[Vending Machine Drive-In] A Heartwarming Drive Trip to the "Marumiya Vending Machine Corner" after the Snow Melting.

I visited the Marumiya vending machine corner in Midori City, Gunma Prefecture. There was a wall covered in stickers that tells the story of many travelers' footprints, an abundance of vending machines, and unique, heartwarming services.

The "Marumiya Vending Machine Corner" located in Midori City, Gunma Prefecture with remaining snow

The Marumiya Vending Machine Corner is located in Midori City, Gunma Prefecture. It is situated along National Route 122, which runs alongside the Watarase Valley and has become a popular spot for many drivers and riders.

A few days after the snowfall, there was snow remaining alongside the road, but the road surface was almost dry, making it safe to drive. The Marumiya Vending Machine Corner appears suddenly just around the curve after crossing the bridge. Although I passed by unnoticed during my previous visit, I arrived safely this time as I was more attentive.

Anticipating fewer customers due to the remaining snow, I was surprised to find several vehicles already parked there. It was bustling, mainly with elderly locals.

The stickers covering the windows reveal the popularity and history of this place. There was a welcoming atmosphere for visitors from outside the prefecture, making it easy for first-timers to use.

The retro vending machines are operating energetically and there are many human-like pops

The lineup of vending machines in the store mainly features classic retro items such as toast sandwiches, ramen, udon, and soba. The vending machines are covered with lots of pops, giving them a human-like feel.

Each noodle dish comes with added toppings, and there’s also a "winning" feature. The prizes can include items like shrimp tempura or boiled eggs, adding to the excitement.

The udon and soba vending machine shown in the image has a super spicy version with green chili, and it offers unique menu items that haven't been available at drive-ins before.

Ramen features unique toppings such as char siu ramen and fried chicken ramen. Everything looks delicious, and I find myself torn between options, but since I can’t eat too many, it’s incredibly difficult to decide.

After much deliberation, I chose "Himokawa Udon."

After much deliberation, the choice was "Himo River Udon," which seems to be the only option here. The same goes for ramen, but I am truly impressed by the unbelievably low price of 300 yen in this age of price hikes.

The Nixie tube lamp that lights up when you press the button is still in service; this retro feel is simply the best. I love the atmosphere of this lamp that I learned about during the interview, and I even contemplated buying a Nixie tube clock.

It’s done. Among the options like counter seats and outdoor terrace seats, I will have it at the counter this time. The vending machine also provides chopsticks and shichimi, making the attentive service heartwarming.<

As I lift the smooth Himo River udon with my chopsticks, I can see seaweed and mountain vegetables coming into view from below. There’s also seasoned inari placed in the center, creating a luxurious finish. I slurp the pleasantly textured noodles and gulp down the broth. I am greatly satisfied with the flavors that reflect a commitment to quality.

Even while I was eating, cars kept coming in, making it a very popular spot despite being early afternoon. This day happened to be “Tuesday,” when the roadside station’s cafeteria and restaurants are closed, which might have contributed to it. It was a moment where I truly appreciated the convenience of the 24-hour vending machine drive-in.

The old vending machines only accept 100-yen coins, but the new machines accept bills as well.

In the Marumiya vending corner, items like udon, soba, ramen, and toast sandwiches at the retro vending machines only can take 100-yen coins (be careful as there are no change machines). However, for other drinks and ice cream vending machines, as well as the hamburger vending machine, bills are also accepted. Next, I tried a hamburger.

I have covered several hamburger vending machines, and I chose the "pizza burger," which I had never eaten before. It has a completely unknown taste.

Since the store was getting crowded, I will have it in the car. In addition to pizza sauce, it has cheese and even basil sauce, making it a filling hamburger. The balance of flavors is good, and it's very high quality.

Personally, it was one of the top three tastiest from the hamburger vending machines.

While there are remnants of a retro atmosphere in some areas, the vending machine continues to operate properly, continually satisfying the appetites of the customers coming in. I was impressed by the vending machine drive-in located along a national highway with few traffic signals, where drivers and riders are drawn in.

Reporting and text by Kazuma Tanaka

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