In fact, as of 2022, there were about 3.97 million of them nationwide! Whether strolling through busy city centers or exploring quiet neighborhoods, you will encounter these handy machines offering all sorts of goodies.
But what’s the big deal about vending machines in Japan? Why are they so popular?
Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Japan’s vending machines!
What are Vending Machines?
Aside from its breathtaking views and mouthwatering food, What is Japan known for? Their unique and convenient vending machines! Vending machines are self-service machines that dispense various items, typically snacks, beverages, or small goods, when a customer inserts money or makes a payment via a card or digital wallet.
Vending machines are automated, eliminating the need for human intervention in the sales process.
They are commonly found in public places such as streets, train stations, airports, schools, and workplaces, offering convenience to customers who can access products quickly and easily at any time of the day or night.
History of Vending Machines in Japan
Late 19th Century
In the late 19th century, Japan saw the introduction of its first vending machine, which dispensed postage stamps and postcards.
The first vending machine then marked the beginning of automated retail in Japan. It offered a convenient way for people to purchase postage and stationery items without directly interacting with a store clerk.
Early 20th Century
In the early 20th century, vending machines in Japan began to offer cigarettes in addition to postage stamps.
The early cigarette vending machines were manually operated by store clerks and played a significant role in providing convenient access to tobacco products, particularly during a time when smoking was widespread in Japanese society.
1960s-1970s
The 1960s and 1970s marked a period of significant expansion and diversification for vending machines in Japan.
Beverage vending machines became increasingly popular, offering a variety of drinks to consumers.
Additionally, vending machines further began diversifying their offerings, introducing machines selling snacks, candies, and even hot meals.
Vending machines became ubiquitous in Japanese cities during this era, providing convenient access to a wide range of products for busy urban dwellers.
1980s-1990s
The 1980s and 1990s witnessed significant technological advancements in Japan’s vending machine industry.
Electronic payment systems, such as coin validators and bill acceptors, were introduced, making transactions faster and more convenient for customers.
Additionally, vending machines began incorporating advanced features like digital displays and real-time inventory tracking, improving efficiency and reliability.
2000s-Present
In the 2000s and beyond, Japan’s vending machines continued to evolve with the integration of cutting-edge technology.
Touchscreen interfaces and cashless payment options, such as IC cards and mobile wallets, became standard features in modern vending machines.
Furthermore, the advent of intelligent vending machines equipped with artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities allows for personalized recommendations and enhanced user experiences, ensuring that vending machines remain a vital and innovative aspect of Japan’s retail landscape.
Types of Vending Machines in Japan
Here are some of the different types of vending machines commonly found in Japan:
Beverage Vending Machines
Food Vending Machines
Cigarette Vending Machines
Novelty Vending Machines
Alcohol Vending Machines
Condom Vending Machines
Umbrella Vending Machines
Hot Drink Vending Machines
Ice Cream Vending Machines
Personal Care Vending Machines
Retro Vending Machines
1. Beverage Vending Machines
Beverage vending machines are ubiquitous on the streets of Japan, offering a wide variety of drinks to quench passersby’s thirst.
Beverage machines offer a convenient and accessible way for people to purchase beverages any time of the day or night, whether commuting to work, taking a break from shopping, or simply exploring the city.
Plus, the machines cater to various tastes and preferences, from traditional Japanese teas and coffees to popular soft drinks and energy drinks.
Depending on the season and mood, customers can choose from hot or cold beverages. There are options for refreshing drinks in the summer and warm beverages in the winter.
2. Food Vending Machines
Food vending machines in Japan offer a convenient solution for those seeking quick and satisfying meals on the go.
You can find these machines in high-traffic areas such as train stations, office buildings, and shopping centers, where people may not have the time or opportunity to sit down for a traditional meal.
Unlike traditional vending machines that dispense packaged snacks, food vending machines offer a variety of freshly prepared or packaged meals, snacks, and other culinary delights.
Inside a typical food vending machine in Japan, you’ll find a diverse array of options to satisfy different tastes and dietary preferences. These may include:
Ready-to-Eat Meals: Food vending machines often offer a selection of ready-to-eat meals, ranging from traditional Japanese dishes like rice balls (onigiri), sushi, and noodles to international favorites like pasta, sandwiches, and salads.
Bento Boxes: Bento boxes are a popular choice in food vending machines. They offer a balanced and nutritious meal in a compact and portable package.
