Kokusai Dori Street
The Heartbeat of Okinawa's Capital
Kokusai Dori, meaning 'International Street,' earned its name from the former Ernie Pyle International Theater that once stood along the road. The street rose from the devastation of World War II, when Naha was almost completely destroyed in the Battle of Okinawa. In the post-war years, Kokusai Dori developed rapidly as the commercial heart of the reconstructed city, becoming known as the 'Miracle Mile' for its extraordinary economic recovery.
During the American military administration of Okinawa (1945-1972), the street served as a cultural crossroads where Okinawan traditions met American influence. This unique fusion shaped the street's character, creating a distinctive atmosphere different from mainland Japan. The vibrant mix of traditional ryukyu culture, American elements, and modern Japanese commerce gave Kokusai Dori its eclectic identity.
After Okinawa's reversion to Japan in 1972, Kokusai Dori continued evolving as the prefecture's premier shopping and entertainment district. Today, it represents the essence of contemporary Okinawa - a 1.6-kilometer thoroughfare where traditional craft shops coexist with modern retailers, where island music spills from live houses, and where visitors can experience Okinawan culture through shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Key Highlights
- 1.6 kilometers of shopping and dining
- Okinawan crafts and souvenir shops
- Traditional and modern entertainment
- Local food and awamori distilleries
- Sunday pedestrian paradise event
- Gateway to Makishi Public Market
Access Information
Location
Makishi, Naha, Okinawa 900-0013, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Kenchomae Station (Okinawa Monorail) - street begins here
- • Makishi Station (Okinawa Monorail) - mid-point access
- • Asahibashi Station (Okinawa Monorail) - street's eastern end
Opening Hours
Shops typically 10:00-22:00, restaurants until late. Always accessible
Admission Fee
Free to walk, purchases and dining vary
How to Get There
From Naha Airport
Okinawa Monorail (Yui Rail) to Kenchomae or Makishi Station
15 minutes
From Shuri Castle
Monorail from Shuri to Makishi Station
15 minutes
From Cruise Ship Terminal
Taxi or monorail from Asahibashi Station
10 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Best Time to Visit
Evenings come alive with lights and energy. Sunday afternoons (12:00-18:00) feature pedestrian paradise when traffic is closed for street performers and markets. Early morning offers peaceful window shopping. Visit during festivals for special events and entertainment.
Shopping Highlights
Look for traditional Okinawan crafts: bingata textiles, ryukyu glass, shisa statues, tsuboya pottery, and kokuto (brown sugar) products. Department stores like Palette Kumoji mix with small specialty shops. Bargaining not customary except at some market stalls.
Okinawan Cuisine
Try local specialties: Okinawa soba, goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry), soki soba, taco rice, blue seal ice cream, and sata andagi (Okinawan donuts). Many restaurants offer set meals. Awamori tasting available at specialty shops.
Makishi Public Market
Just off Kokusai Dori, this traditional market is a must-visit. First floor sells fresh seafood, produce, and local ingredients. Second floor restaurants cook your market purchases. Currently relocated during renovation (check status). Authentic local atmosphere.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Live Okinawan music in izakayas and live houses. Shisa dance performances at tourist spots. Arcade game centers popular. Nighttime brings vibrant bar and entertainment district atmosphere. Traditional Ryukyu performances available at larger venues.
Side Street Exploration
Venture into side arcades like Heiwa Dori (Peace Street) and Mutsumi Bridge Market for different atmosphere and local shops. These covered arcades offer respite from sun and rain. Less touristy and often better prices than main street.
Payment and Services
Most shops accept credit cards, but carry cash for smaller establishments and market stalls. Tax-free shopping available at designated stores (bring passport). Many shops ship purchases domestically. Tourist information centers provide English assistance.
Weather Considerations
Okinawa is hot and humid year-round. Covered arcades off main street provide shade. Bring sun protection and stay hydrated. Rainy season (May-June) and typhoon season (August-September) may affect outdoor activities. Indoor shopping options abundant.
FAQ
What is Kokusai Dori and why should I visit?
