[rangibaby]

Reasons vending machines are popular in Japan

- they were an easy place to get beer before convenience stores sold alcohol or became open 24/7 (this is a bit before my time so maybe someone else can elaborate)

- a vending machine requires less space than a store.

- there is not a large difference in price buying from a vending machine or convenience store (10 yen or so).

- It is very hot in summer and very cold in winter, so people like having access to a hot or cold drink.

- a lot of people operate on a tight schedule, so their only "free time" might be when they are walking between places (home and train station, train station and work etc)

- vending machines are useful in a disaster. I believe they will give out free drinks in an emergency.

[molsongolden]

Slightly OT but I once had a Japanese vending machine deliver a cardboard can printed with an apology when it was out of the drink I requested.

The can had a plastic lid with coins in it, returning the amount I had deposited, and the cardboard can contained an instant cold pack, presumably to assist me with managing the heat while finding another vending machine.