Naha Kokusai Street | Food, Shopping & Travel Guide

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Contents

Introduction

When traveling freely in Okinawa, Naha Kokusai Street is almost everyone’s first stop and also the hardest to navigate.

This shopping street, approximately 1.6 kilometers long, offers different experiences from morning to night in about 30 minutes of walking: in the morning, follow the locals to the first Makishi Public Market to pick seafood, have a bowl of authentic Okinawa soba for lunch in the alleys, shop for drugstore items and souvenirs in the afternoon, and in the evening, find an Okinawa izakaya to enjoy some awamori while slowly soaking in the rhythm of Naha’s nightlife.

However, many first-time travelers have the same confusion:

“What are the must-eat foods on Kokusai Street? What souvenirs should I buy? Which shops are a must-visit? How much time should I allocate?”

This article is specifically written to answer these questions.

I have compiled the must-eat foods, must-buy souvenirs, and must-visit shops on Kokusai Street, along with suggested routes and time allocations, so whether you have half a day or want to explore deeply for a whole day, you can find the best way to enjoy.

Save this article to easily understand Kokusai Street.

📍 Address Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, Kumoji to Makishi area
📏 Length Approximately 1.6 km
🚉 Nearest Station Yui Rail Kencho-mae / Miebashi / Makishi
⏰ Opening Hours Open all day (varies by store)
⏳ Recommended Stay 3 to 6 hours
沖繩自由行 2026|行程美食交通完整攻略

🚃 Transportation Guide: How to Get to Naha Kokusai Street Most Conveniently?

🚝 Okinawa Monorail (Yui Rail) Highly Recommended, On Time

This is the top choice for most travelers, with no worries about traffic jams and frequent trains (about every 8-10 minutes).

    • Boarding Location: Walk to “Naha Airport Station” from the Domestic Terminal 2 via the connecting passage.

    • Disembarking Stations (depending on your destination):

      • Kenfucho-mae Station: Close to the west entrance of Kokusai Street (there’s a large RYUBO department store), a good choice to start your shopping.

      • Miebashi Station: Near the middle area of Kokusai Street, closest to Nukumori Ramen or Makishi Public Market.

      • Makishi Station: Close to the east exit of Kokusai Street, ideal for visiting Yatai Village or exploring from east to west.

    • Fare: Approximately 300 yen for adults.

    • Travel Time: About 13-16 minutes.

    • 💡 Money-Saving Tip: If you plan to ride the monorail more than 3 times in a day, consider buying a “One-Day Pass” (800 yen), valid for 24 hours, which is very cost-effective!

🚗 Driving:

    • Parking is prohibited on the main road of Kokusai Street. The attraction map indicates reasonably priced parking lots, costing around 200-400 yen per hour. For nighttime parking, look for those with a daily maximum fee. Note: Vehicles are prohibited during pedestrian-only Sundays!
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When driving on Kokusai Street in Okinawa, pay attention to the following two points.


🛑 Warning 1|During peak hours on weekdays, the left lane on Kokusai Street is closed to regular vehicles.

Control times:Monday to Friday 07:30 – 09:00, 17:30 – 19:00

During this time, the leftmost lane on major roads like Route 58 and Kokusai Street will be designated for buses and taxis only, and rental cars are strictly prohibited.

It’s important to note that the lanes on Kokusai Street are already narrow, and with the leftmost lane designated as a bus lane, the space for regular vehicles is very limited. During rush hours on weekdays, if your navigation leads you to Kokusai Street, it’s advisable to take a detour instead of trying to force your way through.


🛑 Warning 2|On Sunday afternoons, Kokusai Street is closed to traffic and becomes a pedestrian zone.

Kokusai Street行人天國時間

Closure times:Every Sunday 12:00 ~ 18:00

The core section of Kokusai Street (from the Prefectural Office North Entrance Intersection to the Tsaiwen Bridge Intersection) is regularly closed to traffic every Sunday afternoon, prioritizing pedestrians and completely restricting vehicle access during this time.

On Sundays, when driving in Naha city, please adjust your navigation to avoid closed streets and dead ends.

(Regarding driving to Kokusai Street, to avoid trouble, I always take the outer roads.)

Starting Stations: “Kencho-mae Station” and “Makishi Station”

Located on the west side of Kokusai Street is Kencho-mae Station, and on the east side is Makishi Station, making them great starting points for a stroll. If you want to head directly to the center of Kokusai Street, you can also use Mie Bridge Station.

Walking from one end to the other takes about 30 minutes.

Kokusai Street is approximately 1.6km long. If you explore the alleys as well, you can expect to spend around 2 to 4 hours. Most shops open around 9:00 AM, and some even stay open late, allowing you to enjoy the area all day, but be aware that Naha’s First Makishi Public Market, Tsuboya Pottery Street, and some small shops in the back alleys usually close earlier.

One of the most frequently asked questions about traveling in Okinawa is: How much time should I spend on Kokusai Street?