Snacks and Side Dishes: Besides main meals, food vending machines may offer various snacks and side dishes to complement a meal or satisfy a craving.
Desserts and Sweets: Food vending machines often feature a selection of desserts and sweets, including cakes, pastries, cookies, and ice cream, for those with a sweet tooth.
3. Cigarette Vending Machines
Cigarette vending machines, once a common sight in Japan, offer a convenient way for smokers to purchase tobacco products without the need for human interaction.
While their numbers have declined in recent years due to stricter regulations on smoking and age restrictions, cigarette vending machines can still be found in specific locations throughout Japan.
These machines are typically located in designated smoking areas, bars, restaurants, and entertainment districts where smokers congregate.
Inside a typical cigarette vending machine in Japan, you’ll find a selection of tobacco products catering to different preferences and brands, such as:
Cigarette Packs: Cigarette vending machines offer a variety of cigarette packs from different brands, including popular domestic brands like Mild Seven, Seven Stars, and Mevius (formerly known as Mild Seven) and international brands such as Marlboro and Camel.
Tobacco Products: These products provide alternatives for smokers who prefer different smoking experiences or enjoy experimenting with varying varieties of tobacco.
Lighters and Accessories: Some cigarette vending machines may also stock lighters, ashtrays, and other smoking accessories for convenience.
4. Novelty Vending Machines
Unlike vending machines that dispense everyday items like beverages or snacks, novelty vending machines are designed to surprise and delight customers with unique and unusual products.
You can find these machines in various locations across Japan, including tourist attractions, shopping districts, and entertainment areas. They attract curious passersby with their eye-catching displays and intriguing offerings.
Some standard products found in novelty vending machines include:
Toys and Collectibles: Novelty vending machines often dispense small toys, figurines, keychains, and other collectible items featuring popular characters from anime, manga, video games, and movies.
Souvenirs and Trinkets: Novelty vending machines may also offer a selection of unique souvenirs and trinkets representing various aspects of Japanese culture, such as lucky charms, traditional crafts, and themed merchandise related to local landmarks and attractions.
Gachapon Capsules: Gachapon vending machines, also known as capsule toy machines, are a popular type of novelty vending machine in Japan. These machines dispense small plastic capsules containing random toys or figurines, often part of a themed collection.
Fresh Produce: In rural areas and agricultural regions of Japan, novelty vending machines may offer fresh produce such as eggs, vegetables, fruits, and even flowers.
5. Alcohol Vending Machines
Alcohol machines are typically found in designated areas such as bars, clubs, entertainment districts, and adult-only spaces, where patrons can access a selection of alcoholic drinks at their convenience.
While not as common as other vending machines, alcohol vending machines offer a discreet and efficient solution for those seeking to enjoy a drink while out and about.
Some everyday items found inside alcohol vending machines include:
Beer
Sake
Chu-hi is a popular Japanese mixed drink made from shochu, soda water, and flavors like lemon or grapefruit.
Whisky
Liqueurs
6. Condom Vending Machines
Condom vending machines in Japan serve a crucial role in promoting safe sexual health practices and providing access to contraception for individuals in need.
You can normally find them in public restrooms, train stations, convenience stores, and entertainment districts, where they offer a discreet and convenient way for people to purchase condoms and other sexual health products.
Designed with privacy and accessibility in mind, condom vending machines are often located in discreet locations such as restroom stalls or private corners, ensuring that individuals can obtain condoms discreetly and without embarrassment, reducing barriers to accessing essential sexual health resources.
In addition to standard latex condoms, these machines may also provide other sexual health products such as lubricants, contraceptives, and emergency contraception pills (where legally permissible).
7. Umbrella Vending Machines
Umbrella vending machines in Japan offer a practical solution for those caught in unexpected rain showers or adverse weather conditions. The umbrella machines are typically found in outdoor locations such as train stations, shopping districts, and tourist attractions, providing a convenient way for people to purchase umbrellas on the spot.
Made to withstand the elements, umbrella vending machines are often constructed of durable materials such as metal or plastic and equipped with protective covers to shield the umbrellas from rain and moisture.
Umbrella vending machines may include:
Compact Umbrellas: Compact umbrellas are the most common type found in umbrella vending machines, offering a lightweight and portable option for individuals on the go.
Standard Umbrellas: These umbrellas are ideal for situations where more substantial shelter is needed, such as during heavy rain or wind.