Kokusai Dori (International Street) is Naha's main shopping and entertainment boulevard, stretching 1.6 kilometers. It's the heart of Okinawan tourism featuring souvenir shops, restaurants, bars, hotels, department stores, and local markets. The street showcases Okinawan culture through food, crafts, music, and nightlife, making it essential for any Naha visit.
How long does it take to walk the entire street?
Walking straight through takes about 20-30 minutes, but most visitors spend 2-4 hours exploring shops, restaurants, and side streets. The street is pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks. If you include lunch, shopping, and visiting the Makishi Public Market or side arcades, plan for a half day or full afternoon/evening.
What are the opening hours for shops on Kokusai Dori?
Most shops open between 9:00-10:00 AM and close around 10:00-11:00 PM, though hours vary by establishment. Restaurants may open earlier for lunch and stay open later into the evening. Bars and entertainment venues operate until late night. Sunday afternoons (12:00-6:00 PM) feature car-free pedestrian zones in summer months.
What Okinawan souvenirs can I buy on Kokusai Dori?
Popular souvenirs include shisa (lion-dog guardian statues), Ryukyu glass, bingata textiles, awamori (Okinawan distilled spirits), chinsuko cookies, umibudo (sea grapes), goya snacks, sanshin musical instruments, tropical fruit products, and kokuto (brown sugar) sweets. Shops range from tourist-oriented to authentic craft stores.
Where should I eat on Kokusai Dori?
Try Okinawan soba at numerous specialized restaurants, taco rice at local diners, steak houses featuring Okinawan beef, izakayas serving goya champuru and rafute, and international cuisines. The nearby Makishi Public Market's second floor offers fresh seafood prepared to order. Side streets often have better value than main-street restaurants.
How do I get to Kokusai Dori from Naha Airport?
Take the Okinawa Urban Monorail (Yui Rail) from the airport to Kencho-mae, Makishi, or Miebashi stations (15-20 minutes, 260-270 yen). All three stations provide easy access to different parts of Kokusai Dori. Taxis take about 15 minutes but cost around 1,500-2,000 yen. The monorail is most convenient and economical.
Is Kokusai Dori better during the day or at night?
Both offer different experiences. Daytime is best for shopping, visiting the market, and sightseeing with better visibility for photos. Evening and night bring vibrant atmosphere with illuminated signs, izakayas coming alive, live music, and a festive mood. Visiting both day and night gives you the complete Kokusai Dori experience.
What is Makishi Public Market and how do I get there?
Makishi Public Market is Okinawa's most famous traditional market, located on a side street off Kokusai Dori (near Makishi Station). The first floor sells fresh fish, meat, and vegetables while the second floor has restaurants that will cook your first-floor purchases. It's a 2-minute walk from mid-Kokusai Dori through the covered shopping arcade.
Are prices negotiable in Kokusai Dori shops?
Generally, prices are fixed in department stores and established shops. Some tourist-oriented souvenir shops may offer small discounts for multiple purchases, especially if you buy several items. Makishi Public Market vendors may be more flexible. Always be polite when asking about discounts, and don't expect large reductions.
Can I find English-speaking staff on Kokusai Dori?
As Okinawa's main tourist area, many shops and restaurants have basic English support or multilingual menus. Hotel staff and tourist information centers have English speakers. However, smaller local establishments may have limited English. Pointing, gestures, and translation apps work well. The area is very tourist-friendly overall.
What is the Sunday pedestrian zone?
From around 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Sundays during warmer months (usually April-November), a section of Kokusai Dori becomes car-free. This creates a festival atmosphere with street performers, musicians, and occasionally outdoor markets. It's a great time to visit for a more relaxed walking experience, though shops can be busier.
What side streets and arcades should I explore?
Don't miss Heiwa Dori and Ichiba Hondori arcades leading to Makishi Market, offering local shops and eateries. Tsuboya Yachimun Street features pottery workshops and galleries. The side streets near Asato Station have local izakayas and restaurants with better prices. Exploring these areas reveals more authentic Okinawan culture beyond main-street tourism.
Is Kokusai Dori family-friendly?
