Myths and truths of Japanese vending machines - Part 2

Husky & Onigunsô
Apr 3, 2020
3 min read

Updated: 21 minutes ago

A Perversion in the Force - Used Panty Vending Machines

Part one of this blog series introduces the history of Japanese vending machines.

Before the Internet, rumors took longer to spread, but rumors also took hold on a whole other level. Who hasn't heard the story about vending machines selling used women's underwear? So famous did this «rumor» become that today you will find novelty machines selling factory-made «used underwear» in Tokyo.

The economic boom in Japan led to extreme excess. At times, Japanese pop culture and fashion could be described as gasoline on the fire of 1980s flamboyance. That some kinky company saw it fit to make a perverted vending machine is perhaps not so far-fetched?

«It caused an uproar among concerned parents of panty-selling teenagers.»

According to reasonably reliable sources (listed below), said kinky machine did see the light of day, but not until the early 90s. At the time, it caused uproar among concerned parents of panty-selling teenagers. Ten years later, the Tokyo government passed a regulation that criminalized the trade of used underwear by underage individuals.

This government action might substantiate the myth of the panty-vending machine. Alternatively, it may be that a novelty item sparked the rumor in the first place. We might never know. At least the old chicken-or-egg question got an updated twist for future generations: What came first, the rumor of dirty panty machines, or novelty panties?

Japanese Vending Machines of Today

In our day and age, Japanese vending machines have become a part of daily life in Japan. On overheated summer days, you can count on the nearest vendor to re-supply your Pocari Sweat tank. On busy mornings, the automated clerks are always there to serve you a quick coffee on the go. And should you feel adventurous, you can always find some limited and new flavors for your taste buds.

In rural areas or on desolate streets, the vending machines might be far apart, but in central regions, they are as dependable as the rising sun. And since most populated areas in Japan are as crowded as any central area in my own country of Norway, by «central area» in this context, I mean everywhere.

Train stations, subways, airports, taxi stops, shopping centers, amusement parks, parking lots, playgrounds, and parks are never without a vending machine. Also, on the way to the top of Mount Fuji, you can find vending machines selling soft drinks and small oxygen tanks for those who struggle with thin air.

In short, these automated clerks have become as reliable as any human substitute. They are always there to lend a helping hand. Umbrella vendors will help you when rainfall strikes. Soup stock vendors are available when you forgot to pick up some «dashi» at the supermarket. When in need, Japanese vending machines are ready to serve.

Part three of this blog series dives into the moral aspect of keeping Japanese vending machines on the streets of Japan.