Disposable Umbrellas: Some umbrella vending machines may offer disposable or single-use umbrellas for temporary use in emergencies or unexpected rain showers.
8. Hot Drink Vending Machines
Hot drink vending machines in Japan offer a convenient solution for those seeking a warm and comforting beverage on the go, particularly during colder months or chilly evenings.
If you’re looking to spot these machines, you can find them in various locations, such as train stations, office buildings, shopping centers, and public spaces, providing a quick and accessible way for people to enjoy a hot drink.
They are equipped with built-in heating mechanisms. Hot drink vending machines are designed to dispense freshly brewed or heated beverages at the touch of a button, ensuring that customers can enjoy their drink piping hot and ready to go.
Hot drink vending machines provide comprehensive options such as:
Coffee
Tea
Hot Chocolate
Soup
9. Ice Cream Vending Machines
Ice cream vending machines in Japan offer a delightful and refreshing treat for those seeking a relaxed and indulgent snack on the go. They are typically placed in various locations, such as parks, tourist attractions, shopping districts, and entertainment areas.
Some machines offer single-serving options, allowing customers to choose their favorite flavor and portion size, while others may dispense pre-packaged ice cream bars, cones, or cups.
These machines may also feature touchscreen interfaces or digital displays, allowing customers to browse available flavors and quickly select.
10. Personal Care Vending Machines
Personal care vending machines in Japan offer a convenient solution for individuals seeking to purchase essential toiletries and hygiene products while on the go. These machines can be found in various locations, such as train stations, airports, shopping malls, and public restrooms.
Inside a personal care vending machine in Japan, you’ll typically find various essential items catering to different needs and preferences. These may include:
Toiletries: Personal care vending machines offer a selection of toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, dental floss, and disposable razors.
Hygiene Supplies: Personal care vending machines may also offer hygiene supplies such as hand sanitizer, wet wipes, facial tissues, and hand towels.
Menstrual Care Products: Many personal care vending machines in Japan provide menstrual care products such as sanitary pads and tampons for women in need.
Other Necessities: Besides toiletries and hygiene supplies, personal care vending machines may offer other essential items such as condoms, emergency contraceptives, pain relief medication, and first aid supplies.
11. Retro Vending Machines
Retro vending machines offer a nostalgic trip back in time, evoking memories of yesteryears with their vintage design and classic appeal. These machines often feature retro-inspired aesthetics, reminiscent of vending machines from past decades, such as the 1950s or 1960s.
You’ll find an assortment of nostalgic treats and classic snacks that harken back to simpler times, such as:
Retro Candy: Indulge your sweet tooth with a selection of retro candies, such as candy cigarettes, wax lips, Necco wafers, and jawbreakers, reminiscent of childhood favorites.
Vintage Soda: Quench your thirst with vintage sodas like root beer, cream soda, and cola, served in glass bottles for an authentic retro experience.
Classic Snacks: Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with classic snacks like Cracker Jacks, pretzels, popcorn, and peanuts, perfect for munching on during a movie night or road trip.
How Does A Vending Machine Work
Vending machines operate on a relatively simple yet ingenious mechanism that involves several key components working together seamlessly.
Here’s a breakdown of the technical side of how a vending machine works:
Payment System
Modern vending machines have various payment options, including coin mechanisms, bill acceptors, card readers, and digital payment systems.
When customers select a product and initiate a purchase, they insert coins and bills or swipe/tap their payment card or mobile device to authorize the transaction.
Product Selection
Each product in the vending machine is assigned to a specific slot or compartment, known as a “coil,” which contains one unit of the item.
After a selection using the machine’s interface (e.g., buttons or touchscreen), it triggers a signal to the internal mechanism to dispense the corresponding product.
Internal Mechanism
Behind the scenes, the vending machine’s internal mechanism consists of motors, sensors, and control systems coordinating dispensing.
The appropriate coil rotates or moves to release the product into the delivery chute.
Product Delivery
Once the selected product is dispensed into the delivery chute, it falls into a retrieval area accessible to the customer.
In some cases, particularly for fragile items or beverages, additional mechanisms such as conveyor belts or gravity-fed channels may be employed to guide the product safely to the retrieval point.
Inventory Management
Vending machines have sensors and monitoring systems to track inventory levels and detect when a product is running low or out of stock.
