Ukishima-dori
Okinawa's vibrant main street, buzzing with shops, restaurants, street food, and lively entertainment.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
Ukishima-dori
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Okinawa's vibrant main street, buzzing with shops, restaurants, street food, and lively entertainment.
"A 2km to 3km long of shopping street in Okinawa, which houses a lot of shops selling souvenirs and local delicacy."
🎯 Explore the Side Streets
Venture off the main drag to discover hidden gems, unique shops, and local eateries.
🦞 Market Fresh Seafood
Pick your own seafood at Makishi Market and have it cooked upstairs for an unforgettable meal.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kokusai-dori Shopping Street
Okinawa's premier shopping boulevard, buzzing with souvenirs, local delicacies, and vibrant street life.
Makishi Public Market
Adjacent to Kokusai-dori
A sensory feast! Select fresh seafood and enjoy it prepared upstairs – a true Okinawan culinary experience.
Shisa Statues
Throughout Kokusai-dori
Spot these iconic Okinawan guardian lions, often towering and perfect for a memorable photo op.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bustle
Market Marvels & Culinary Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore the Side Streets
Venture off the main drag to discover hidden gems, unique shops, and local eateries.
🦞 Market Fresh Seafood
Pick your own seafood at Makishi Market and have it cooked upstairs for an unforgettable meal. +1
📸 Shisa Photo Ops
Look out for the impressive Shisa statues; they make for great photos and are a symbol of Okinawa.
🛍️ Souvenir Hunting
Find unique Okinawan trinkets and character-themed t-shirts – perfect for gifts or personal keepsakes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore the Side Streets
Venture off the main drag to discover hidden gems, unique shops, and local eateries.
🦞 Market Fresh Seafood
Pick your own seafood at Makishi Market and have it cooked upstairs for an unforgettable meal. +1
📸 Shisa Photo Ops
Look out for the impressive Shisa statues; they make for great photos and are a symbol of Okinawa.
🛍️ Souvenir Hunting
Find unique Okinawan trinkets and character-themed t-shirts – perfect for gifts or personal keepsakes.
🌃 Nightlife Vibes
Experience the vibrant nightlife with drinks and entertainment, especially on weekends.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kokusai-dori is a vibrant and bustling street offering a fantastic mix of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Visitors praise its lively atmosphere, the unique 'choose and cook' seafood market, and the wide variety of souvenirs. Some find it can get very crowded, and the sheer number of shops can be overwhelming, but overall it's considered a must-visit for experiencing Okinawa's local flavor.
"A 2km to 3km long of shopping street in Okinawa, which houses a lot of shops selling souvenirs and local delicacy. In addition, the food village and famous public market are found here too. Not to mentioned, a lot of hotels are suited near this famous street too. A great way to immerse yourself into Okinawa culture and while spending your time walking & shopping around."
Kokthye Lim
"Great place to pick up souvenirs and Okinawa t-shirts. Lots of shops selling the same stuff, but lots of side streets selling other goods and services so worth the trip."
Craig Lock
"Kokusai Dori is a buzzling street that stretched about 3km, housing mixed shops from teppan, eat all restaus thatboffers the unique blendnof Okinawa's kitchen."
Noreen Max Josef
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kokusai-dori is conveniently located near Naha Airport. You can take a taxi (about 10-15 minutes) or the Yui Rail monorail to Makishi Station, which is right on the street. +1
Yes, Kokusai-dori is a pedestrian-friendly street, about 2-3 kilometers long. You can easily walk its length and explore the many side streets.
There are several paid parking lots and garages available near Kokusai-dori, though they can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours.
Absolutely! Kokusai-dori is a central hub. You can easily catch buses or the Yui Rail from nearby stations to reach other attractions in Naha.
Walking is the best way to experience Kokusai-dori. You can also rent bicycles in some areas if you prefer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kokusai-dori is a public street and does not require an entrance ticket. You can explore freely.
Most shops and restaurants on Kokusai-dori are open from late morning until late evening. The Makishi Public Market has specific hours, typically closing in the early evening.
The Makishi Public Market itself is free to enter. You only pay for the food you purchase.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on weekday mornings or early afternoons. Evenings and weekends are significantly busier.
Yes, Kokusai-dori often hosts street performances, especially on Sundays, and may have seasonal festivals. Check local listings for events during your visit.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You'll find a wide variety of Okinawan crafts, local snacks, unique character-themed t-shirts, Ryukyu glass, and traditional textiles.
Kokusai-dori and the adjacent Makishi Public Market are prime spots for local delicacies like Okinawan salt, chili peppers, and traditional sweets.
