Vending machines are everywhere in Japan. With nearly 4 million units nationwide, you’ll find them on street corners, inside train stations, at the base of mountains, and even in remote countryside towns. At first glance, they may seem like a simple way to grab a quick snack or drink—but a closer look reveals an incredible world beyond soda and candy.
Japanese vending machines reflect the country’s unique blend of innovation, efficiency, and playfulness. For first-time visitors, discovering something unexpected in an ordinary vending machine can be a delightful surprise. Here are 8 unique and quirky items you can actually buy from vending machines across Japan.
Things you might be surprised to find in Japanese vending machines
Canned bread: a ready-to-eat curiosity
Yes, bread in a can. Canned bread has a long shelf life and comes in various flavors like chocolate chip, coffee, or fruit. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and often considered a fun emergency food or novelty souvenir. You can find vending machines selling canned bread in places like Inokashira Park in Tokyo.
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Hot meals: a warm surprise on the go
In a rush and hungry? Some vending machines in Japan serve hot meals like udon noodles, curry rice, or even hamburger steak. These retro machines heat up pre-cooked meals, ready in just minutes. One nostalgic hotspot where you’ll find them is the “Used Tire Market” in Gyoda, Saitama. The owner has an astonishing number of vending machines lined up. If you’re looking for something in Tokyo, you can also try Japanese oden hot stew in a can in Akihabara.
Umbrellas: convenience for rainy days
Especially during the rainy season, vending machines that sell umbrellas can be a lifesaver. Found near train stations and tourist spots, these machines usually offer clear and sturdy umbrellas.
SIM cards: Stay connected instantly
Forgot to buy a SIM card at the airport? No worries—SIM card vending machines are conveniently located at places like Kansai International Airport and Haneda Airport in Tokyo. They often come with English instructions and are ready to use right out of the machine.
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Fortune slips: a traditional twist
Traditionally drawn at shrines, omikuji (Japanese fortune slips) can now be found in vending machines. Whether it’s love, health, or career, the slip gives a glimpse into your fortune. A unique vending machine shrine is located in Natori City, Miyagi Prefecture.
Mystery boxes: What will you get?
Mystery box vending machines are all about fun and curiosity. Pay a fixed amount and get a random item, ranging from toys and snacks to quirky gadgets. “King’s Treasure Box” machines are popular in urban areas like Shibuya, Tokyo.
Alcoholic drinks: sake to go
Yes, you can buy ready-to-drink cocktails like chūhai (shochu highballs) and sake from vending machines in Japan. These machines usually have age-verification systems and are commonly found in hotels, inns, and internet cafés.
Emergency goods: Just in case
In a country known for disaster preparedness, vending machines offering emergency supplies are a logical step. One such machine has been installed on the 4th floor OCAT (Osaka City Air Terminal) as part of a comprehensive partnership between Osaka Prefecture and Earth Corporation. These machines provide hygiene items (such as mouthwash, hand sanitizer, masks, and portable emergency toilets), emergency food (nutritional energy bars), and drinks (mainly for electrolyte replenishment and hydration).
Final thoughts
In Japan, vending machines are more than just a way to grab a quick snack—they’re tiny cultural ambassadors. From canned bread and fortune slips to skincare products and mystery boxes, they offer travelers a window into the unexpected and whimsical sides of everyday life.
Whether you’re looking for a practical item or hoping to stumble upon something surprising, Japan’s vending machines invite you to explore with curiosity. They’re proof that even the most ordinary things—like buying something from a machine—can become part of an unforgettable adventure.
