Introducing the Pig Trotter Vending Machine

Hello, travelers!

I’m Binako, a writer for Sarukuma, and yes — I run on anime fuel.

Today I’m taking you to one of the most unexpected spots in Kumamoto: the legendary Pig Trotter Vending Machine (Tonsoku no Jihanki), located in Wakaba, Higashi-ku, Kumamoto City.

Walking down Kenkun Shopping Street, you’ll spot a familiar-looking yellow machine just sitting there.

At first glance, it looks like an ordinary vending machine — the kind you’d just walk right past, right?

Wait — what is this?!
A pig trotter vending machine?! Seriously?! I almost slipped into a Kansai accent from the shock.

Right next to the vending machine is Ochaichi Sanyodo, a Japanese tea shop we’ve featured before on Sarukuma.

Ochaichi Sanyodo: Rich, Umami-Packed Green Tea Soft Serve You Have to Try (Higashi-ku Wakaba, Kumamoto)

One pack is sold for 600 yen.
Look at it from the side, look at it from below — there’s no mistaking it: those are absolutely pig trotters.

On the lower row, you can grab two packs for 1,200 yen.
Let me say this upfront: definitely go for the two-pack deal.
If you only buy one, you’ll find yourself thinking, “Ahhh… I should’ve gotten two!”
So trust me — two packs it is.

Alright, time to do what we all know how to do — pop in the coins.

Pick the pig trotter pack you want and press the corresponding number.

“Coming through!”
The pig trotters get carried over inside the machine…

CLUNK!
And they drop right into my hands.

Bonus tip: there are shopping bags placed on top of the vending machine, so taking your trotters home is super easy.

How to Enjoy the Pig Trotters

Now let’s bring these little beauties home and dig in!

First, take out the included sauce packets.

Pop the trotters in the microwave for about 1 minute.

Once heated, drizzle on the included sauce to taste.

Personally, I go all in on the sauce.

Heavy on the pepper, too.

And don’t forget a generous shake of chili.

Done!
Oh wow… these look unbelievably good.

The moment I lift one up to eat it…
the meat is so melt-in-your-mouth tender that the bone literally slides out!

How is this so soft?!
Thank you, pig trotter gods!
— I felt like I needed to bow in gratitude.

From the very first bite, I wanted to shout, “Amazing! Give me another!”

Honestly, this is no longer food — pig trotters are a beverage.
The meat and savory flavor practically dissolve in your mouth before you even have time to chew.

One pack contains two trotters, but one person can easily “drink” two packs in a sitting — so yeah, definitely buy two packs from the start.

Since the machine runs 24 hours a day, you can grab a pack any time — morning, noon, or midnight. Don’t miss this only-in-Kumamoto experience!

Follow our Instagram for daily updates!
Sarukuma shares lunch spots, parks, indoor play areas, and more for families in Kumamoto.
We’d love to have you follow along! (*´∀｀*)

Frequently Asked Questions

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