TOKYO: US startup Yo-Kai Express Inc. on Wednesday announced the launch of operations of vending machines that serve fresh-cooked ramen noodles in Japan.

The company initially installed three such vending machines at such facilities as Tokyo’s Haneda Airport and Tokyo Station, planning to set up more at highway rest stops, hospitals and universities later.

Customers order ramen from the menu on the vending machine’s touch screen, and hot ramen can be made in as little as 90 seconds.

Andy Lin, founder and CEO of Yo-Kai Express, said at a launch event at Tokyo Station that Japan is a key market because the country is the birthplace of authentic ramen.

The company’s vending machines in Japan accept only cashless payments and serve four types of ramen, costing ¥790 yen each. In addition, two types of ramen from the Ippudo popular chain will be available.

Established in 2016, Yo-Kai Express runs vending machines at some 50 locations in the United States, including at commercial facilities, factories and company offices, serving over 200,000 meals so far.

It plans to operate vending machine businesses in Taiwan, South Korea and Europe.

JIJI Press