One of the things that usually surprises visitors to Japan is the number of vending machines in the country, estimated to be more than 5.5 million— one for every 20 people. They're virtually everywhere—in train stations, in front of shops, on the back streets of residential neighborhoods. Most will take bills and give back change. Many have almost nonsensical English-language promotional lines on them, such as ENJOY REFRESHING TIME. Some will even talk to you. And what can you buy in these vending machines? First, there are the obvious items—drinks and snacks, including hot or cold coffee in a can. But if you're on your way to someone's house, you might be able to pick up a bouquet of flowers from a machine. Your CD player is out of batteries? You will be able to find those, too, along with CDs, film, disposable cameras, sandwiches, and even eggs. Vending machines outside post offices sell stamps and postcards, while those in business hotels sell razors, cup noodles, beer, and even underwear. Still, if it's available in Japan, it's probably in a vending machine somewhere.