The answer depends on your travel style:

Here are time suggestions based on different needs:


⚡ Quick Visit | 1.5 to 2 Hours

Suitable for: Transit travelers, packed itineraries, or those just wanting to buy drugstore items and souvenirs.

In this time, you can accomplish:

  • Don Quijote (24 hours, drugstore + snacks all in one)
  • WASITA Shop (local Okinawan products, sweet potato tarts, and awamori)
  • Blue Seal Ice Cream (grab and go dessert)
  • Quickly browse the main street

⚠️ This version is tight on time, so it’s recommended to prepare a shopping list in advance to avoid wasting time comparing prices at similar drugstores.


🚶 Standard Visit | 3 to 5 Hours (Most Recommended)

Suitable for: General Okinawa travelers who want to enjoy food, shopping, and leisurely strolling.

In this time, you can accomplish:

  • Round trip on the main street + drugstore shopping
  • Explore the unique shops in Heiwa-dori or Shijo Hondori
  • Dine on the second floor of the First Makishi Public Market (buy seafood and have it cooked upstairs)
  • Visit a café or dessert shop (Blue Seal / Shio Ice Cream)
  • Leisurely shop for souvenirs

This is the time most travelers find “just right,” not rushed and not feeling like they’ve spent too long.


🗺️ In-Depth Visit | 6 Hours to All Day

Suitable for: First-time visitors to Okinawa, shopping enthusiasts, or those wanting to explore nearby attractions.

In this time, you can accomplish everything above, plus:

  • Tsuboya Street (やちむん通り): Okinawa’s pottery street, with a completely different atmosphere, perfect for photos and selecting handmade pottery
  • Uezu Street: A collection of vintage shops, unique cafés, and select shops, a must-visit for niche culture lovers
  • Lunch with Okinawa noodles + dinner at an izakaya, a complete experience of local food culture
  • Leisurely stroll, take photos, and enjoy a drink

🕐 Time Allocation Cheat Sheet

Visit StyleRecommended TimeSuitable For
Quick Shopping1.5 to 2 HoursPacked itinerary, just buying souvenirs
Standard Stroll3 to 5 HoursGeneral travelers ⭐ Most Recommended
In-Depth Exploration6 Hours to All DayFirst-time visitors / shopping lovers

Every Sunday, it becomes a “Pedestrian Heaven!”

Every Sunday from 12:00 to 18:00, Kokusai Street is open as a pedestrian priority road. Live performances and various street activities suitable for children are held in the middle of the road.

💡 Tips

  • Avoid Crowds: The busiest time on Kokusai Street is from 2 to 4 PM; it’s recommended to visit before 10 AM or after 5 PM for a more comfortable experience.
  • Sunday Street Closure: Every Sunday from 12:00 to 18:00, the main street of Kokusai Street is closed to pedestrians, creating a lively atmosphere but also the largest crowds.
  • Rainy Day Plan: Okinawa has a high chance of rain, but most shops on Kokusai Street are under awnings, making it actually great for shopping on rainy days, so there’s no need to worry too much.
  • Parking Suggestions: For self-driving travelers, it’s recommended to park at “タイムズ国際通り牧志” or nearby paid parking lots, as parking on the main street itself can be difficult.

Walkable! Discover these unique streets on both sides of Kokusai Street, the right way to explore Naha

Kokusai Street is just the starting point. The truly interesting places are often hidden in the winding alleys on either side. Here are a few streets you can reach on foot, each with its own distinct character, all worth taking your time to explore.


1. Tsuboya Yachimun Street (Tsuboya Pottery Street)

This 400-meter cobblestone path gives you the illusion of being transported back to the Ryukyu Kingdom era. Along the way, you’ll find numerous pottery workshops and shops, showcasing everything from traditional designs to modern Okinawan ceramics. Even if you’re not particularly knowledgeable about pottery, just wandering, touching, and watching the artisans at work can easily take up half an afternoon. If you want to take home a truly handmade Okinawan souvenir, Tsuboya Yachimun Street is definitely worth a visit in Naha.

A land of pottery that has continued since ancient times!


2. Naha City Makishi Public Market

Opened in 1950, this market has always been the heart of daily shopping for locals in Naha and a great place for visitors to experience Okinawan food culture. After renovations, it reopened in March 2023, with a cleaner and brighter space, yet the lively atmosphere remains unchanged. The market offers many items you won’t find in regular supermarkets, such as island tofu, sea grapes, and vibrantly colored fish that will make you question your eyesight. This is an absolute must-visit stop while exploring Naha.

The vibrant kitchen of Naha!


3. Sakurazaka Street (Sakura-zaka)

Walking up from Heiwa-dori shopping street, this approximately 150-meter slightly steep slope shifts you from tourist mode to local mode. The street is narrow and the incline may be a bit challenging, but this “not-so-easy” aspect filters out many passersby, leaving behind unique little bars and shops with character. The old house-style buildings and warm lighting create a particularly atmospheric vibe after dark, making it a hidden gem for night outings near Naha Kokusai Street.