While Kokusai-dori is more about local shopping, there are some shops that offer tax-free purchases for tourists. Look for the 'Tax-Free' signs.
These are often t-shirts featuring popular anime characters or unique Okinawan designs and humor, a popular item for tourists.
Bargaining is not common in most shops on Kokusai-dori, especially in larger stores. However, in smaller stalls or markets, polite negotiation might be possible.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss Okinawan soba, goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry), fresh seafood from Makishi Market, and local sweets like soki soba and Orion beer. +1
The Makishi Public Market is the top recommendation. You select your fish downstairs and have it cooked to your liking upstairs.
While many Okinawan dishes are meat or seafood-based, you can find some vegetable stir-fries, salads, and fruit options. It's best to ask about ingredients.
You'll find everything from casual street food stalls and ramen shops to izakayas and more upscale restaurants serving Okinawan and Japanese cuisine.
Yes, alongside local specialties, you can find some international fast-food chains and restaurants catering to diverse tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant street itself, the towering Shisa statues, the bustling Makishi Public Market, and the colorful shop fronts offer great photo opportunities.
It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals or their stalls, especially in the market.
Both daytime for vibrant colors and nighttime for the neon lights offer unique photographic experiences. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful.
The large Don Quijote store is a prominent landmark, and the various themed shops and street performers provide excellent subjects.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas like Kokusai-dori due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to avoid it.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for shops selling fun souvenirs and character-themed items that kids will love. While many food options are available, be sure to find places with kid-friendly menus. The sheer variety of sights and sounds can make it an adventure for younger visitors, but be prepared for crowds and keep a close eye on children. Consider visiting during the day for a more relaxed experience.
🛍️ Shoppers & Souvenir Hunters
Don't limit yourself to the main street; explore the side alleys for smaller, independent boutiques that might offer more distinctive finds. The Makishi Public Market is also a great place to pick up edible souvenirs like local snacks, teas, and seasonings. Be prepared to spend a good amount of time browsing, as the sheer volume of shops can be overwhelming.
🍜 Foodies & Culinary Explorers
Beyond the market, the street boasts a vast array of dining options. Sample Okinawan soba, goya champuru, and other local specialties. You'll also find izakayas for drinks and small plates, ramen shops, and even some international cuisine. Don't forget to try local Okinawan fruits and sweets.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of Naha: Kokusai-dori's Vibe
Visitors often describe Kokusai-dori as a place where you can find 'everything' – from unique Okinawan souvenirs and local delicacies to fashion boutiques and electronics stores. The sheer variety ensures there's something for every shopper. Beyond retail therapy, the street is a culinary hotspot, with countless eateries offering everything from traditional Okinawan soba and goya champuru to fresh seafood and international cuisine. The adjacent Makishi Public Market is a must-visit for food enthusiasts, offering an immersive experience in local food culture.
Navigating Kokusai-dori is best done on foot, allowing you to fully absorb its dynamic atmosphere. While the main street is the focal point, don't hesitate to explore the numerous side streets and alleys that branch off from it. These smaller lanes often reveal hidden gems, quaint cafes, and more intimate shops that offer a different perspective on Naha's charm. The street's accessibility from Naha Airport via taxi or monorail makes it a convenient starting point for any Okinawa adventure.
Culinary Adventures at Makishi Public Market
The unique 'choose and cook' experience is what sets Makishi Market apart. You can wander through the market, select the freshest seafood that catches your eye – from local specialties like the 'ugly stonefish' to more common catches – and then take it upstairs to one of the many small restaurants. These eateries will expertly prepare your chosen ingredients in a variety of delicious ways, allowing you to savor the authentic flavors of Okinawa.
Beyond seafood, the market also offers a glimpse into other Okinawan culinary staples, including local vegetables, fruits, and traditional snacks. It's a fantastic place to sample local delicacies, interact with vendors, and truly immerse yourself in the local food scene. Be prepared for a lively and sometimes crowded environment, but the culinary rewards are well worth the experience.
Iconic Okinawan Symbols: Shisa Statues
On Kokusai-dori, you'll find many impressive Shisa statues, some of which are quite large and elaborate, making them popular spots for photos. These statues come in pairs, with the male typically having its mouth open to scare away evil, and the female with its mouth closed to keep in good fortune. Their presence adds a unique cultural layer to the vibrant streetscape.
Spotting and photographing these guardian figures is a fun activity that connects you with Okinawan folklore and traditions. They serve as a constant reminder of the island's rich heritage, even amidst the modern hustle and bustle of the shopping street.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit