A man cycles past a vending machine setup at an intersection in Tokyo's Bunkyo district on April 14, 2026. From post offices and parks to stations and even the summit of Mount Fuji, Japan's vending machines are ubiquitous. But with the rapid pace of inflation cooling demand for their drinks, operators are being forced to rethink the business. (Photo by Andrew CABALLERO-REYNOLDS / AFP via Getty Images) / TO GO WITH AFP STORY: Japan-lifestylee-conomy, by Kyoko HASEGAWA