A deep, slightly tipsy ambiance wafts through!


4. Ukishima Street (Ukishima-dori)

Starting from the Matsuo intersection near Kokusai Street, walk along this approximately 600-meter street towards Tsuboya, lined with distinctive shops, boutiques, and unique stores. Compared to the hustle and bustle of Kokusai Street, Ukishima Street has a much quieter atmosphere, with no one rushing you or pulling you into shops, making it perfect for those who want to stroll slowly and browse without a specific purchase in mind. You might even stumble upon a café with eye-catching decor around the corner, offering delightful surprises.

A trendy street full of unique character!


These streets are all within walking distance and can easily be connected for a half-day to full-day exploration of Naha. When you get tired of Kokusai Street, diving into the alleys is the true way to get to know this city.

The following attractions will have more detailed introductions

The introductions include Mapcode for easy navigation

Okinawa Kokusai Street Attractions and Food Map

Attraction Convenience Stickers Layout

It’s recommended to open the map on a computer to study the layout with the convenience stickers.

Pink line (monorail route)Orange line (Kokusai Street shopping district)Blue line (Intersection 1 Kokusai Street)Green line (Intersection 2 Market Street + Heiwa-dori)Purple block (Intersection 3 towards Tsuboya Pottery Museum)

Kokusai Street food & shopping route

🚶‍♂️Kokusai Street shopping arcade🚶🏻‍♀️

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Kento-mae Station

県庁前駅

県庁前駅 車站

Intro

Department Ryubo

デパートリウボウ

デパートリウボウ 百貨
10:00~20:00

Intro

Ryubo Department Store

樂園百貨店

樂園百貨店 百貨
10:00~20:00

Intro

Yukisio Sand Kokusai Dori Main Store

雪塩さんど国際通り本店

雪塩さんど国際通り本店 Sweets

10:00~21:00

Yukishio Dessert Specialty Store

Intro

Bunkaya Zakka-ten

文化屋雜貨店

文化屋雜貨店 Souvenir

10:00~22:30

Intro

Washita Shop Kokusai Dori

わしたショップ国際通り店

わしたショップ国際通り店 Souvenir

10:00~22:00

Souvenir Shop

Intro

Kuninda

くにんだ

くにんだ Washoku

11:00~15:00

17:00~22:00

Okinawan Cuisine

Intro

Reserve

Torikizoku Kento-mae Kokusai Dori

鳥貴族 県庁前国際通り店

鳥貴族 県庁前国際通り店 燒鳥
17:00~01:00

Intro

Reserve

Heki Kokusai Dori Matsuo

碧 国際通り松尾店

碧 国際通り松尾店 日本料理

11:00~16:00

17:00~22:00

Teppanyaki Hundred Famous Shops

Intro

Reserve

Splash okinawa Shop 2

Splash okinawa2号店

Splash okinawa2号店 Souvenir
10:00~22:00

Intro

Ryukyu Market

琉球マーケット

琉球マーケット Souvenir
10:00~22:00

Intro

Mitsuhisa Honke

光久本家

光久本家 Washoku

5:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Agudon

Intro

Reserve

Satsudora Okinawa Kokusai Dori

サツドラ沖縄国際通り店

サツドラ沖縄国際通り店 Drugstore

11:00~22:00

Intro

Discount

Okinawa Souvenir Hoshisuna Glass Studio

沖縄お土産 星砂ガラス工房

沖縄お土産 星砂ガラス工房 Souvenir

10:00~18:00

Intro

Fukugiya Kokusai Dori

ふくぎや 国際通り店

ふくぎや 国際通り店 Sweets

10:00~22:00

Intro

HABUBOX Matsuo

HABUBOX松尾店

HABUBOX松尾店 Souvenir

11:00~20:00

T-shirt

Intro

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Ryukyu Piras Ukishima Dori

琉球ぴらす 浮島通り店

琉球ぴらす 浮島通り店 Souvenir

11:00~19:00

T-shirt

Intro

Italian Shokudo ha-na

イタリア食堂ha-na

イタリア食堂ha-na 義式料理

12:00~14:00

18:00~20:30

Intro

Reserve

MIMURI

MIMURI

MIMURI Souvenir

11:00~19:00

Textiles, bags

Intro

Matsuo Basho

松尾芭商

松尾芭商 Souvenir

11:00~19:00

Grocery, souvenirs

Intro

Nouren Plaza

のうれんプラザ

のうれんプラザ 百貨

07:00~20:00

Shopping complex

Intro

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HABUBOX Matsuo

HABUBOX松尾店

HABUBOX松尾店 Souvenir

11:00~20:00

T-shirt

Intro

Blue Seal Kokusai Dori

ブルーシール 国際通り店

ブルーシール 国際通り店 Sweets

10:00~23:00

Intro

Okinawaya Main Store

おきなわ屋 本店

おきなわ屋 本店 Souvenir

10:00~21:00

Souvenir Shop

Intro

Shabu-shabu Kinton

しゃぶしゃぶ金とん

しゃぶしゃぶ金とん Washoku

17:00~22:00

Agu Pork

Intro

Reserve

Amone

海音

海音 居酒屋

5:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Folk Song Izakaya

Intro

Reserve

SuiSavon Kokusai Dori Matsuo

首里石鹸 国際通り松尾店

首里石鹸 国際通り松尾店 Souvenir

10:00~21:00

Soaps and skincare products

Intro

Don Quijote Kokusai Dori

ドン・キホーテ 国際通り店

ドン・キホーテ 国際通り店 逛街

24H

Intro

Discount

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Uema Okinawa Tempura Ichiba Hondori

