Acure Apple Juice:

A Vending Machine Favorite Made with 100% Aomori Apples

April 9, 2025

Vending machines in Japan are everywhere—on sidewalks, train platforms, even tucked into alleyways—and with so many options, it can be surprisingly hard to choose something. I usually stick to my go-to tea, but when I’m in the mood for something sweet, there’s one drink I always keep an eye out for: Acure’s apple juice.

What sets this apple juice apart is its simplicity—it’s made with 100% pure apple juice, with no added sugar, preservatives, or artificial flavoring. The only ingredient is apple, and the flavor really speaks for itself. Each bottle is labeled with the specific apple variety used, and the apples are all sourced from Aomori Prefecture, Japan’s most famous apple-growing region.

So far, Acure has released seven different varieties: Fuji, Tsugaru, Orin, Toki, Jonagold, Ringo, and Kiou. According to their own flavor chart, Fuji and Ringo are balanced with both sweetness and tartness. Jonagold and Kiou lean more tart, while Orin and Toki—both green apples—are much sweeter with less acidity. Tsugaru falls right in the middle, with a light, clean flavor that’s neither too sweet nor too sour.

You’ll find these beautifully bottled juices in Acure’s signature white and blue vending machines, often located inside JR train stations or along train lines. Since the lineup rotates seasonally, you may not see all seven at once—but part of the fun is discovering which one is currently available.

If you're looking for something refreshing, local, and uniquely Japanese to try during your visit, this is one of those vending machine finds that's actually worth seeking out.