[anrakushi]

i went with some 19 y/o foreigners clubbing in japan. sometimes they would get in, sometimes they wouldnt. one never got in because he looked every bit 19. the other one looked older like us because he had facial hair and was well built from time in the gym. it will really depend on the club/bar and your appearance. i got asked once within a year but i easily look over age (because i am, haha)

as for vending machines, yes you can buy from them, they are very common. also you could probably buy from the convenience stores without too much trouble. there are so many of them that if you get rejected from one, move onto the next.