上間沖縄天ぷら店 市場本通り店

上間沖縄天ぷら店 市場本通り店 日本料理

10:30~19:00

Tempura

Intro

Matsubaraya Seika

松原屋製菓

松原屋製菓 Sweets

09:00~20:00

Snack Shop

Intro

C&C BREAKFAST

C&C BREAKFAST

C&C BREAKFAST 早午餐

09:00~15:00

Brunch

Intro

Naha City First Makishi Public Market

那霸市第一牧志公設市場

那霸市第一牧志公設市場 逛街
08:00~21:00

Intro

Inaka Kosetsu Ichiba Minami

田舎 公設市場南店

田舎 公設市場南店 拉麵

10:00~15:00

Okinawa soba

Intro

Makishi Carnival

マキシカーニバル

マキシカーニバル Food

11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Opening in October 2025

Bar, Food Street

Intro

Chiruri

ちるり

ちるり Food

12:00~14:30

18:00~22:00

Morioka Cold Noodles

Intro

Reserve

Toy Roadworks

玩具ロードワークス

玩具ロードワークス Souvenir

10:00~18:00

Okinawa Traditional Dolls

Intro

Kaisou Heiwa Dori

海想 平和通り店

海想 平和通り店 Souvenir

10:00~20:00

Select Shop

Intro

Popular Non-Driving Itineraries

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Ramen Danbo Naha Makishi

ラーメン暖暮 那覇牧志店

ラーメン暖暮 那覇牧志店 拉麵

11:00~00:00

Intro

Okashigoten Kokusai Dori Makishi

御菓子御殿 國際通牧志店

御菓子御殿 國際通牧志店 Sweets

09:00~22:00

Intro

Naha City Tourist Information Center

那覇市観光案内所

那覇市観光案内所 Sight

09:00~20:00

Luggage storage, stroller and wheelchair rental

Intro

Tenbusu Naha Experience Facility

てんぶす那覇 体験施設

てんぶす那覇 体験施設 Culture

09:00~20:00

Traditional craft reservation experience course

Intro

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Fukurasha

ふくら舎

ふくら舎 Souvenir

10:30~20:00

Selection Store

Intro

Naha Municipal Tsuboya Pottery Museum

那霸市立壺屋燒物博物館

那霸市立壺屋燒物博物館 Culture
10:00~18:00

Intro

Tsuboya Pottery Ikutoen Yachimun Dojo

壺屋窯元育陶園 やちむん道場

壺屋窯元育陶園 やちむん道場 Culture

10:00~18:00

Ceramics Workshop

Intro

nan*ne

nan*ne

nan*ne Souvenir

11:00~18:00

Select shop, Okinawa soba

Intro

Yacchi & Moon

ヤッチとムーン

ヤッチとムーン Souvenir

10:00~18:30

Pottery

Intro

Tsuboy焼 Kamamoto Ikutoen

壺屋焼窯元育陶園

壺屋焼窯元育陶園 Culture

10:00~18:00

Pottery

Intro

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Nariyoshi

なりよし

なりよし 拉麵

18:00~05:00

Intro

Trip Craft Naha Workshop

体験工房 TRIP CRAFT NAHA

体験工房 TRIP CRAFT NAHA Culture

09:00~19:00

Intro

Kokusai Dori Yataimura

国際通り屋台村

国際通り屋台村 Food
11:00~24:00

Intro

Rental Ryuso veni

レンタル琉装veni

レンタル琉装veni Culture
10:00~19:00

Intro

Shimauta & Local Cuisine Tubarama

島唄と地料理 とぅばらーま

島唄と地料理 とぅばらーま Washoku

11:00~14:30

17:00~23:00

Traditional Folk Song Restaurant

Intro

Reserve

Makishi Station

牧志駅

牧志駅 車站


Intro

Popular Non-Driving Itineraries

HOTEL NAHA CITY

HOTEL NAHA CITY

HOTEL NAHA CITY Hotel

Hotel

¥5,500~¥10,000

Intro

Book

Condominium Resort Naha

コンドミニアムリゾート那覇

コンドミニアムリゾート那覇 Hotel

Hotels

¥4,000~¥15,000

Intro

Book

Hotel Resol Trinity Naha

ホテルリソルトリニティ那覇

ホテルリソルトリニティ那覇 Hotel

Hotel

¥8,000~¥15,000

Intro

Book

Okinawa Hinode Hotel

沖縄逸の彩ホテル

沖縄逸の彩ホテル Hotel

Hotel

¥17,000~¥20,000

Intro

Book

Lestel Naha

レステル那覇

レステル那覇 Hotel

Youth Hostel

¥3,000~¥15,000

Intro

Book

THE KITCHEN HOSTEL AO

THE KITCHEN HOSTEL AO

THE KITCHEN HOSTEL AO Hotel

Youth Hostel

¥2,650~¥5,400

Intro

Book

🚗Attractions near Kokusai Street

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Makishi Station

牧志駅

牧志駅 車站


Intro

Churasan 6 Okinawa

ちゅらさん6沖縄

ちゅらさん6沖縄 Culture

20:00~01:00

Entertainment Show Restaurant

10-minute walk from Miei Bridge Station

Intro

Tickets

Fukushuen Garden

福州園

福州園 Culture

09:00~21:00

Intro

Naminouegu Shrine

波上宮

波上宮 Temple

24h

20 minutes walk to Kokusai Street

Intro

Naminoue Beach

波の上ビーチ

波の上ビーチ 灣岸

24h

20 minutes walk to Kokusai Street

Intro

🗺️Attractions Near Kokusai Street Worth Visiting

