Japan Vending Machine Guide: What's Inside and How to Use Them

Japan has over 5 million vending machines — one for every 23 people. Here's what you can buy and how they work.

The Basics

How to Use

1. Find a machine — on virtually every street corner
2. Browse the products — lit-up display shows options
3. Insert money — coins or ¥100/¥500 bills
4. Press the button — for your desired drink (lights up when paid)
5. Collect your drink — from the bottom slot
6. Collect change — from the coin return

IC Card Payment

• Look for the IC card logo (Suica/Pasmo symbol)
• Tap your card on the reader
• Select your drink
• Tap again to confirm

What You Can Buy

Drinks (Most Common)

Food (Some Machines)

Other Items (Rare but Real)

Hot vs Cold

In winter, many machines sell hot drinks alongside cold ones.

• Red labels = hot drink
• Blue labels = cold drink
• Some machines have separate hot and cold sections
• Hot drinks are heated to about 55°C — warm but not scalding

Vending Machine Etiquette

1. Don't block the machine — step aside after purchasing
2. Take your change — don't leave coins in the slot
3. Don't litter — find a trash can (usually near the machine)
4. Don't tamper — machines have cameras in some areas
5. IC card only — some machines don't accept cash

Tips

1. IC card is fastest — tap and go
2. Look for limited editions — seasonal flavors are fun
3. Check for discounts — some machines have "2 for ¥300" deals
4. Hot drinks in winter — perfect for cold mornings
5. Beer vending — available 24/7, no ID check
6. Ice cream machines — common in summer, worth trying
7. Free WiFi — some machines offer free WiFi hotspots