Japan’s vending machine culture is legendary, but there is a special corner of this retail landscape that captures the hearts of travelers and locals alike: the Pokémon Stand. If you’ve ever walked through Tokyo’s bustling stations or major shopping hubs, you might have stumbled upon a bright, colorful machine featuring Pikachu or other iconic pocket monsters, dispensing exclusive merchandise rather than just cold beverages.

Unlike the traditional soda vending machine that offers a quick hydration break, these machines are strategically placed in high-traffic areas, serving a variety of Pokémon cards for fans who might not have time to visit a Pokémon centre or store that sells rare or unique packs of Pokémon cards.

You can find many in of these Pokémon vending machines in Tokyo, especially in Akihabara, but outside of Tokyo they can be more rare. This one is a new vending machine located on the road near the entrance of Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.

This vending machine sold three different options; two which you had to pay 4000 yen, and one for 2000 yen. They say you will get a minimum of R or RR variety or higher. It was simple to use and I prayed to the Pokémon gods. I went for the 2000 yen option to try get one of those Charizards, but didn't manage to get. I did get a few other nice cards though that I was happy with. Next time I will try one of the 4000 yen options.

Would you try if you could? Which option would you go for? And which card would you like to get?

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