It’s estimated that there are well over 5 million vending machines in Japan. Vending machines in Japan have been around since the 1800s.
While any traveler to Japan is familiar with the standard drink vending machines, there are some very unique machines found all over the country. One example is the egg vending machine, near my apartment in Toyota city.
But on a recent trip to Kyoto, while on the bus heading toward Kamigamo Shrine, I spotted this battery vending machine…
Vending Machines in Japan:
The Battery Vending Machine
Old Battery Vending Machine in Kyoto
In Japanese, vending machine is jidohanbaiki 「自動販売機」.
Many very old machines can be found all over the country. This Toshiba battery vending machine, although it looks a little old, is still full operational, as are many of the old vending machines in Japan.
On your next trip to Japan, keep an eye out for unique machines, you’ll be surprised at what some of them are selling!
Personally, I’m a huge fan of the coffee in a can from these machines. A can usually costs ¥120 and comes in all varieties: hot, cold, black, sweet and more. They’re usually cheaper than in convenience stores, and can be found just about every in Japan.
Japan is chou (very) convenient
This machine is just another example of how Japan is setup for convenience. There are vending machines and convenience stores everywhere. The train systems are super efficient and take you all over the country. Delivery services will take your luggage to the airport.
