Question
I’m planning a trip to Japan soon and I’ve heard a lot about the famous Japanese vending machines. I want to try buying a drink from one. How do I ask, “How do I use this vending machine?” in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
この自動販売機（じどうはんばいき）はどうやって使（つか）うのですか。
Kono jidouhanbaiki wa dou yatte tsukau no desuka?
How do I use this vending machine?
This is a practical phrase to use when you encounter machines or devices that you are unfamiliar with. Kono means “this”; jidouhanbaiki refers to “vending machine”; dou yatte means “how”; and tsukau means “to use”.
Simply replace jidouhanbaiki with the item you need help with. For example, if you need help with an ATM, you could say “このATMはどうやって使うのですか” (“Kono ATM wa dou yatte tsukau no desuka?”).
Japanese vending machines are found almost everywhere in Japan and sell a wide variety of drinks and snacks. Don’t hesitate to ask for help using the phrase above if needed.
