{
  "id": 7142799,
  "title": "7-Eleven Japan’s Ramen Machine is a viral hit, but there’s one glaring problem",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/13/7-eleven-japans-ramen-machine-is-a-viral-hit-but-theres-one-glaring",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-13T17:30:10.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "SoraNews24",
    "slug": "soranews24",
    "url": "https://soranews24.com/2026/09/14/7-eleven-japans-ramen-machine-is-a-viral-hit-but-theres-one-glaring-problem/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "7-Eleven Japan's ramen machines have become an internet sensation, yet there is one significant issue plaguing them. The chain has been pioneering automated machines in convenience stores, offering freshly prepared coffee, tea, and smoothies. However, ramen machines are less well-known, only available at select stores in Saitama Prefecture, just outside of Tokyo. These machines automate the process of turning frozen ramen into piping hot, ready-to-eat meals in mere seconds. In fact, a viral video introduced the concept, garnering over 7 million views. Despite their viral fame, ramen machines remain scarce, with only 40 locations across Saitama Prefecture offering them. The menu has since expanded with Taiwanese Mazesoba and Beef Udon, but the limited availability remains unchanged. The reporter P.K. Sanjun, after trying the machines last December and again in May, encountered an issue he believes may be the reason for their lack of nationwide rollout. Upon purchasing a tub of noodles from the freezer, he found the process intuitive, simply requiring a button press and a short wait. In just under a minute, a steaming bowl of ramen emerged from the machine, showcasing its speed.",
  "summary": "Well, two if you take into account how rare they are to find. 7-Eleven has been forging ahead of the convenience store pack in recent years with its range of automated countertop machines, letting customers whip up their own freshly made coffee, tea and smoothies. While the chain’s drink machines are widely known, not many […]",
  "key_points": [
    "7-Eleven Japan's ramen machines went viral on internet",
    "Only 40 machines available in Saitama Prefecture",
    "Limited availability may hinder nationwide rollout"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}