Ticket machines at ramen shops: how to order and pay before you sit
At many ramen shops you pay first at a ticket machine near the door, then hand the printed ticket to staff. Have cash ready.
What is happening
Many ramen shops in Japan ask you to pay in advance with a ticket vending machine (called shokkenki, "meal ticket machine"). Japan's national tourism organization says that at some shops you can order from the staff instead, so look around when you walk in.
Some teishoku restaurants (set-meal places) also work in a cafeteria style. You buy a ticket from a machine and pass it to the kitchen staff.
Step by step
- Stop at the machine, usually near the entrance, before you sit down.
- Put in cash.
- Press the button for your ramen. Then press buttons for any extras, such as drinks or side dishes.
- Take your change and the printed ticket.
- Hand the ticket to the staff, then find a seat and wait.
If you cannot read the buttons
Many machines have only Japanese buttons, but most show pictures. Press the picture that looks like what you want.
- If you are not sure, ask a staff member and point at the dish. Staff in busy shops are used to this.
- If you want more food later, you usually buy another ticket.
Money tips
- Keep coins and 1,000-yen bills ready. Some machines may not accept 5,000-yen or 10,000-yen bills. If the machine will not take a large bill, ask the shop to break it.
- Some newer machines accept cards or phone payments, but do not count on it.
- Do not tip. The price on the ticket is all you pay.
FAQ
Can I get a refund if I pressed the wrong button?
Tell the staff right away and show your ticket. It depends on the shop, so be polite and ask.
What if there is no machine?
Then you probably order from the staff and pay after the meal, as in most restaurants.
Do I give the ticket before or after I sit?
This differs by shop. If you are not sure, watch what other customers do, or ask the staff.
Sources
Related tips
- Do you tip in Japan?Short answer: no. Tipping is not expected in restaurants, cafes, taxis or hotels in Japan. Here is when it is fine, and what to do instead.
- Do you need cash in Japan? Cards, IC cards and yenCards of international brands are generally accepted across Japan, but not everywhere. Carry a card, a Suica or PASMO IC card and a little yen.
- Otoshi in Japan: the small dish that appears on your izakaya billAt many izakaya (Japanese pubs), a small dish called otoshi arrives soon after you sit down. You did not order it, but it is usually added to the bill, often around 300 yen per person. Ask before you sit if you are unsure.
- Chopstick manners in Japan: what not to doNever stick chopsticks upright in rice and never pass food from chopsticks to chopsticks. Avoid stabbing food or pointing with them. Small mistakes are forgiven.
- How to use vending machines in Japan: coins, bills and changePut in money, press the lit button, take your drink and your change. Many drink machines take coins and 1,000-yen bills only, so keep small money with you.
- How to buy coffee at a Japanese convenience store (hot and iced)Buy the cup first at the register, then make the coffee yourself at the machine. For iced coffee, take a cup of ice from the freezer. Lawson is different: staff may make it for you.
Last checked: 2026-11-04. Rules and prices can change, so please confirm with the official sources above.