Vending machines are also now considered high art. An image of a snow-covered vending machine by photographer Eiji Ohashi auctioned in London for more than $40,000.

Vending machines are a mainstay of Japanese culture. There are over 5.5 million in the country – one for every 23 people, the highest ratio in the world. They’re ubiquitous and almost always ...

Perfect for when you need to whip up an emergency 12-egg omelet. 6) Oranges While other Japanese vending machines serve up complex meals on-the-go and a wide array of niche products, these orange ...

Food vending machines in Japan reached their peak in 1985 when there were 250,000 across the country, according to the Japan Vending Systems Manufacturers Association.