Vending machines are easy to overlook until you are thirsty, cold or waiting for a train or bus. Around Hokkaido, you will see machines selling water, tea, coffee and other bottled or canned drinks. Using one is usually simple, even if you do not read Japanese, but it helps to recognize a few labels first.
Step 1: Look before you choose
Look at the drinks in the display window and the price shown under each one. Machines do not all sell the same drinks, and whether a drink is sold hot or cold can change by season and by machine. You may see つめたい (tsumetai) for cold and あたたかい (atatakai) for warm or hot. Blue and red labels are a common clue, but check the printed label rather than relying on color alone.
On a winter walk in Hokkaido, a hot canned drink can be very welcome, but check how hot it is before giving it to a child. Containers can be hotter than you expect.
Step 2: Check how you can pay
Some machines take only coins and ¥1,000 notes. Others also accept compatible transport IC cards, contactless credit cards or specific mobile payment services. The stickers and card reader on the machine itself tell you what works. Do not assume a foreign credit card or mobile wallet will work everywhere.
If you are paying cash, insert the money, press the lit button under your drink and collect it. With cashless payment, you may need to choose the drink and then tap the reader, or tap first, so follow the screen or the instructions on the machine. Collect any change, and check the coin return slot before you walk away.
Step 3: Collect your drink and open it carefully
Most drinks drop into a compartment near the bottom of the machine. Take it out and make sure it is the one you chose. A fizzy drink can spray if you open it straight after the drop, so give it a moment. If the machine does not give you your drink, look for the operator’s contact number printed on the machine. A nearby shop may have nothing to do with it.
Step 4: What to do with the empty container
Some vending machines have a recycling bin next to them for drink containers. That does not make it a general trash can. Sort PET bottles, cans and other waste according to the labels, and never leave food packaging around the machine. If there is no suitable bin, carry the empty container with you until you find one.
When a vending machine is not the best option
If you need a lot of water, a supermarket will usually be cheaper. During winter storms, outdoor machines can be difficult to reach safely. On trips to remote areas, do not count on finding a machine that is stocked and working; bring water and other essentials with you.
Useful words and labels
- つめたい (tsumetai) — Cold
- あたたかい (atatakai) — Warm / hot
- 売切 (urikire) — Sold out
- おつり (otsuri) — Change
- 現金 (genkin) — Cash
FAQ
Can I use Suica or PASMO? Only if the machine shows that it accepts that card or a compatible IC payment network. A card that works on Sapporo transport will not necessarily work at every vending machine.
Are hot drinks available all year? Some machines sell them, but it depends on the season and the location.
Can I leave my empty bottle next to the machine? No. Use a suitable recycling bin or take it with you.
For related advice, see our guides to cash and cards in Hokkaido and throwing away trash in Sapporo.
Official references: JNTO: Cashless payments in Japan · JNTO: Japanese customs and waste-conscious travel
Leave a Reply