, in Japan you can get hot meals, insect cuisine, local gourmet treats, and even mystery products where you do not know what you will get.
In this article, we will introduce a selection of "unique vending machines" that can only be found in Japan. We will provide detailed explanations of the must-visit vending machine spots during your trip to Japan!
Top 5 Surprising Vending Machines!
1. Always Hot!
Japanese vending machines are not just "snack vending machines." There are vending machines that provide hot meals like ramen, pizza, curry rice, and even hamburgers.
For example, in Tokyo and Osaka, there are "ramen vending machines" that serve a bowl of authentic soup and noodles in just a few minutes. The recently popular "pizza vending machines" offer real stone-baked pizzas that are ready in about 5 minutes!
You can find "Hot Meal" Vending Machines, here:
✅ Ramen vending machines: Akihabara, Shinjuku, Haneda Airport
✅ Pizza vending machines: Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka
2. Packed with Humor!
Japanese vending machines are filled with products that make you wonder, "Why are they selling this?"
For example:
• Insect Food Vending Machine (Akihabara, Tokyo): You can purchase snacks made from insects like water bugs, crickets, and scorpions!
• Omikuji & Protective Charm Vending Machine (Kyoto, Nara): Located near shrines and temples, these are extremely popular among travelers.
• Mystery Box Vending Machine (Shinsaibashi, Osaka): A capsule vending machine where you do not know what will come out, a test of luck!
Experience Spots:
✅ Insect Food: Akihabara, Nagoya
✅ Mystery Box: Osaka, Fukuoka
3. The Pinnacle of Latest Technology!
Recently, vending machines with "facial recognition payment" have appeared. By registering your credit card in advance, you can make purchases without a wallet. Additionally, "multilingual touch panel vending machines" make it easy for foreign tourists to use.
Feel the future at these vending machines:
✅ Facial Recognition Vending Machines: Shinjuku, Shibuya
✅ Multilingual Vending Machines: Narita Airport, Kansai Airport
4. Regional Exclusives! Travel Japan with "Local Gourmet" Vending Machines
One thing you must try while traveling is the "local gourmet vending machines."
For example…
• Hokkaido: "Crab" Vending Machine
• Osaka: "Takoyaki" Vending Machine
• Fukuoka: "Mentaiko" Vending Machine
These machines offer local specialties, making them convenient if you forget to buy souvenirs!
Regional Local Gourmet Vending Machines:
✅ Crab Vending Machine (Sapporo)
✅ Takoyaki Vending Machine (Osaka)
✅ Mentaiko Vending Machine (Fukuoka)
Japanese Vending Machines: An "Entertainment Experience"!
Japanese vending machines are not just "tools for shopping"; they are experiential content filled with surprises and discoveries.
• Products that make you say, "Wait? They sell this?"
• Experiences that let you feel the future with cutting-edge technology.
• Local gourmet foods that introduce you to regional culture
All of these elements create a "little adventure" during your trip to Japan.
Would you like to experience Japan's vending machines?
As you walk through the streets, if you come across an intriguing vending machine, be sure to give it a try. An unexpected "surprise" might make your journey even more enjoyable!
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