Introducing the Unagi Vending Machine

Hello, travelers!
This is Asukarando, your Sarukuma writer.

Today, I’m taking you to one of Kumamoto’s most surprising hidden gems —
located in Ikeda, Nishi Ward, Kumamoto City,
the one and only “Unagi Vending Machine”!

Japan is famous for its quirky vending machines, but this one truly takes the cake — freshly prepared unagi (Japanese freshwater eel), available 24/7!
And believe it or not, you can grab some for just 500 yen (a single coin)! (^з^)-☆

You’ll find it tucked behind the Mega Trial Kamikumamoto store. Search for ‘Wakuwaku Club Co., Ltd.’ on your map app to locate it easily. (^-^)

There are 3 different products on offer.

Unagi Kabayaki (grilled eel with sweet soy glaze): 2,200 yen
Unagi Shirayaki (plain grilled eel): 2,200 yen

Unagi Onigiri (eel rice balls): 2 pieces for 500 yen

So, what kind of eel is it?

The eel inside this vending machine is sourced from ‘Kosa Eel Farm’ in Kumamoto, where the unagi are raised in the pristine spring waters of the Midori River, flowing from the Kyushu Mountain Range. Top-quality stuff! (^-^)

Recommended Item from the Unagi Vending Machine

This time, I picked up:

The single-coin special!

Unagi Onigiri — 500 yen

That’s 2 rice balls for just 500 yen!

Just choose your item, tap the digital screen, and out comes a frozen onigiri.
Take it home, microwave it, and enjoy! (I almost tried to eat it on the spot — oops! (^^;)

Once I got home and unwrapped them, here’s what I saw — one onigiri topped with a whole fillet of eel, and another with finely chopped unagi sprinkled across the top. (^-^)

It even came with a packet of clear soup (osuimono) and tare (sweet soy sauce) plus sansho pepper! (^з^)-☆

The heating instructions were clearly explained. (^-^)

Step 1: Snip a small slit into the onigiri packaging with scissors.

Step 2: Microwave for about 1 to 1.5 minutes.

And voila — done! (^o^)/

So easy! So convenient!

Now, time to dig in!

Itadakimasu!

From the very first bite, the rice — drenched in flavorful eel tare — was absolutely delicious!
Chewy, perfectly steamed, and topped with beautifully fragrant grilled unagi.

The rice had soaked up all the rich aroma and savory flavor of the eel — pure umami magic. \(^o^)/

Even though it’s just an onigiri, the fluffy grilled eel on top is genuinely incredible! \(^o^)/
It almost felt like I was eating Seiro Mushi (steamed eel rice, a famous regional Kyushu dish) — that same rich aroma and tender texture. (^-^)

Let me say it one more time!

2 onigiri for just 500 yen!

That’s a single coin!!!

And the quality at this price? Absolutely top-notch! \(^o^)/

The unagi kabayaki looks just as tempting.
It’s also sold frozen, so don’t worry — clear heating instructions are included. (^-^)

There’s even an order form inside, so you can order more for delivery. (^з^)-☆

The ‘Unagi Vending Machine’ is the perfect way to enjoy authentic Japanese eel without the restaurant prices.
A must-try for travelers and a real treat for hard-working families! (*^^*)

Frequently Asked Questions

※ Information is accurate as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.