Used Panties in Japan: Vending Machines, Fetishes, and Cultural Curiosities

Japan is often associated with unique cultural practices, such as Shibari rope bondage and tentacle porn. Among the most talked-about — and controversial — fetishes in Japanese culture is the sale of used panties. Rumors of vending machines and the rise of online platforms keep this fascination alive and continue to spark curiosity worldwide.

Table of Contents

• Japan Has Vending Machines Everywhere
• Gachapon – The Myth of Used Panties Vending Machines
• Can People Still Buy Used Underwear?
• About Underwear Fetishism
• Types of Women’s Underwear
• Types of Men’s Underwear
• Recommended Product
• FAQs About Used Panties
• Cultural Reflections

The trade of used panties is often associated with fetishism and the lure of quick financial gain, but it comes with significant risks. Potential health concerns, psychological effects, and strict legal consequences make this practice highly problematic. While the fetish itself exists, experts emphasize that buying or selling worn underwear is unsafe and strongly discouraged.

Japan Has Vending Machines Everywhere

Japan is home to over 3 million vending machines, according to the Japan Vending Machine Manufacturers Association (JVMA). These machines generate more than $46 billion annually. While most machines sell drinks, snacks, and newspapers, around 140,000 stock novelties, health products, or adult-themed items. This prevalence helped fuel the rumor of vending machines selling used panties.

Gachapon – The Myth of Used Panties Vending Machines

Gachapon machines are often linked with the sale of used underwear. Their name comes from the sound capsules make when they dispense. While most Gachapon machines offer toys or novelties, rumors in the 1990s suggested that some contained used underwear. Many buyers, unable to fully understand the language, unknowingly purchased “worn” items.

Can People Still Buy Used Underwear

Vending machines that once sold used panties were mostly phased out decades ago, but the fetish itself remains. Japanese law enforcement has since imposed stricter regulations, requiring sellers to provide ID to confirm they are over 18. Today, the trade has largely shifted online, with searches for “Japanese used underwear” generating hundreds of thousands of results. These listings typically feature photos, seller descriptions, and details about the materials or garments offered.

About Underwear Fetishism

Underwear fetishism involves sexual arousal from observing, collecting, or handling underwear — whether new or used. Some enthusiasts enjoy lingerie as intimate objects of desire, while others may find arousal in the association with its wearer. Though it only becomes problematic when it causes harm or distress to others, it remains one of the most widely practiced fetishes worldwide.

Why People Enjoy It

For many, underwear holds symbolic intimacy. From everyday garments like briefs to sensual lingerie from brands like Axami, the association with closeness and secrecy fuels the fetish. Pop culture has even highlighted the practice, such as in “Orange Is The New Black,” where characters ran a scheme selling worn panties to outsiders.

Styles and Preferences

Fetishists may be drawn to specific types of lingerie, materials, or even the idea of an item having been worn. Fabrics like silk, satin, latex, or cotton can influence arousal, as can the style — from thongs to boxer briefs. Other garments such as bras, stockings, or pantyhose may also play into the fetish.

Types of Women’s Underwear

• Briefs
• High-cut Briefs
• Control Briefs
• Boy Shorts
• Hipsters
• Bikini
• Tanga
• Thongs
• G-Strings

Types of Men’s Underwear

• Briefs
• Boxer Briefs
• Mini Briefs
• Open Briefs
• Boxers
• Tangas
• Thongs
• Long Johns
• Mini Strings
• C-Strings

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FAQs About Used Panties

Were used panties really sold in Japanese vending machines?

Yes, but primarily in the 1990s. Most have since been removed due to stricter laws.

Is it legal to buy used panties in Japan?

Yes, as long as sellers are over 18 and transactions follow strict regulations.

Why do people fetishize used underwear?

The intimacy, scent, and symbolic closeness of worn garments often fuel the arousal associated with underwear fetishism.

Can I buy used panties online today?

Yes, online platforms and international sellers now dominate this niche market.

Is underwear fetishism common?

Yes, it’s one of the most widespread fetishes and is considered harmless unless it infringes on another person’s rights.

Cultural Reflections

From vending machine legends to online shops, used panties remain a fascinating cultural talking point. While Japan popularized the concept, underwear fetishism is universal, reflecting how intimate clothing carries layers of meaning. Whether viewed as taboo or curiosity, this niche practice continues to spark debate — balancing between private desire and cultural expression.

Author: The Sexpert is the resident full-time sex blogger. Having successfully managed multiple lifestyle blogs, she now leads Good Girl Guide as chief blogger. She also contributes regularly to Adultsmart’s Sex Toy Blog.