Transcending Time: The Charm of Japan’s Retro Vending Machines Captivates Foreign Tourists!
I came across a news piece highlighting the popularity of Japan’s vintage vending machines among foreign tourists. I found it fascinating and wanted to share.
Back in the 1970s, spots selling food and drinks through vending machines, known as “Auto Restaurants” and “Auto Parlors,” were in vogue. I wasn’t born then, so I don’t have firsthand knowledge. It was a time when road infrastructure improved, car travel increased, and there was a surge in long-haul trucks operating through the night.
For professional drivers working at night, vending machines offering warm meals 24/7 were installed alongside national roads. They dispensed udon, soba, hamburgers, and bento boxes. Since these were vending machines, no staff was present. Japan has always had unmanned stores, made possible by its excellent public safety.
However, from the 1980s to the 1990s, 24-hour convenience stores and family restaurants proliferated, leading to a decline in these vending machine corners. One reason was that once they broke down, repairs were challenging and skilled technicians became scarce.
A company emerged, repairing these abandoned vintage vending machines and resurrecting the “Auto Restaurant” concept. This company, “Tire Ichiba,” deals with used tire sales and wheel repairs.
The initiative began when the company’s president, as a hobby, collected and restored vending machines, including those dispensing popcorn and bottled cola. The idea was for customers to enjoy these machines while waiting for tire replacement services. They began installing these retro vending machines in 2017.
Starting with just a few, the number of retro vending machines quickly grew, surpassing 40 by spring 2020. Their arrangement expanded from one row to two.
Most of these machines hail from the Showa era, having been used for 30 to 40 years. Many frequently break down, and finding parts is a challenge. Yet, they’re restored using unique techniques. The oldest machine dispenses Lotte “Chewing Gum” and was manufactured in 1960.
During the pandemic, these unmanned vending machines offering warm meals became incredibly popular. Now, they have a total of 112 machines dispensing soba, udon, hamburgers, snacks, and bottled drinks.
Media coverage has increased, attracting visitors from all over Japan. Currently, they’re a hit among foreign travelers too.
Many are amazed by the vending machine’s ability to deliver warm food in just 30 seconds. Others marvel at the variety and assortment offered. Some simply enjoy the nostalgia associated with these vintage machines.
It’s definitely worth the visit! I want to go!
Tourist attraction locations
It’s just an hour’s drive or an hour and a half train ride from Tokyo.
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