Vending machines are a staple of modern convenience, but nowhere else on Earth have they reached the level of innovation and ubiquity seen in Japan. With over 4 million vending machines nationwide, Japan’s streets are lined with automated vendors selling everything from ice-cold drinks to fresh bananas. If you think vending machines are just limited to snacks and sodas, though, think again—Japan has turned them into an art form of eccentricity. The sheer variety of products on offer from these machines provides a great glimpse into Japanese society, culture, and, of course, tastes. Let's dive in!
History of Vending Machines in Japan
While the world's first vending machine technically dates as far back as 215 BC to Egypt, where one could exchange a five-drachma coin for some holy water, the first vending machine in Japan was a tobacco dispenser invented in 1888 by Tawaraya Koshichi, an inventor and furniture designer. In 1904, Tawaraya-san also created the Automatic Postage Stamp and Postcard Vending Machine, which is the oldest existing vending machine in Japan. It not only sold stamps and postcards, but it also served as a postal box.
Tawaraya's vending machines were equipped with a slug rejector to eliminate counterfeit coins, as well as a coin return function to ensure coins were returned when sold out. This level of vending machine technology was not yet seen in Western equipment of the era. Over time, the range of products offered to the Japanese public expanded, and by the 1950s, the popularity of vending machines took flight as the machines started selling beverages, snacks, and various other unusual items. That said, the real boom came in the 1960s when Japan started mass producing new 100 yen coins, with these technological advancements leading to greater ease of use and a growing nationwide obsession (especially with an exciting new American company entering the market: Coca Cola).
By the 1970s, another game-changing vending machine was created, this time by Pokka Sapporo and Sanden Retail Systems: the 冷温式自動販売機 (hot and cold vending machine). This is the most common type of vending machine in Japan nowadays, where both hot and cold drinks are dispensed—a real treat during the autumn and winter season when the weather starts getting cold! Today, vending machines can be found in the most unexpected places—from deep in the mountains to inside temples—and they offer an astonishing array of products. Innovations such as refrigerated and heated machines allowed for a greater variety of products, including ice cream and even piping-hot ramen!
The Weird and the Wonderful: What Can You Buy?
Beyond the typical beverages and snacks that we commonly associate with these machines, there are some really unbelievable items you can find in vending machines across Japan too! From goldfish to omamori, udon to toasted sandwiches, we cannot mention all of the amazing products on offer, but here are a few of our favourites:
Hot Burgers – We mentioned you could get piping hot ramen from a vending machine, but did you know some vending machines serve freshly made cheeseburgers? You can get a warm meal at any time of day or night.
Fresh Eggs – Need eggs in the middle of the night? No problem! Many rural areas have vending machines stocked with farm-fresh eggs.
Used Books – Japan’s literary vending machines provide a surprise read at a low cost, offering an eclectic mix of novels and manga.
Mystery Boxes – Some machines offer “gacha” style mystery boxes, where you pay for a random item that could be anything from electronics to fashion accessories.
Canned Bread – This emergency food staple comes in flavours like chocolate chip and coffee, proving that even bread can be sold from a machine.
Umbrellas and Ties – Forgot your umbrella or need a tie for work? Japanese vending machines have your back. Now there's no excuse to not look your sharpest.
Luxury Wagyu Beef – Yes, you can even buy premium cuts of Wagyu beef from vending machines in select locations!
Fresh Flowers – Did you forget to buy your sweetheart a Valentine's Day gift? Don't worry, the seasonal vending machines outside select train stations might save the day with their fresh flowers. (Don't worry about them needing water though - the flowers are sealed in plastic to contain moisture, creating a terrarium-like system while they are in the machine.)
Health and Beauty Products – From vitamins and skincare products to sanitary items and face masks, these vending machines cater to everyday needs.
Why Are Japanese Vending Machines So Popular?
Several factors contribute to Japan’s love for vending machines. The country has a low crime rate, meaning machines are rarely vandalised. The convenience-driven culture also values efficiency, and vending machines provide 24/7 service without the need for human interaction. Additionally, Japan’s technological prowess allows these machines to operate with incredible precision, offering everything from touchscreens and multiple language options to AI integration and facial recognition systems. Many vending machines accept various forms of payment, including cash, credit cards, and mobile payment apps like Suica and Pasmo, with annual sales in Japan amounting to approximately 5 trillion Japanese yen (R 615 billion). Additionally, vending machines are increasingly connected to the Internet of Things (IoT), allowing operators to monitor stock levels and maintenance needs in real-time, and eco-friendly machines are becoming more common, with energy-efficient designs and solar-powered options.
The Future of Vending Machines in Japan
For travellers and locals alike, these machines offer a glimpse into Japan’s unique blend of efficiency and eccentricity—making every purchase an adventure. With AI-driven machines, facial recognition payment options, and even vending machines designed to serve tourists, Japan’s obsession with automation shows no sign of slowing down, and the integration within modern life becomes all the more deep. Many vending machines nowadays even come equipped with a 'free vend' function that can provide drinks free of charge in the event of a disaster. As innovation continues, these machines will likely become even more interactive, personalised, and unexpected. Whether it's gourmet meals, high-tech gadgets, or something entirely new, Japan's vending machines prove that convenience and creativity go hand in hand. Whether you're looking for a limited-edition snack, a hot meal, or a quirky souvenir, Japanese vending machines are sure to surprise and delight.
