Even before coming to Japan, many people know about the abundance of vending machines in Japan, something which is taken to new heights in Tokyo itself — you're likely only ever a few steps away from seeing your next vending machine.
However, not all vending machines are created equal. While some will quench your thirst on a hot day or warm you up on a cold day, others are designed for a different purpose. For example, you can buy entire meals, purchase idol group photo cards and win random prizes, but we’re getting ahead of ourselves…
What’s so special about Japanese vending machines?
Well, for one thing, they’re absolutely everywhere. From the brightly lit streets of all major cities to the lesser-traveled paths of remote mountains and snow-covered villages, it’s rare to ever find yourself too far from the convenience of the Japanese vending machine.
For another, Japanese vending machines have an ever-changing selection of drinks and snacks on offer, changing based on trending or seasonal flavors and even offering hot drinks and soups during the colder months.
But we’re not here for the more common vending machines, are we? Let’s get into the weird and wonderful with some of Tokyo’s most unique vending machines.
8 unique vending machines in Tokyo
- Niku No Mansei pork cutlet sandwich
- Yakitori in a can
- Oden in a can
- Ice crepe (frozen crepe)
- Random prizes
- Hanko stamp seal
- Idol cards
- Pom juice
1. Niku No Mansei pork cutlet sandwich vending machine
Wandering the streets of Tokyo and craving a tonkatsu pork cutlet sandwich? We’ve all been there, but we haven’t all been to the Niku no Mansei Vending Machine, a vending machine in Chiyoda where you can get a fully made sandwich and be on your way.
According to our expert host Shizuka, it’s a little dry — as you might expect from a sandwich served from a vending machine — though it might save you from “hanger” if you’re exploring the city on an empty stomach.
2. Yakitori vending machine
Over in Shizuka’s “creepy vending machine corner,” a run-down corner of the city that seems destined to collect the weirdest vending machines in Tokyo, you can taste the tinned delights of yakitori in a can.
Don’t get your hopes up too high, though; described as “very gooey,” “okay” and “not as bad as I expected,” you might want to buy a drink from one of the more common vending machines nearby. Even so, it’s an experience not everyone can say they’ve had.
3. Oden vending machine
Next to the yakitori vending machine in this slightly downtrodden hideaway of Tokyo is another must-try culinary experience: oden in a can. The rave reviews for this tantalizing tinned creation are saying it’s “fine… if you can get past the fact that it’s room temperature.” How could you resist after an endorsement like that?
For a closer look into the vending machine mysteries of “creepy vending machine corner,” watch our previous video with Shizuka!
4. Ice crepe vending machine (frozen crepe)
Located on a much less creepy, more brightly lit street next to Akihabara Station is the frozen crepes of this Seven’s Crepe vending machine, known as “ice crepes” in Japan. You can purchase a range of flavors, including banana and chocolate, almond and chocolate, and strawberry.
According to the vending machine, you’ll want to wait 15 minutes before eating your frozen crepe, allowing your chosen crepe to defrost just enough to still be cold while gaining a chewy texture.
5. Random prize vending machine
Right next door to the frozen crepe vending machine is the King’s Treasure vending machine, opening you up to a game of chance that’s also a perfect way to pass some time while you wait for your frozen crepe to thaw.
For a mere ¥1,000, you could win all sorts of prizes, ranging from trading cards and accessories to big-ticket items like a Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. Warning: Shizuka won an unwanted Hello Kitty face guard, so it’s not guaranteed that your ¥1,000 will be money well spent, but isn’t that part of the fun?
6. Hanko stamp seal vending machine
Have you ever heard of a hanko? In Japan, a hanko is a stamp that works similarly to a signature in the West, used to sign official documents. These hanko are usually your surname and must be officially recognized before you can use them on documents, but the less official versions also make great omiyage souvenirs.
And that’s where this hanko stamp seal vending machine comes in, allowing you to create your own stamp in 10 minutes for ¥1,000. Add your name, choose your design and you’ll have your very own stamp in record time.
7. Idol cards vending machine
Japan has a thriving idol culture and one of its most well-known idol groups — and definitely the largest! — is AKB48, a girl group that originated in Akihabara and originally had an impressive 48 members.
At this idol cards vending machine, you can buy something known as photo cards, depicting each member of the group. They vary in price depending on the popularity of the member and the rarity of the card, but you could also go all out with the full set of 100 photo cards for ¥1,000.
If you and a friend are fighting over which idol cards you want more, move the battle over to the retro Street Fighter arcade machine in the same area. Ready, set… Fight!
8. Pom orange juice vending machine
After all that fighting, you’re sure to be thirsty, so make your way over to this Pom orange juice vending machine. Filled with orange juices from all over Japan, including some interesting orange jelly drinks for good measure, you’ll likely discover your favorite region for Japanese oranges if you try a few.
Tokyo bike tour with an unusual vending machine!
For a unique way to see the city, join this Tokyo bike tour — starting and ending in the trendy neighborhood of Meguro — and see a few must-see attractions along the way, including the Meguro Parasitological Museum!
From there, cycle through a local park and keep your eyes open for an unusual vending machine. We won’t be telling you what it’s selling, but since you’re all about trying out Tokyo’s weirdest vending machines, don’t you want to find out?
Book your spot on this Tokyo bike tour!
Not quite got your fill of Japan’s unique vending machine culture yet? You’re in luck — there’s one more vending machine video you can watch!
Vending machines in Japan FAQs
Are vending machines popular in Japan?
Oh, without a doubt! Vending machines are practically everywhere in Japan, from bustling city streets to remote countryside areas.
What kind of items can I buy from vending machines in Japan?
Think beyond just sodas and snacks. You can find vending machines that sell everything from hot drinks and ice cream to fresh fruits, umbrellas and electronics. Not to mention all the weird vending machines we showed you above!
How do I use a vending machine in Japan if I can't read Japanese?
Most vending machines in Japan have pictures of the items they sell, making it easy for non-Japanese speakers to make a selection. Just look for the item you want and press the corresponding button.
Do vending machines in Japan accept credit cards?
While some vending machines in Japan do accept credit cards, the majority still operate on a cash-only basis. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for your vending machine adventures.
Many vending machines also accept travel cards these days, meaning you can tap your Suica or Icoca card and it’ll automatically deduct from your remaining balance.
Are there any seasonal or limited-edition items sold in vending machines in Japan?
Absolutely! Keep an eye out for seasonal treats like sakura-flavored drinks in spring or hot drinks in winter. Limited-edition collaborations with popular brands or characters are also common, adding a fun element of surprise to your vending machine encounters.
