Vending Machines

Vending machines are ubiquitous in Japan, and 20 years ago, jihanki (short for jidouhanbaiki- 自動販売機) selling alcohol were a common sight. However, the number of such machines has dropped significantly over the years in response to efforts to curb underage sales; the machine pictured is the only one of its kind remaining in downtown Niigata. Conversely, a new breed of jihanki offer a variety of food items, as here and here.