Tokyo's Cold Stone vending machine replaces the ice cream chain, raising questions about quality.

Cold Stone has closed all branches in east Japan, but a vending machine at Meidaimae Station still sells its ice cream.

The American ice cream chain Cold Stone has closed all its branches in east Japan, leaving fans in Tokyo heartbroken. The last shop in Sano closed shortly after the final Tokyo branch on April 28, leaving only one location at Mitsui Outlet Park Jazz Dream Nagashima in Mie Prefecture, about three hours away by Shinkansen. But wait! Ice cream lovers can still get their fix at a Cold Stone vending machine located at Meidaimae Station, just 10 minutes from Shibuya.

This vending machine is part of a group on the platform of the Inokashira Line, easily accessible without needing a separate ticket. It offers four flavors: Strawberry Pinky Cake, Warabimochi Wa La Mode, Chocolate Mint Lovers, and Asai Bowl Ice, priced between 500 and 600 yen. Our intrepid reporter, Ikuna Kamezawa, tried to grab her favorite, but ended up having to return the next day for the Strawberry Pinky Cake. When she finally got her hands on it, she found a satisfying mix of frozen strawberry slices, sponge cake, and whipped cream, with a surprisingly light texture that felt like mousse. While it wasn't the same as the in-store experience, it was a sweet win for a quick treat without the long trek to Mie!

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