Yes, the street is suitable for families during the day with wide sidewalks, accessible facilities, and many family-friendly restaurants. Some shops sell toys and children's items. The area becomes more adult-oriented in the evening with bars and entertainment venues. Strollers can navigate the area easily, and there are many public restrooms.
What unique Okinawan foods should I try?
Must-try dishes include Okinawa soba (wheat noodles in pork broth), goya champuru (bitter melon stir-fry), rafute (braised pork belly), taco rice, umibudo (sea grapes), soki soba, jimami tofu (peanut tofu), and sata andagi (Okinawan donuts). Many restaurants on Kokusai Dori specialize in these local favorites.
Where can I experience Okinawan music and culture?
Several establishments offer live Okinawan music performances with sanshin (three-stringed instrument) and traditional dance. Some restaurants include cultural performances with dinner. Check the Okinawa Prefectural Museum nearby for deeper cultural immersion. Evening street performances occasionally occur, especially during the Sunday pedestrian zone.
What hotels are located on or near Kokusai Dori?
Numerous hotels line Kokusai Dori ranging from budget to upscale, including Hotel JAL City Naha, Daiwa Roynet Hotel, Richmond Hotel, and many business hotels and guesthouses. Staying on Kokusai Dori provides easy access to restaurants, shopping, and the monorail, making it ideal for first-time visitors to Okinawa.
Can I buy genuine Ryukyu glass and crafts?
Yes, though quality varies among shops. Look for stores displaying craft association certificates or visit specialized craft galleries. Higher quality items cost more but are authentic. Tsuboya Yachimun Street specializes in pottery. Some shops offer demonstrations. Ask about the item's origin and maker if authenticity concerns you.
What time is Kokusai Dori least crowded?
Early mornings (before 10:00 AM) are quietest, though many shops aren't open yet. Weekday afternoons (2:00-5:00 PM) are relatively calm compared to evenings and weekends. Late evenings after 9:00 PM see fewer shoppers but more bar-goers. Avoid Sunday afternoons and major Japanese holidays for the least crowded experience.
Are there any festivals or events on Kokusai Dori?
The street hosts various events including the Naha Giant Tug-of-War Festival in October (one of the world's largest), eisa dance performances during summer, occasional cultural festivals, and seasonal illuminations. The Naha Marathon in December starts nearby. Check local tourism websites for event schedules during your visit.
What other attractions are within walking distance?
Shuri Castle (30 minutes walk or short monorail ride), Fukushu-en Garden, Tsuboya Pottery District, and Naminoue Shrine are all nearby. The monorail connects easily to Shikinaen Garden and other attractions. The Tomari Port area (15-minute walk) has the fish market and ferries to nearby islands. Kokusai Dori serves as an excellent base for exploring Naha.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Cape Manzamo
Dramatic limestone cliff formation resembling an elephant's trunk, offering spectacular ocean views and one of Okinawa's most iconic natural landmarks.
Cape Zanpa
A dramatic coastal promontory on Okinawa's western shore featuring towering limestone cliffs, a historic white lighthouse, crystal-clear waters, and spectacular sunset views over the East China Sea
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
One of the world's largest aquariums, featuring the massive Kuroshio Sea tank with whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of marine species from Okinawa's waters.
Iriomote Island
Japan's last frontier - a jungle-covered island where 90% remains pristine wilderness, home to endangered Iriomote wildcats, mangrove rivers, and UNESCO World Heritage nature.
Ishigaki Island
Tropical paradise and gateway to the Yaeyama Islands, offering pristine beaches, coral reefs, jungle mountains, and Japan's best stargazing under protected dark skies.
Kouri Island
Small romantic island connected by a spectacular 2km bridge offering emerald waters, pristine beaches, and Okinawan legend as the birthplace of humanity.
Miyako Island
A tropical paradise featuring pristine white sand beaches and the clearest turquoise waters in Japan, consistently ranked among Asia's best beach destinations.
Naminoue Shrine
Okinawa's most important Shinto shrine dramatically perched on a cliff above the ocean, blending Ryukyuan and mainland Japanese religious traditions with spectacular coastal views in the heart of Naha