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Discover Japan’s Hidden Gem for Vending Machine Enthusiasts

Michael Montes03 mins

Discover the Retro Vending Machines of Sagamihara, Japan

A Hidden Gem

Saito, who runs a tire shop, has turned his passion for retro vending machines into a remarkable tourist attraction. His collection boasts 70 machines, and he continually seeks to expand it.

<strong>Sagamihara: </strong>In Japan, a small town has become a surprising tourist attraction thanks to a love of retro vending machines.
Sagamihara: In Japan, a small town has become a surprising tourist attraction thanks to a love of retro vending machines.

The Collection

Saito’s machines offer a variety of products ranging from batteries to children’s toys. However, the most popular selections are for food and beverages.

<strong>The collection:</strong> Saito's machines dispense everything from batteries to kids' toys, but the most popular ones are for food and drink.
The collection: Saito’s machines dispense everything from batteries to kids’ toys, but the most popular ones are for food and drink.

A Visual Journey

The retro charm of these machines captivates visitors, evoking feelings of nostalgia. Many people refer to their experiences here as natsukashii, a term encapsulating nostalgic memories.

<strong>Memories:</strong> Many visitors use the word natsukashii (nostalgic) to explain why they come here.
Memories: Many visitors use the word natsukashii (nostalgic) to explain why they come here.

Quality and Compliance

Due to strict Japanese laws regarding food consumption, some food items found in the machines are prepared fresh. This approach not only adheres to regulations but also guarantees quality for customers.

<strong>Not so fast:</strong> Due to Japanese laws about food consumption, some of the food is prepared fresh and isn't straight from the machine.
Not so fast: Due to Japanese laws about food consumption, some of the food is prepared fresh and isn’t straight from the machine.

A Local Favorite During the Pandemic

During the pandemic, Saito’s outdoor machines became a popular weekend activity for visitors from Tokyo and Yokohama, enhancing their local experience after a challenging time.

<strong>Local oddity:</strong> During the pandemic, his outdoor machines were a fun weekend activity for guests from Tokyo and Yokohama.
Local oddity: During the pandemic, his outdoor machines were a fun weekend activity for guests from Tokyo and Yokohama.

The Future of Vending Machines

Tatsuhiro Saito now employs almost as many individuals to manage the vending machines as he does for his tire shop, reflecting the thriving nature of this unique venture.

<strong>Man behind the machines:</strong> Saito now has almost as many employees managing the vending machines as he does for his tire shop.
Man behind the machines: Saito now has almost as many employees managing the vending machines as he does for his tire shop.


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