After exploring Kokusai Street, Naha actually has many hidden gems that most tourists don’t know about. If you have more time, these two guides can help you complete your itinerary for Naha and southern Okinawa:


🏯 Naha Sakaemachi Market・Omoromachi・Shuri Castle Guide

If Kokusai Street represents the tourist side of Naha, Sakaemachi Market is the local side.

This market street, built in 1955 and filled with Showa-era charm, serves as a daily shopping spot for residents during the day and transforms into a lively area of izakayas and bars at night. It has been voted the best alley in Japan by travelers, hiding many local favorites.

The Omoromachi area presents a completely different face—home to large shopping centers like San-A Naha Main Place and T Galleria Duty-Free, it is Naha’s most modern commercial district, a must-visit for travelers looking for Japanese department stores and diverse shopping options.

The highlight, Shuri Castle, was the palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom for 400 years. The red main hall on the castle walls was destroyed in a fire in 2019 and is currently under reconstruction. Nevertheless, it remains a crucial stop for understanding Okinawa’s history and Ryukyu culture, offering a living history lesson as you walk through the entire area.

👉 For an in-depth experience of local Naha, these three places make for a perfect day trip.


🚗 Complete Guide to Southern Okinawa Attractions and Food|Senaga Island・Seifa Utaki・Gyokusendo Cave Driving Route

If you have a rental car, this driving route south of Naha is one of the best half-day trips in Okinawa.

Senaga Island is a small island adjacent to Naha Airport, featuring the “Umikaji Terrace,” a cluster of white buildings built on a hillside. The Mediterranean-style shops, restaurants, and cafes make you forget you’re in Okinawa. Sitting on the terrace, you can see planes flying low over the sea, making it one of the most unique spots for plane watching in Okinawa.

Seifa Utaki (せーふぁうたき) is Okinawa’s most sacred World Heritage site, an important ritual site from the Ryukyu Kingdom era, still preserving its original stone structures and ancient forests. The atmosphere instantly becomes serene as you enter, contrasting sharply with the relaxed vibe of beach vacations.

Gyokusendo Cave is a natural limestone cave over 300,000 years old, stretching 5 kilometers, with about 890 meters open for viewing. It boasts over a million stalactites, making it one of Japan’s largest limestone caves. The cave is cool and pleasant, perfect for a summer stop to escape the heat and take photos, offering great value.

👉 This route is most convenient starting from Naha Airport and is also great for the last stop on your return trip.

🍜 Must-Try Foods on Kokusai Street|You’ll Regret Not Trying These

When traveling freely in Okinawa, food is definitely the highlight of the trip. The restaurants around Kokusai Street are dense, offering everything from street snacks to izakayas and high-end cuisine, but the many choices can leave you unsure of where to start. Here, we’ve organized a list of must-try dishes—whether it’s your first visit or a return to Okinawa, these are worth saving room for.


🥣 Okinawa Soba (沖縄そば) — The Soul Food of Okinawa, A Must-Try

Okinawa soba is neither ramen nor soba; it’s a unique noodle culture that belongs entirely to Okinawa. The clear broth made from pork bones and bonito is paired with thick, flat noodles, topped with tender braised pork belly (ラフテー) or soft, fall-off-the-bone spareribs (ソーキ), making it the standard Okinawa soba.

