MECHANICAL ENGINEERING HERITAGE NO.50
Ticket Vending Machine
The world’s first multi-function ticket vending machine was developed by the Vending Machine Division of Takamisawa Electric (currently Takamisawa Cybernetics) in 1962. The term ‘multi-function’ indicates that the machine has a printing mechanism, thereby enabling the vending of multiple types of ticket.
This machine, manufactured in 1969, is a model that was mass-produced based on the world’s first technology for multi-functions and is the oldest existing and operable multi-function ticket vending machine. The control unit consists of about 250 relays and the machine also features a unique mechanical coin processing machine. The machines were installed at EXPO Chuoguchi Station of Kita-Osaka Kyuko Railway Co, Ltd. at the EXPO site in 1970 and were taken over by the present-day company and preserved in working condition.
The machine prompted the dissemination of ticket vending machine to stations, etc. of various railway companies thereafter and is a heritage that shows the originality and the excellence of machine technologies.
On exhibition (Reservation required)
Takamisawa Cybernetics Nagano 3rd factory (Engineering Bldg.)
- Hours open:
- 10:00–16:00
- Admission fee:
- Free
- Days closed:
- Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, year-end/New Yearʼs, Bon holidays, etc.
- Address:
- 5662 Taguchi, Saku-shi, Nagano 384-0412
- Tel (exhibit facility):
- +81-267-82-7331
- URL:
- http://www.tacy.co.jp
- Access:
- About 5 mins. by taxi from Nakagomi Sta., JR Komi Line (Yatsugatake Kogen Line) About 15 mins. by taxi from Sakudaira Sta., Nagano Shinkansen Line (Nearest Otabe, Tatsuokajo Stations are unmanned.)