Big Sound Temple

Ah, what blessed machines. To be found dotted along many a Japanese road, entirely free from the threat of vandalism. The mark of a truly civilised nation. The contents within cost about the same as they do at any one of Japan's eight billion, 24-hour convenience stores. If you're lucky, some machines even serve up a case of beer.

Interestingly, although cigarette machines now demand that a card which proves that the buyer is twenty or over be flashed in front of an electronic 'eye' before the fags can be dispensed, it seems as though anyone can buy booze. I mean, tough luck if you're fifteen and the cops catch you making a purchase - oh boy, are you in deep doodah - but otherwise, nice one. For some reason, underage drinkers frequently consume their intoxicating purchases in temple graveyards. They also tend to smoke, though obviously have to rely on someone supplying them with their 'tabs'.