The Used Tire Mart Sagamihara Store is not just a tire shop; it's a unique cultural phenomenon, a living museum of Japanese vending machine history. Tucked away in Sagamihara, about 40 kilometers from central Tokyo, this unassuming location houses an impressive collection of over 100 vending machines, ranging from vintage models to more contemporary ones. It's a testament to Japan's vending machine culture, offering a quirky glimpse into everyday life and ingenuity.
Visitors consistently praise the sheer variety and unexpected freshness of the items available. Reviewers highlight the novelty of getting hot, freshly prepared food like ramen, udon, and even popcorn from machines that look like they're from another era. The machines are meticulously maintained and regularly restocked, ensuring a surprisingly high quality for vending machine fare. Many find the experience deeply nostalgic and appreciate the opportunity to try unique items not found elsewhere, such as local sake or booklets about the machines themselves. The friendly atmosphere and the dedication of the owner to preserving these machines are also frequently mentioned as positive aspects.
To make the most of your visit, plan to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the machines and trying out a few items. It's highly recommended to bring plenty of 100-yen coins, as many machines only accept them. While there's a coin exchange machine on-site, having smaller denominations ready will save you time. There's limited seating, often just a single bench, so be prepared to stand or eat in your car if you're driving. Visiting during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings, might offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.
Reaching the Used Tire Mart requires a bit of travel from central Tokyo. Take the JR Yokohama line to Sagamihara Station. From there, catch any of the 相21/25/27/28/29 buses to the 相模原浄水場 (Sagamihara Josuijo) bus stop. The store is a short 3-5 minute walk from this stop. Some of these bus lines also connect to the Odakyu line at various stations, offering alternative routes. Driving is often faster, and there is ample parking available at the tire shop. Remember that there is no ATM on-site, so secure cash before you arrive.
A common complaint is the lack of seating, which can be inconvenient, especially if you plan to try multiple food items. To mitigate this, consider bringing a small portable stool or planning to eat in your car. Another minor issue can be the occasional machine being out of order or out of stock, which is to be expected with such a large collection of vintage machines. Patience and an adventurous spirit are key to enjoying this unique destination.