The broth looks clear but has unexpected depth, balancing salty and sweet without being greasy. Locals have been enjoying it since childhood, and for those from afar, it evokes a sense of “home.”

Recommended Shop: Tanya Public Market South Branch (Affordable, Showa-style diner atmosphere)


🍦 Blue Seal Ice Cream — Okinawa Exclusive Flavors, A Must-Have While Walking

“Blue Seal” is the most representative ice cream brand in Okinawa, starting in 1948 near a U.S. military base, and over seventy years later, it has become a collective memory for Okinawans. The branch on Kokusai Street is open until 11 PM, making it easy to find from day to night.

The must-try flavor is “Shio Chinsuko” (salted traditional cookie), which mixes Okinawa’s traditional cookie into the ice cream, creating a surprisingly addictive salty-sweet layer; “Beni Imo” (purple sweet potato) is rich and vibrant, pleasing both visually and in taste; and “Shikuwasa” (沖縄香檸) is refreshing and slightly sour, perfect for cooling down under the sun.

Shop Info: Blue Seal Kokusai Street Store / 10:00~23:00


🧂 Snow Salt Soft Serve — A Salty-Sweet Combo Worth the Wait

Located at the entrance of Kokusai Street, “Yukishio Sando” specializes in Miyako Island snow salt desserts. The signature soft serve has a subtle saltiness, and the highlight is the variety of unique flavored salts you can sprinkle on, such as cocoa, matcha, shikuwasa, and chili, making each bite different.

Many find that adding shikuwasa salt gives the soft serve a salty, fragrant, sweet flavor reminiscent of a gourmet cheesecake. It sounds strange, but once you try it, you’ll understand.

Shop Info: Yukishio Sando Kokusai Street Main Store / 10:00~21:00


🍤 Okinawa Tempura (沖縄天ぷら) — Affordable Street Food, A Must-Try Traditional Taste

Okinawa tempura is completely different from the tempura found in Honshu; the batter is thick and chewy, naturally salty, resembling hearty street fried foods rather than the light and crispy Edo-style. This has been a beloved taste for generations of Okinawans, and you can get one for under 100 yen, making it one of the best value snacks around Kokusai Street.

Must-tries include “Ika Tempura” (squid), which is tender and juicy, and “Mozuku Tempura” (seaweed), which is fried into round balls with a hint of ocean flavor, hard to find in other prefectures. Don’t forget to try “Sata Andagi” (沖縄炸甜甜圈) — crispy on the outside and dense on the inside, it’s the perfect ending to an afternoon tea.

Recommended Shop: Uema Okinawa Tempura Shop Market Main Street (Next to Makishi Public Market)


🥩 Agu Pork Shabu-Shabu — High-End Local Pork, Go for the Best

The local Okinawan breed “Agu Pork” (アグー豚) has delicate meat with evenly distributed fat, and after being cooked in broth, it has a subtle sweetness that is distinctly different from regular pork. There are several restaurants specializing in Agu pork around Kokusai Street, but few insist on purebred, direct-sourced meat.

For a memorable dinner, “Kintan” and “Mitsuhisa Honke” are both well-reviewed options in Naha; the former offers a view of Kokusai Street’s night scene while dining, and the latter serves kaiseki-style shabu-shabu from a renowned chef, both recommend making reservations in advance.

Recommended Shops: Shabu-Shabu Kintan, Mitsuhisa Honke


🍺 Kokusai Street Yatai Village — 20 Stalls of Snacks, Experience Okinawa’s Nightlife

If you want to experience the lively atmosphere of Naha at night, Kokusai Street Yatai Village is the most direct way. Over 20 stalls are packed together, offering Orion beer, awamori cocktails, skewers, and Okinawan cuisine, creating a lively and casual atmosphere where chatting with strangers is common.

Not every stall is exceptional, but the overall experience of “having a drink in Naha” is very well executed. It’s recommended to visit after 7 PM for the best atmosphere and popularity.


🎵 Folk Izakaya “Mion” — Dining with Live Sanshin Music, The Most Soulful Meal in Okinawa

If you can only choose one unique restaurant during your entire Okinawa trip, Folk Izakaya “Mion” (みおん) is an irreplaceable choice. Hidden in the basement of Kokusai Street’s Okashi Goten, live musicians perform Okinawan folk songs on the sanshin every night, while the kitchen is run by experienced grandmothers, serving home-style dishes like stir-fried bitter melon and braised pork belly. The entrance fee is ¥528 per person, and reservations are recommended.

🛍️ Must-Buy Souvenirs on Kokusai Street|Pack These Before You Go

Finding souvenirs in Okinawa isn’t hard, but navigating through hundreds of shops without wasting time or ending up with random items can be tricky. Here’s a list of the best items to bring home from the Kokusai Street area, ranging from must-have classics to unique finds, ensuring you can find the right one for your budget and taste.