This information is relayed to the machine’s operator or owner, who can then restock the machine as needed to ensure continuous operation.
Safety Measures
Vending machines often have security features such as sturdy locks, tamper-resistant panels, and surveillance cameras to prevent theft or damage.
These measures help protect the machine’s contents and deter unauthorized access or vandalism.
How to Use A Vending Machine
If you haven’t encountered or used a vending machine before, don’t worry. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it:
Approach the Vending Machine: Locate a vending machine that offers the products you wish to purchase. Ensure that the machine is operational and adequately stocked with inventory.
Select Your Product: Use the machine’s interface, which may consist of buttons, a touchscreen, or a keypad, to browse through the available products and make your selection. Press the corresponding button or touch the screen to choose your desired item.
Insert Payment: Depending on the accepted payment methods, insert coins and bills or swipe/tap your payment card or mobile device to authorize the transaction. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the payment process.
Wait for Dispensing: Once your payment is accepted, the vending machine will initiate the dispensing process. Listen for any sounds indicating the product is being released into the delivery chute.
Retrieve Your Product: Once the selected product is dispensed, open the vending machine’s retrieval door or access panel to retrieve your purchase. Be careful when handling fragile items or beverages to avoid spills or damage.
Close the Vending Machine: Ensure the device’s retrieval door or access panel is securely closed after retrieving your product. This helps maintain the machine’s integrity and prevents unauthorized access to its contents.
Enjoy Your Purchase: With your product in hand, you’re ready to enjoy your purchase. Knowing you’ve successfully navigated the process, take your time to savor your snack, beverage, or other items obtained from the vending machine.
Why Vending Machines are Popular in Japan
There are many reasons why vending machines are popular in Japan:
Convenience: Vending machines in Japan provide round-the-clock access to a wide variety of products, making them incredibly convenient for busy individuals on the go.
Accessibility: Vending machines are located in virtually every corner of Japanese cities, from train stations to residential neighborhoods, making them easily accessible to residents and visitors alike.
Hygiene: Vending machines offer a hygienic way to purchase goods. They eliminate the need for direct human interaction, reducing the risk of contamination or spreading germs.
Time-Saving: Vending machines’ quick and efficient nature allows customers to make purchases in seconds, saving valuable time, especially during busy commutes or errands.
Variety: Japanese vending machines offer a diverse range of products, including beverages, snacks, meals, toiletries, and even electronics, catering to a wide range of preferences and needs.
Innovation: Japan is known for its innovative vending machine culture, with machines featuring advanced technology such as touchscreen interfaces, cashless payment options, and real-time inventory tracking.
Weather Adaptability: Vending machines in Japan are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme heat, ensuring that products remain accessible regardless of the weather.
Cultural Significance: Vending machines have become ingrained in Japanese culture and society, symbolizing efficiency, modernity, and convenience. They are often featured in popular media, including movies, anime, and manga, further cementing their status as iconic symbols of Japan.
Cities Where You Can Find the Most Vending Machines
Tokyo
With a population exceeding 14 million residents and countless visitors streaming in daily, Tokyo’s streets are adorned with a staggering number of vending machines, catering to the diverse needs of its bustling populace.
You’ll encounter them on virtually every street corner, train station platform, office building lobby, and even in residential neighborhoods, offering a seemingly endless variety of products and services.
Unique Vending Machines in Tokyo
1. Horror Vending Machine
In a quiet corner, hidden from the bright lights and shiny new vending machines, there’s a group of old, beaten-up ones. Locals call it the “horror vending machine corner.”
No one knows where they came from, but they’re full of strange stuff. Toy bugs, bells, mystery boxes with stories, even popcorn and grilled chicken in cans. It’s a weird mix, but people can’t help but be curious about what they’ll find there.
2. Retro Vending Machine
Tokyo has a special spot called the retro vending machine corner. It’s where old vending machines from the Showa era are kept. These machines are loved by people, especially young adults who want a break from the busy city life.
Retro machines bring back memories of simpler times and are a cool way to experience a bit of nostalgia in the modern world.
3. Adult-only Vending Machine
In Tokyo, you might come across something unique: adult-only vending machines. These machines don’t sell anything naughty, but they do require you to prove you’re over 20 years old before you can buy certain items like cigarettes or alcohol.
Osaka
Osaka, Japan’s vibrant second-largest city, pulsates with energy, culture, and a spirit of innovation – characteristics epitomized by its extensive network of vending machines.
