Vending machines are everywhere

Vending Machines all over Japan

Japan has the highest number of vending machines in the world, and they're everywhere; on every street corner, inside and/or outside office buildings, outside schools, in train stations, and even in public parks. So, if you're a NIPINO (a Filipino with a Japanese heart), you know what I'm talking about. If not, here are some interesting facts about vending machines in Japan.

According to the Japan Vending Machine Manufacturers Association, although there's been a decrease in numbers over the past 10 years, over 4 million vending machines are in operation as of the end of 2021, still the most in any country by far.

Popular superhero characters on vending machines.

It might be surprising for some to learn that vending machines in Japan sell a wide variety of items, such as hot or cold drinks; snacks; cigarettes; condoms and tampons; flowers; umbrellas; even underwear. It is usual to see food stands with their own vending machines selling drinks. It is also usual for a vending machine to be custom-made for certain locations—an example is the one in the image below that sells adult magazines.

At the center is a vending machine for a "soba" restaurant.

Vending machines also come in different shapes and sizes: small coin-operated dispensers; tall drink dispensers; large cigarette dispensers; glass-fronted refrigerators that offer frozen treats like popsicles or ice cream in cones and cups. Some vending machines even have video screens that play short films while you wait for your drink or snack.

Vending machines for hot and cold goodies.

Japan has been a high-tech country for a long time, so people are accustomed to technology at every turn. The public is generally very comfortable using mobile phones and other devices that make life easier and more convenient, so many people use their phones to pay for items using rechargeable prepaid cards since they're convenient and easy to use.

Vending machine at a kebab store.

As you travel around Japan, you'll find vending machines in the most unexpected places. It’s not surprising to see two or three of them standing side by side in small villages. Whether you're wandering the streets or hiking through historic shrines and temples, there's probably a vending machine nearby that sells something you need or want.

Vending machines are lined up on both sides of a corner.

The Japanese honor system has something to do with the success of these machines, even without being monitored. This is part of a cultural norm: people are more likely to follow the rules when they are used to seeing other people follow the rules. In the case of vending machines, you get what you pay for. For this reason, you may notice that people don't worry about theft as much in Japan.

Japanese society has long been accustomed to the convenience brought about by these machines, and they are a common fixture of daily life for many people. The vending machines in Japan are a great example of how technology can be used to make our lives easier. They're everywhere, they're convenient, and they allow us to get what we need without having to go out of our way or wait in line at a store. There’s probably one near you as you read this blog right now.

A vending machine with an option to pay using one's iphone.

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