【Exploring Retro Vending Machines】At "Drive-in Nanakoshi" in Fujioka City, Gunma Prefecture, Delicious Char Siu Ramen

A journey to explore drive-ins in Gunma where you can enjoy game corners and udon, soba, and ramen from vending machines. This time, I visited "Drive-in Nanakoshi" in Fujioka City, Gunma Prefecture, and had delicious char siu ramen from nostalgic retro vending machines.

Go to the retro vending machines & game machines drive-in in Gunma

This time, I came to Gunma in search of a retro drive-in that I noticed and became interested in while on the move. For me, a drive-in with vending machines that offer warm meals and a game corner seems rare, yet for some reason, there are many in Gunma. I would like to investigate what kind of appeal there is by actually visiting.

Arrived at the famous retro vending machine site "Drive-in Nanbokyo"

I have arrived at "Drive-in Nanbokyo" located in Fujioka City, Gunma Prefecture. Despite it being a weekday morning, there are already about 10 customers, making it a popular spot in the area.

The shop is divided into a "meal corner" and a "game corner," creating a spacious and comfortable environment. There are items such as chopsticks, napkins, and a trash bin for leftover soup, showing attention to detail even in self-service.

Trying the Char Siu Ramen from a Retro Vending Machine

I was looking forward to this Char Siu Ramen (350 yen) sold at a retro vending machine. Before leaving, I did some research on the website, and it was said to have a genuine taste with carefully selected char siu, and the quality was unbelievable for a retro vending machine. I immediately made a purchase.

After inserting the coin and waiting for a few seconds, it was ready before I knew it. The soup was clear, and the char siu looked delicious.

Upon trying it, the noodles were thick and had a satisfying bite to them, with a simple and nostalgic flavor. The carefully selected char siu had a taste that would not be out of place in a ramen shop! The flavor and oil from the char siu dissolved into the soup, adding richness. Furthermore, below the noodles were menma and wakame, making for toppings that are hard to believe for just 350 yen! It's no wonder this is so popular.

Drive-in Nanako is a beloved place for the locals, a nostalgic spot that brings peace to the heart.

The game corner also has a retro atmosphere, reminding me of the game corners in department stores and supermarkets where I played as a child. The game corner at Drive-In Nanakoshi is centered around retro game machines, with fewer pachislot machines. On this day, two elderly customers were enjoying the games.

Although I'm not from that generation, there was also an invader game that would likely resonate with those who played it during its prime. The actual operational cabinets are probably quite rare.

Original goods from Drive-In Nanakoshi were also on sale, so I bought a sticker (500 yen). The handmade feel of the logo is cute.

Drive-In Nanakoshi has become a popular spot not only for locals but also for those coming for drives or sightseeing. It particularly seemed to be loved by the elderly who likely visit from nearby areas, and their serious expressions while facing the game screens were quite striking.

Next, I will report on another retro vending machine drive-in.

Reporting and text by Kazuma Tanaka.

Search Retro Vending Machines on Amazon