While precise figures may vary, Osaka is known to have many vending machines, which enhance the city’s reputation for convenience and efficiency.
From the bustling streets of Dotonbori to the serene parks of Osaka Castle, vending machines are present, offering various products and services to meet the demands of locals and tourists alike.
Unique Vending Machines in Osaka
Bread Vending Machines
If you find yourself near Minamimorimachi Station in Osaka, take a short stroll, and you might stumble upon something delightful: a bread vending machine. This machine, located just a 5-minute walk from the station, offers freshly baked bread straight from a bakery.
It’s quite a unique sight! Every day, the machine dispenses bags of assorted bread, offering a variety of flavors and textures. The best part? The price is very reasonable, as the breads are considered “imperfect” due to their shapes not turning out perfectly during baking.
2. Gyoza Vending Machine
Outside the Naka-Nishi Gate at Higashi-Umeda station in Osaka, something special awaits gyoza lovers: a vending machine dispensing Chef Gi’s Gyoza for 600 yen.
But these aren’t your ordinary potstickers. Chef Gi, a world-renowned culinary artist with accolades like the highest-level food Preparer in China and a spot in the Chinese Cuisine Asian Top 10 Chefs Hall of Fame, created these unique gyoza recipes.
What makes them even more enticing is that they’re exclusively available through this vending machine – Chef Gi doesn’t serve them at his restaurant!
3. Coca-Cola Bottles and EXPO2025 Vending Machine
If you’re strolling through America Mura in Osaka, just a 5-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station, watch for some unique vending machines near BIG STEP. You can’t miss them – one on the left is an old-school Coca-Cola vending machine, while its neighbor on the right showcases sleek EXPO 2025 designs.
Yokohama
Yokohama, the bustling port city next to Tokyo, has vending machines. You can find them everywhere, from busy streets to peaceful parks.
As you walk around Yokohama, you’ll notice vending machines everywhere. They’re on almost every corner, offering drinks and snacks whenever you need them. With just a few coins, you can quench your thirst instantly. Or maybe it’s a chilly evening, and you’re craving a warm coffee. No problem—just find the nearest vending machine, press a button, and voila—your hot beverage is ready to enjoy.
Unique Vending Machines in Yokohama
1. Bakery Bread Vending Machine
In Yokohama’s Kannai Station on the Yokohama Subway Line, a brilliant solution to food waste has emerged: bakery bread from the local shop Enmichi Pan is now available in locker-style vending machines.
At the end of each day, regardless of expiration dates, Enmichi Pan faces the prospect of unsold bread being discarded. However, instead of letting it go to waste, they marked the price by at least 30% and placed the bread in the SDGs Station Lockers at Kannai Station.
2. Sriracha Vending Machine
Conveniently situated in a high-traffic area, locals and visitors alike can satisfy their cravings for a spicy kick on the go. This vending machine covers whether you want to add heat to your sushi or how to eat ramen or morning eggs.
You can unlock a world of flavor and spice with just a few coins. Simply select your desired bottle of Sriracha, insert your payment, and watch as the iconic rooster sauce drops into the dispenser below.
3. Chabacco Vending Machine
Whether you prefer cigarettes or rolling tobacco, the Chabacco vending machine covers you. Simply approach the machine, select your preferred brand and type of tobacco, insert your payment, and voila – your pack of tobacco is dispensed right then and there.
The Chabacco vending machine provides a quick and hassle-free way for smokers to replenish their supplies without visiting a convenience store or tobacco shop. It’s convenient for those on the go or needing a quick fix.
However, it’s important to note that tobacco vending machines often have age restrictions in place to prevent underage access. Therefore, only individuals of legal smoking age can use these machines.
Sapporo
In Sapporo, the largest city on the northern island of Hokkaido, vending machines are as much a part of the cityscape as its snow-capped mountains.
With its chilly winters and vibrant urban life, Sapporo boasts a notable presence of vending machines, providing warmth and refreshment to residents and visitors alike.
From steaming cups of hot cocoa to savory bowls of ramen, these machines provide a convenient respite from the cold, ensuring that residents and tourists can stay cozy and well-nourished while enjoying all Sapporo offers.
Unique Vending Machines in Sapporo
1. Jihanki-Land Vending Machine
One of the standout offerings from Jihanki-Land is its selection of insect snacks, providing adventurous eaters the opportunity to try something truly out of the ordinary.
