There are about 400 unmanned convenience stores across Japan. In Kumamoto, they’re still a rare sight, but I found one at Sakuramachi Bus Terminal, so I decided to try it out for the first time “Old Enough-style”!

Limited Product Range

You can find it near the number 5 bus stop.

I knew of it, but have never used before.

 It says a maximum of three customers allowed inside at once, but having three people inside would make it pretty cramped, and I doubt you’d be able to see all the products. 

We proceed into the shop through the gate labeled “GO”.

You can easily view the store’s products by simply turning around, Surrounded by shelves on three sides.

As soon as you come in, you’ll find the sweets, snacks, and bread on your left.

 Straight ahead at the back are drinks. 

On the right side, you can find a variety of light meals including sandwiches, miso soup, yogurt, and rice balls.

 They seem to sell pretty well! 

 There are no daily necessities or instant noodles, and of course, they don’t have cigarettes either. It’s a convenient and speedy option for those who need a quick bite before heading to work.

The Checkout Process

I’ll grab a bottle of jasmine tea.

I went to the cash register positioned right in front of the exit.

Since there were instructions provided, I thought it would be wise to give them a read, and once placing my items on the counter…

Wow.

 The item just pops up immediately! 

 You can either place your item on the counter or scan the barcode through the reader, and it shows up on the screen.

I chose “cash (現金)” as the payment option.

Simply place the money in the cash register and you’re all set to leave.

 I guess I am “Old Enough” after all! 

You can find plastic bags and single-use chopsticks by the cash register.

Feel free to reach out to the call center if you encounter any issues or have any questions.

Once you’ve paid, the exit door opens automatically. If it doesn’t, there might be an issue with the transaction or a mistake in the accounting. In that case, check again.

 Judging by how quickly the bread and snacks are selling, it seems a lot of people are already using this as if it’s the norm. 

This style of convenience store might start popping up at various train stations and around the city…or maybe they’ll become even more common in the future.

Unmanned Everything

We are not affiliated with Family Mart, but it could be beneficial to familiarize yourself with the concept of “unmanned ________” by frequenting this stores more often.

In the future, we will definitely see the emergence of “unmanned _______”. 

For instance, there will be “unmanned restaurants” where you cook your own meals,
“unmanned hotels” that require you to tidy up your room before leaving,
“unmanned amusement parks” where you must inspect the rides for any issues,
“unmanned adult entertainment” (I cannot provide further details),
and even “unmanned family” where you live alone.
The possibilities are endless. However, personally, I find such a world to be uninteresting.