Makishi Public Market, Naha (must see)

The Naha Public Market serves as a veritable window into the everyday life of Okinawa, offering a cornucopia of produce, meat, fish, and general merchandise. The market's first floor is an eclectic showcase of Okinawan culinary delights, featuring an array of offerings that span from succulent pork, including unconventional parts like pig's face, feet, and stomach, to a kaleidoscope of colorful fish and shellfish, exotic vegetables such as goya (bitter melon) and hechima (sponge gourd), and tropical fruits sourced directly from nearby farms. As you navigate this gastronomic haven, the small alleys that intertwine with the market beckon with stand-up-style shops, tempting visitors with fresh tempura, steamed cakes, and invigorating goya juice.

For those craving an immersive dining experience, the market's second floor is home to an ensemble of eateries that cater to every palate. Here, you can savor an extensive range of Okinawan delicacies at affordable prices within a food court-style setting, allowing you to order diverse dishes from different restaurants under one roof.

Makishi Public Market is not merely a place to satiate one's culinary desires but also an avenue to foster connections with the local community. The ethos of "ichariba chode," an Okinawan spirit that translates to "once we meet, we are like brothers and sisters," pervades the marketplace.