Alongside these unconventional treats, the vending machines also dispense other unique items such as Michelin-guide-featured ramen, cheese sourced from eastern Hokkaido, and specialty candies.
2. Drinks Vending Machine
In Sapporo, as in many other cities across Japan, the ubiquitous presence of vending machines for drinks is a familiar sight on almost every street corner. These machines offer various beverages to suit every taste and preference, making them an essential part of daily life for residents and visitors alike.
However, if you want to enjoy and wonder what sake tastes like, you won’t typically find it in vending machines. Sake is a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage usually served in specialized settings such as izakayas (Japanese pubs), restaurants, or liquor stores. Check out our blog on how to drink sake properly.
15 Common Vending Machine Items
From refreshing drinks to tasty snacks, vending machines have it all. Let’s explore some of the most common items in these magical convenience boxes.
Bottled water: Refreshing and hydrating, bottled water is a convenient choice for quenching your thirst on the go.
Soda (carbonated soft drinks): Fizzy and flavorful, sodas come in various flavors to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Chips (potato crisps): Crunchy and savory, chips are a classic snack in various flavors.
Candy bars: Sweet and indulgent, candy bars offer a satisfying treat with chocolate, caramel, nuts, and more.
Chocolate bars: Rich and creamy chocolate bars provide a decadent burst of cocoa goodness in every bite.
Snack cakes (like Twinkies or Ding Dongs): Soft and sweet snack cakes are a beloved dessert option with moist cake and creamy filling.
Gum: Fresh and minty, gum helps freshen breath and provides a quick pick-me-up.
Energy drinks: Boost your energy with these caffeinated beverages, designed to provide a quick burst of vitality.
Juice boxes: Sweet and fruity juice boxes offer a convenient way to enjoy your favorite fruit flavors on the go.
Sandwiches (pre-packaged): Savory and satisfying, pre-packaged sandwiches provide a quick and easy meal option.
Fresh fruit (like apples or bananas): Healthy and nutritious, fresh fruit options provide a natural energy boost.
Instant noodles (including ramen): Warm and comforting, instant noodles are a convenient meal option that can be ready in minutes.
Coffee (hot or cold): Enjoy a pick-me-up with hot or cold coffee options, available in various strengths and flavors.
Popcorn: Light and airy, popcorn is a classic snack choice for munching during movies or on the move.
Lattes (specialty coffee drinks): For a luxurious coffee experience, indulge in a creamy and frothy latte made with espresso and steamed milk.
Conclusion
Japan’s vending machines offer convenience and a wide range of products everywhere. They’re not just machines; they’re a part of daily life.
Whether in a big city or a quiet town, these machines are ready to provide drinks, snacks, and more at the touch of a button. They represent Japan’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, making life easier for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where are vending machines commonly located in Japan?
Vending machines can be found throughout Japan, including streets, train stations, shopping malls, parks, residential neighborhoods, hiking trails, and remote islands.
Do Japanese vending machines accept cash only, or can you use cards and mobile payments?
Many vending machines in Japan accept both cash and electronic payments, including credit/debit cards, IC cards (such as Suica and Pasmo), and mobile payment systems like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Are there any unique or unusual items available in Japanese vending machines?
Yes, Japanese vending machines are known for offering unique and unusual items, such as fresh eggs, hot soup, flower bouquets, underwear, and even live crabs in some coastal areas.
How often are vending machines restocked with fresh products?
Vending machines in Japan are typically restocked daily or several times a week, depending on location, demand, and product expiration dates, to ensure that customers can access fresh and high-quality items.
Are there any regulations or restrictions on vending machines in Japan?
Yes, vending machines in Japan are subject to regulations and restrictions imposed by local authorities and government agencies, particularly regarding hygiene standards, placement locations, and the sale of certain items like alcohol and cigarettes.
Are vending machines in Japan environmentally friendly?
Efforts have been made to make vending machines in Japan more environmentally friendly, including initiatives to reduce energy consumption, use eco-friendly refrigerants, and promote recycling by installing recycling bins near vending machine locations.
Hi, I’m Aura Ruggeri and I want to make sure that no one makes the same mistake that I did.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Japan anytime soon, do exactly that - plan! Read up on all of the amazing things to do here to make the most of your time. I can bet that you’ll still return home feeling like you could’ve explored much more.
