Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Vending Machines |

When traveling in Japan, you will quickly notice something unique: vending machines are everywhere.
From busy city streets to quiet countryside roads, Japanese vending machines are an essential part of everyday life—and a surprisingly helpful tool for travelers.

Why Are Vending Machines So Common in Japan?

Japan has over 5 million vending machines, one of the highest numbers per capita in the world.
There are several reasons why they are so widespread.

Safe and Secure Environment

Japan is known for its low crime rate.
Because vandalism and theft are rare, vending machines can safely operate outdoors 24 hours a day—even in remote areas.

Convenience Comes First

Convenience is deeply valued in Japanese culture.

No need to enter a store
Available 24/7
Quick and easy to use

For commuters, travelers, and late-night needs, vending machines are the fastest solution.

Reliable Technology

Japanese vending machines are well maintained, rarely broken, and frequently restocked.
You can usually trust that they will work exactly as expected.

What Can You Buy from Japanese Vending Machines?

Most vending machines sell drinks, but the variety may surprise you.

Water, tea, juice, soda
Hot canned drinks (coffee, tea, milk tea)
Ice cream
Snacks
Alcohol (in some locations)
Regional and seasonal products

The selection often changes by season and location.

“Atatakai” and “Tsumetai”: Hot or Cold?

Japanese vending machines clearly indicate whether a drink is hot or cold using friendly Japanese expressions.

あったかーい (Atatakai) – Hot

This label means warm or hot.

You’ll often see it on:

Canned coffee
Hot tea
Milk tea
Lemon drinks

Hot drinks are usually available from autumn through early spring.

つめたーい (Tsumetai) – Cold

This label means cold.

Common cold drinks include:

Bottled water
Iced tea
Juice
Sports drinks

Cold drinks are available year-round, especially popular in summer.

Easy Visual Clues

Even without reading Japanese:

Red or orange labels usually mean hot
Blue labels usually mean cold
Some machines clearly show HOT / COLD in English

In some cases, the same drink is available in both hot and cold versions depending on the season.

How to Use a Vending Machine in Japan

Using a vending machine is simple, even if you don’t speak Japanese.

Choose the item you want
Insert cash or use a cashless payment
Press the button
Pick up your item from the tray at the bottom

That’s it.

Paying at Japanese Vending Machines

Paying with Cash

Many vending machines still accept cash.

Coins: ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, ¥500
Bills: usually ¥1,000

Small coins like ¥1 and ¥5 are often not accepted.

Cashless Payment

Cashless options are becoming increasingly common, especially in cities.

IC cards (Suica, PASMO, ICOCA, etc.)
Credit cards
QR code payments

Just tap or scan to pay.

Where Can You Find Vending Machines?

Japanese vending machines are located almost everywhere:

Train stations
Sidewalks and street corners
Outside hotels
Near temples and shrines
Along rural roads and countryside areas

Even in places with few shops, vending machines are often available.

Why Vending Machines Are Perfect for Travelers

For foreign visitors, Japanese vending machines offer many advantages:

Easy to use
Language-friendly displays
Available 24/7
Useful in remote areas

They are a small detail, but one that perfectly represents Japan’s culture of safety, comfort, and convenience.

How to Order Famichiki: Japan’s Famous Convenience Store Fried Chicken

Differences and characteristics of Japanese beer

Why Tsunamis Are So Dangerous – And How to Stay Safe

Beverage

Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Vending Machines