As a Japanese, I have no surprise but you would be; to see the abundance of vending machines in Japan. From busy streets in Tokyo to quiet rural towns, vending machines are everywhere. You can get not only what you drink, but also something to eat, cigarettes, etc. They’re convenient, safe, and open 24/7, making them a great help during your trip. In this guide, you’ll learn how to use them, what you can buy, and a few tips to avoid trouble.
Quick Introduction
Hi everyone. I am Yuki from Japan. As you can guess I am Japanese living in Tokyo. With my experience being Japanese-English translator/interpretor, I usually write a Japanese blog to support English learners. Here in this blog for English speakers, I would like to further utilize my knowledge as a “National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter” and to introduce and share my knowledge that are related to Japan and hope that some of them will be helful for your travel to Japan!
Basics of Japanese Vending Machines
- Japan has over 4 million vending machines, one of the highest numbers in the world.
- They are reliable and safe thanks to Japan’s low crime rate.
- You can find them not only in cities but also near stations, tourist spots, and even countryside roads.
You can see in the picture above, it’s only 20 meters from where I live. There’s another one behind this building, and then another just five steps away…
You don’t need to worry about getting thirsty while walking in the street on a hot summer day – just buy a cold beverage whenever you feel like it.
How to Use a Vending Machine
- Insert money (coins or ¥1000 bills; some machines accept IC cards or mobile payment).
- Press the button for the item you want (check for the “sold out” light).
- Collect your drink or item from the tray.
- Don’t forget to take your change!
Once you’ve done it once, it’s very easy.
Cash type:
Usually 10, 50, 100, 500 yen coins and 1,000 yen bills (sometimes 5,000 and 10,000yen too) are accepted.
Cashless type1: Transportation IC card
Transportation pre-paid card (“交通系(Kotsu-kei)” IC card) such as SUICA or PASMO are accepted in this type of vending machine.
There is “Welcome Suica” for you visitors.
You can refer to the JR website: Welcome Suica | JR-EAST
Cashless type2: Hybrid type
In addition to transportation cards, this type also supports a range of cashless payment options, including nanaco (often used in Seven-Eleven stores), Rakuten Pay, Alipay, QuickPay, and others.
Types of Vending Machines in Japan
- Drinks: tea, coffee, juice, water, even hot drinks in winter and cold ones in summer.
- Snacks & food: ice cream, cup noodles, bread, and chips.
- Unusual items: umbrellas, masks, batteries, fresh fruit, even regional specialties
Trying different machines can be part of your travel adventure!
Drinks
Cold and hot products are easily distinguished by the blue (cold) or red (hot) indicator displayed below them.
In the image below, you’ll notice that the top and middle shelves hold cold products, while the bottom shelf features hot products.
The images below show cold teas, indicated by a blue tag that reads ‘つめた～い (Cold)’. Hot products are marked with a red tag that says ‘あたたか～い (Hot).
Snacks
The selection is diverse. One such item, pictured below, is PANCOPPE – a frozen bread with a sweet cream filling.You can eat it frozen as soon as you buy it, let it thaw a little, or even toast it when you get home – it’s delicious any way!
Tips to Avoid Trouble
- Check the “sold out” lamp before pressing the button.
- Don’t forget your change.
- If your bill doesn’t go in, try a cleaner one (wrinkled or wet bills often fail).
- Some older machines only take coins.
This isn’t just about vending machines, but also other situations… I recommend carrying some cash (coins and bills) when traveling in Japan. Many stores and restaurants still don’t accept credit cards. (I find this convenient when traveling abroad, though.)
Extra Traveler-Friendly Facts
- Vending machines are open late at night when shops are closed.
- Some machines provide free drinks during emergencies or disasters.
- Compared to many countries, they are rarely damaged or vandalized, so you can use them safely.
Useful Japanese Phrases at a Vending Machine
If you face a problem, these simple Japanese sentences can help:
- 「使い方がわかりません。」 Tsukaikata ga wakarimasen. (I don’t know how to use it.)
- 「お金が入りません。」 Okane ga hairimasen. (My money won’t go in.)
- 「お釣りが出ません。」 Otsuri ga demasen. (I can’t get my change.)
- 「売り切れですか？」 Urikire desu ka? (Is it sold out?)
- 「電子マネーは使えますか？」 Denshi manē wa tsukaemasu ka? (Can I use electronic money?)
Just saying these phrases can make it easier for locals to understand and help you.
Conclusion
Japanese vending machines are more than just a place to buy drinks — they’re part of the travel experience. With a little knowledge and a few Japanese phrases, you’ll be ready to use them with confidence. Next time you’re thirsty or curious, try one out and enjoy the surprise!
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