🍠 Purple Sweet Potato Tart (紅いもタルト) — Okinawa’s Absolute No. 1 Souvenir

If you can only bring one thing back from Okinawa, most people would choose the Purple Sweet Potato Tart. This snack, popularized by 御菓子御殿, is made with locally sourced purple sweet potatoes, featuring a deep purple color, a sweet yet not overwhelming taste, a crispy exterior, and a delicate filling, making it a perfect gift or personal treat.

While there are variations, the authentic “元祖紅芋塔” can be found at 御菓子御殿, which opens at 09:00 at the Kokusai Street Makishi location, one of the earliest places to buy it. Recommended Purchase Locations: 御菓子御殿 Kokusai Street Makishi Store, わしたショップ


🧁 Baumkuchen (バウムクーヘン) — Made with Okinawan Ingredients, Offering a Unique Texture

「ふくぎや」is Okinawa’s first Baumkuchen specialty store, featuring three signature flavors all handcrafted with local ingredients. The honey version “福木” is soft and moist; the brown sugar version “細葉榕” has a crispy caramelized exterior and rich aroma; the purple sweet potato version “紅時” is beautifully colored and naturally sweet. All three names are inspired by Okinawa’s windbreak trees, and the packaging is exquisite, making it a great gift with a story. Recommended Purchase Location: ふくぎや Kokusai Street Store


🧼 Shuri Soap — The Most Stylish Okinawan Skincare Souvenir

If you want to bring back a souvenir that doesn’t scream “tourist,” Shuri Soap is highly recommended. Made from local plants like Okinawan West Indian cherry, pandanus, and awamori sake lees, each handmade soap has a unique scent and skin feel, with packaging that embodies Japanese quality, making it a great gift for female friends or for personal use. The store has a testing area, so you can try before you buy. Recommended Purchase Location: Shuri Soap Kokusai Street Matsuo Gallery Store


🌊 Ryukyu Glass — Bring Home a Color Unique to Okinawa

Ryukyu glass is one of Okinawa’s most representative crafts, with each piece uniquely created through hand-blowing, resulting in distinct bubble patterns—no two pieces are exactly alike. The colors are inspired by the hues of Okinawa’s sea: deep blue, turquoise, and sunset orange, making any piece a beautiful addition to your home.

Prices vary widely, from a few hundred yen for small items to over a thousand yen for exquisite pieces. Recommended Purchase Locations: 琉球マーケット, おきなわ屋 本店, ふくら舎


🐷 Awamori (泡盛) — Okinawa’s Unique Distilled Spirit, Perfect for Friends Who Appreciate Alcohol

Awamori is a traditional distilled spirit unique to Okinawa, made from Thai rice, with a flavor distinct from sake or whiskey, typically with an alcohol content above 30%. Aged versions (古酒) have a charming oak aroma. Gifting a bottle to a friend who enjoys alcohol is much more interesting than typical store-bought options. Recommended Purchase Locations: わしたショップ (with a full range of representative brews), 唐吉訶德 (large quantities at friendly prices)


🍬 Brown Sugar Snacks — So Many Choices, It’s Hard to Decide

Okinawa offers a wide variety of brown sugar snacks, making it hard to choose—from simple brown sugar cubes, brown sugar cookies, brown sugar milk candies, to brown sugar-flavored Baumkuchen… each has its own fan base. They are affordable and lightweight, making them perfect for bulk gifting. わしたショップ has a complete selection of brown sugar snacks, so you can stock up without running around.


👕 Okinawa Design T-Shirts — The Best Travel Souvenir for Yourself

If you prefer not to bring food back, a stylish Okinawa T-shirt is a great alternative. HABUBOX and MIMURI are two of the most dedicated shops on Kokusai Street, with the former offering humorous American street-style designs featuring collaborations with local brands like Orion Beer and Blue Seal; the latter features hand-drawn designs by the designer, themed around market produce and tropical flowers, with vibrant patterns that stand out and are unlikely to be duplicated.


💡 Shopping Guide: Where to Buy What for the Best Value

TypeRecommended Locations
Purple Sweet Potato Tart, Kinjo Cake, Brown Sugar御菓子御殿, わしたショップ, おきなわ屋
Awamori, Okinawa Exclusive Alcoholわしたショップ, 唐吉訶德
Ryukyu Glass, Pottery Crafts琉球マーケット, ふくら舎, 海想
Natural Skincare Products, SoapShuri Soap, Splash Okinawa
Drugstore Items, Daily Necessities唐吉訶德 (24H), 松本清, サツドラ
Designer T-Shirts, Unique GoodsHABUBOX, MIMURI, 文化屋雑貨店
Premium Souvenirs, Specialty Items楽園百貨店, ふくら舎, 琉球ぴらす

Q1. How long can you spend on Kokusai Street?

