June 1 - Nowhere else in the world has so many vending machines as Japan - nor ones with such diverse uses. In fact, according to Wikipedia, Japan has the world's highest number of vending machines per capita, about one for every 23 people.

We have all become used to these convenient devices. At the train station, we can insert a bill, push a few buttons, and purchase a ticket to our destination. When thirsty we can find a refreshing drink; when hungry a snack; and when a battery expires in the middle of the night, we can even find a battery vending machine. I thought I would talk to you about three unique vending machines that provide me with a fun memory of Japan.

I saw the first one several years ago when Ann and I visited Zenko Temple in Nagano City. This historic spot was the last place I expected to find vending machines. Yet the temple, as stately and ancient as it is, had entered the modern age. We purchased our tickets at a vending machine. But what surprised us even more were the vending machines that sold protective amulets. It seemed very strange to purchase a traffic safety amulet without any contact with a human being.

The second memorable vending machine is perhaps the most famous one among foreigners in Japan - the draft beer machine at the Star Alliance waiting lounge at Narita airport. To sip a beer, you place a chilled glass on a carefully marked circle. After you press a button, the machine automatically tilts the glass as the foamy beer emerges from the spigot. As the glass fills, the machine slowly reduces the angle of the tilt to leave a perfect amount of head on each beer. A barmaid could scarcely do a better job. I cannot tell you how many times I have talked to Americans who ask me, "Have you had the beer at Narita airport?"

My absolute favorite vending machine in Japan, however, is the fresh-brewed coffee machine in the basement of the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo. First, one selects the size, then the type of coffee bean - my favorite are Kilimanjaro beans from Kenya - then the amount of cream and sugar. After making all of these choices, one can see on a small television screen how the beans drop into the grinder, then the grinding process itself, then the hot water being poured into the container to brew the coffee. Brewing the perfect cup of fresh coffee takes some time, so the machine plays a cheerful tune, and a series of lights and a timer inform the customer of the progress. Finally, when the coffee is ready, one can watch the coffee dripping into the cup. A small plastic arm moves a lid into position and screws it into place on top of the cup. Then the coffee moves along a small conveyor belt to a place where one can reach it.

When we have visitors to the American Embassy, I often encourage them to purchase a coffee at this vending machine in order to learn about Japanese technology and customer service. They are always impressed.

Until next time,

Jim