Japan: Vending Machine Heaven

Above, an assortment of beverages.  Photo by Armand Vaquer.

You've probably heard about how there seems to be a vending machine in Japan located just about anywhere.

That is somewhat true. I've seen some in the middle of nowhere next to a country road with no buildings nearby, just an empty lot with a vending machine sitting there like the Monolith from 2001: A Space Odyssey.

The Japan Times posted an article on vending machines in Japan in April 2007 that is interesting.

Above, a Kirin beer machine in front of Toho Sound Studio in Setagaya.  Photo by Armand Vaquer.

They wrote, in part:

Fancy some fresh eggs and veggies to go with your can of coffee in the morning? Or how about some sake with a steaming bowl of oden (soy-sauce based stew) for an evening enkai (party)?

Who needs restaurants and supermarkets when you can get all you need from vending machines? 

But wait, there’s more. 

How about renting a DVD and watching it at home with your partner? If that’s your takeaway bag, perhaps you shouldn’t forget to buy a pretty bouquet of flowers for your honey, as well — and a pack of condoms, just in case. 

Yes, all these items and many, many more are available from vending machines — except for your home (and honey), of course. 

It is a vending-machine heaven here in Japan. In cities and the sticks, there are machines everywhere, in front of shops, apartments and inside buildings.  

Above, a cigarette vending machine.  Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read the full article, go here.