Depending on your travel style, the suggested times are as follows:

  • Quick shopping (only buying drugstore souvenirs): 1.5 to 2 hours
  • Standard stroll (food + shopping + alleys): 3 to 5 hours ⭐Highly recommended
  • In-depth exploration (including Tsuboya and Uezu): 6 hours or more

First-time visitors to Okinawa should set aside at least half a day (about 4 hours) to enjoy eating, shopping, and exploring at a leisurely pace.


Q2. What must-eat foods are there on Kokusai Street?

Here are some must-try dishes that are sure to please:

  • 🥣 Okinawa Soba — The soul food of Okinawa, with a rich bonito and pork bone broth, a must-try
  • 🍦 Blue Seal Ice Cream — A local Okinawa brand, featuring limited flavors like salt caramel and purple sweet potato
  • 🧂 Snow Salt Soft Serve — Made with Miyako Island snow salt, with customizable salt toppings
  • 🍤 Okinawa Tempura — Thick batter with a salty flavor, featuring mozuku (seaweed) that can only be found in Okinawa
  • 🥩 Agugyu Shabu Shabu — Local Okinawa pork, tender and sweet, a top choice for dinner

Q3. What souvenirs are must-buys on Kokusai Street?

Here are the most recommended and least risky choices:

  • 🍠 Purple Sweet Potato Tart — Okinawa’s top souvenir, the most authentic from Okashi Goten
  • 🧁 Baumkuchen (Fukugiya) — Handmade with Okinawan ingredients, high-quality packaging for gifts
  • 🧼 Shuri Soap — Natural handmade soap, stylish design, a great gift for female friends
  • 🌊 Ryukyu Glass — Hand-blown, each piece is unique and holds great commemorative value
  • 🍬 Brown Sugar Snacks — Affordable and lightweight, a great choice for sharing
  • 🐷 Awamori — Okinawa’s exclusive distilled liquor, perfect for gifting to friends who appreciate alcohol

Q4. What shops are must-visits on Kokusai Street?

Here are some shops worth a special visit:

  • 🏬 Don Quijote (24 hours) — A one-stop shop for drugstore items, snacks, and Okinawa exclusives, perfect for late-night shopping
  • 🏛️ WASITA Shop — Directly operated by the Okinawa Prefectural Products Association, offering purple sweet potato tarts, awamori, and brown sugar all in one place
  • 🐟 Makishi Public Market — The most vibrant traditional market in Okinawa, where you can buy seafood and have it cooked on the second floor
  • 🎨 HABUBOX — Okinawa-designed T-shirts, featuring collaborations with Blue Seal and Orion
  • 🖌️ MIMURI — Designer hand-painted Okinawa-themed patterns, unique and stylish

Q5. How to get to Kokusai Street? What transportation should I take?

From Naha Airport, taking the Yui Rail Monorail is the most convenient:

StationWalking TimeBest for
Kencho-mae StationAbout 3 minutesWest entrance of Kokusai Street, Don Quijote
Miebashi StationAbout 5 minutesMiddle section of Kokusai Street, WASITA Shop
Makishi StationAbout 3 minutesEast side of Kokusai Street, Makishi Public Market

The journey from the airport to Kencho-mae Station takes about 13 minutes, with a fare of approximately ¥270. It is recommended to purchase a 1-day pass (¥800) or 2-day pass (¥1,400) for more economical round trips.


Q6. Is there parking on Kokusai Street? How to park if driving?

Kokusai Street itself does not provide parking; it is recommended to park in nearby paid parking lots:

  • Times Kokusai Street Makishi (next to Makishi Station, 24 hours)
  • Repark Naha Kokusai Street (near Kencho-mae Station)
  • AEON Naha Store Parking Lot (free with minimum purchase)

On Sundays from 12:00 to 18:00, the main street is closed to vehicles and becomes a pedestrian zone; drivers are advised to avoid going on Sunday afternoons due to the chaotic traffic.


Q7. What is the street closure on Kokusai Street on Sundays?

Every Sunday from noon 12:00 to 18:00, Kokusai Street is closed to vehicles and becomes a pedestrian zone (Transit Mall).

During the closure, the entire street is open for walking, creating a lively atmosphere with street performers, making it a great time to experience the vibrant side of Kokusai Street. However, it is also the busiest time of the week, so if you prefer to avoid crowds, it is recommended to visit on weekdays or Sunday mornings.


Q8. What other places near Kokusai Street are worth visiting?

After exploring Kokusai Street, these nearby attractions are worth checking out:

  • 🏺 Tsuboya Street (やちむん通り) — An old pottery street in Okinawa, with a completely different atmosphere, perfect for photos and shopping
  • 🧥 Uezu Street — A concentration of vintage shops, cafes, and boutiques, a must-visit for niche culture enthusiasts
  • 🐟 Makishi Public Market — The market itself is an attraction, offering a seafood cooking experience for the most local way to eat
  • ⛩️ Naminoue Shrine — The oldest shrine in Okinawa, about a 10-minute drive from Kokusai Street, suitable for a half-day itinerary

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