10 Most Bizarre Vending Machines in Japan

With 1 vending machine for every 23 people, Japan has one of the highest vending machine densities in the world.

You can hardly walk 100 meters without finding a vending machine in Japan. Japan has a dense population, limited space, and a decreasing number of working-age people. Vending machines have proven to be a convenient solution to the problem. Almost any good you can purchase in a store, you can find in one of Japan’s 6 million vending machines.

Here are some of the more unusual vending machines found in Japan:

1. Lobster vending machine

You can find this in Osaka. Modelled after a claw machine, for a mere 100 yen you can catch your very own fresh, live lobster.

2. Fortune vending machines

These vending machines are commonly found at temples and shrines. They are small slips of paper that presumably tell your fortune (called “omikuji” in Japan). For good luck, omikujis are traditionally tied to trees or pillars.

3. Used schoolgirl panties vending machines

Controversy surrounds the actual existence of these vending machines. It was declared illegal in 1993 to sell used schoolgirl panties in vending machines, yet many locals and travelers claim they still see them around!

4. Flower vending machines

Don’t spend enough time with your wife? Flower bouquets and potted plants are available 24/7.

5. Egg vending machines

Sometimes you just need eggs.

6. Girls phone numbers vending machines

Lonely? You can get single girl’s phone numbers in this vending machine. Now that is a new take on dating. Move over Tinder!

7. Hot meals vending machines

These on-the-go vending machines sell every meal you can possibly think of. Hamburgers, hot dogs, stew, curry, spaghetti, french fries, fried octopus, and the list goes on.

8. Umbrella vending machines

Stuck out in the rain? No stores open? Japan has found a solution. Umbrellas straight from a vending machine. Convenience!

9. Lingerie vending machines

Wedding anniversary? Just want a little spice back in your marriage? In Japan lingerie is wvailable any time you need it.

10. Rhinoceros beetles vending machines

Rhinoceros beetles are very popular pets in Japan. Collecting them and fighting them is a favorite pastime among young Japanese boys. Check out Japanese Bug Fights!

11. Fresh Vegetable Vending Machine

Sometimes you want to whip up a quick meal at night but all the stores are closed! This fresh vegetable vending machine will ensure you can still create that amazing meal, any time of day or night.

Row of vending machines in Japan

Image attribute

Lobster vending machine photo by Gavin Anderson under CC by SA license.

Photo of Fortune vending machine by psd under CC license.

Photo used for Used Schoolgirl Panties vending machine by Meredith P under CC license.

Photo used for Bouquet Vending Machine by catalin82 under Royalty-Free license.

Egg vending machine photo by antjeverena under CC by SA license.

Photo used for Girls’ Phone Numbers Vending Machine by Wickedly Smart under CC by SA license.

Hot Meals Vending Machine by kalleboo under CC by SA license.

Lingerie Vending Machine by w00kie under CC license.

Vegetable Vending Machine via Hikosaemon