Old and wonderfully dated Japanese vending machines

Hello again from Tokyo

Before I get to the main topic. One that it has to be said I have something of an obsession with. I’d just like to mention that my friend Giovanni and I still have a few places left on our November, Autumn Foliage with Urban and Rural Nostalgia workshop. Details are here should you be interested.

I’ve also completely revamped my portfolio site in both looks and content. So if you fancy seeing my photos in a much larger format, then this is the address: https://leechapman.photos

Retro Japanese vending machines

And now, the far more interesting topic of this month’s offering. Old, broken, and for me at least, absolutely fabulous looking Japanese vending machines.

Finding them is always a treat. Their retro looks are the main draw, but there’s also something weirdly endearing about the way they still stand proud despite being long disused and devoid of both power and products. Like loyal sentinels unwilling to give up their posts in case somehow, on some future day, they’ll once again be called upon to dispense their wares.

Most of them I’ve encountered by chance, even a few on my Tokyo Photowalk Tours, but a couple were spotted online and then eventually located. The rusty Coca-Cola machine below being one such case, with the resultant photo requiring a 3 1/2 hour train journey. A bit excessive it has to be said, but at the same time the trek out to see it felt completely worthwhile. Mostly because it looked so good, but also, just like several of these, it has since been removed. Its long, roadside existence now sadly no more.

All of these, just like any of my photos, are available as prints. Knowing what images to offer though is tricky to say the least, so please feel free to get in touch if there’s a specific photograph you’d like printed. That said, these are the current bestsellers from the ones I have chosen to showcase in my shop.

The joy of toast

Lastly, and on a decidedly cheery note, is a machine that has not only survived, but remains in full working order. One of a handful left that still gets restocked daily. And even better. Way better in fact. Is the wonderful detail that it dispenses toast. Not the best toast it has to be said. But still, toast. From a vending machine. How truly marvellous is that?

An unusual, and somewhat soggy bread-based offering that wraps up another newsletter.

Thanks as always for subscribing, and do please spread the word if you enjoy these monthly updates.

Speak to you in the next one.

Cheers

Lee