Just when you think you've seen em all, once you step your foot in the Land of the Rising Sun, shock will be an understatement. In Japan, vending machines are everywhere! Holding the record for the highest number of vending machines per capita, there is at least one machine for every 23 people. According to the Japan Vending Machine Manufacturers Association (JVMA), there are about 5.51 million vending machines in Japan.
You might ask, Why are there a lot of vending machines in Japan? . The main reason is that anybody who has a land and wants to earn from their own business with almost zero percent manpower needed, sticks with the vending machine business. Companies like Coke, Suntory or any other manufacturers will provide you with a vending machine, put it in your land and all you need to do is pay for the electricity. The land owner typically gets 20% (starting) share of the sale cost. It's like setting up a shop of your own. You can decide which products you want the machine to sell and how much each item will be sold for. If you don't have a land, you can make an agreement with someone who owns one and offer them to let you set up a vending machine in their area, given that they will be getting a share of the sale too.
"Vending machines spread in Japan because of people's demand for automation, leaving aside the issue of whether this is good or bad, people clearly want to purchase things without having to talk to others.", said Takashi Kurosaki, director-general of JVMA.
During the Meiji Era (1868-1912), there were already vending machines existing. One of which is the machine that sold a wooden stamp and cards. This antique machine is now displayed in the Communication Museum in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward.
Now that we've got that mystery covered, here now is a list of some of the unique vending machines that you can find in Japan:
Coca-Cola Robot Vending Machine
Now this is innovation! Why go for the boring vending machine when you can instead have a robot vending machine that can walk and talk?
Eggs
You'll never know when you'll run out of eggs for breakfast. This vending machine features farm fresh eggs.
Umbrellas
Forgot to bring your umbrella? Japan's got a solution for you. The umbrellas cost around 400 to 100 yen each, not really cheap, you're paying for the convenience.
Flowers
Strategically located in Tokyo's Shinjuku station, this flower vending machine services 2 million travelers a day. Perfect for those romantic dates or a visit to the hospital.
Necktie Vending Machine
Coffee spilled on your necktie on your way to work? Don't fret, this vending machine offers various neckties that will suit your business suit.
Battery
Ever had those days when you just need a new pair of batteries? This machine's perfect for those days.
Live Lobsters
Modeled after a claw machine, you can catch your family's yummy dinner for a mere 100 yen in this vending machine found in Osaka.
Drinks and Cigarettes
The most common type of vending machines in Japan.
Fortunes
Commonly found in temples and shrines, these machines give out a small slip of paper that tell your fortune. It's like a fortune cookie, but in a machine.
Rice
You can buy up to ten kilo bags of rice in this vending machine that features eight different varieties of rice.
Hot Ramen
Craving for ramen?
Rhinoceros Beetles
These insects are very popular pets with the children in Japan. They collect them and fight them with each other as a pastime.
