There is something about milk in Japan that hits different for me, especially when it comes in a glass bottle from a vending machine!
Japan’s milk vending machines are somewhat of a rare find compared to the standard soft drink, coffee, and tea ones. I was fortunate to spot one at the base of Mt. Hiei before embarking on my hike to the summit. This vending machine had a bit of a vintage look with a wooden exterior and a numbering pad, not to mention cash-only. Before me was an incredible display of various milk drinks from pure creamy milk to fruit smoothies and coffee mixes.
Can’t Go Wrong With The Classic!
The Shiro Bara or “White Rose” brand is a premium producer of Japanese dairy, known for quality milk featuring a rich taste and creamy texture. When drunk out of a cold glass bottle, the experience is amplified greatly, and you’ll find yourself sipping relentlessly on this heavenly beverage. I’m not sure why, but Japanese milk seems to be free of the nasty aftertaste that I so often experience with Western milk.
Easy To Drink & Dispose
These super cheap drinks come at a price range of 120-150 yen each, and there’s enough variety to keep everyone happy! Easy to peel, easy to drink, and easy to dispose of in the accompanying glass bottle bin, these milk vending machines make it easy to enjoy milk on the go, especially in Japan, where drinking while walking is a no-no!
Milk With The Boys!
If you’re having a drink before a long hike, I’d recommend the coffee milk for that caffeine hit! Perhaps on the way down, you can rejuvenate yourself with a pure white milk drink to prepare you for a good night’s sleep and recovery. This particular machine at Hieizan’s base had plenty of seating and other vending machines to enjoy your refreshments with your companions.
To learn more about life in Japan, check out my book: The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection. This book features my most profound observations of Japanese culture and society as a foreign resident. Available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Grab your copy today!