Okinawa Main Island, a gem of Japan, has always been famous for its rich culture, traditional crafts, and delectable local snacks. Whether you are seeking to take a piece of Okinawa home or looking for the perfect gift, our comprehensive guide covers the best souvenirs you can find on the island.
The Best Okinawa Souvenirs
Ryukyu Glass
Ryukyu glassware is a quintessential Okinawan souvenir. These hand-blown glass items, with their vibrant colors and unique textures, are the result of traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. You can find vases, cups, and ornaments that capture the beauty of Okinawa’s landscapes and oceans.
Okinawan Shisa Dogs
The Shisa dog, a traditional Ryukyuan decoration, is often placed on roofs or at the entrance of homes to ward off evil spirits. These lion-dog figures can be found in various sizes and materials, from ceramic to stone, and make for a meaningful souvenir embodying Okinawa’s cultural heritage.
Awamori Liquor
Awamori, Okinawa’s traditional distilled spirit, is renowned for its smooth flavor and unique aging process. Distilleries throughout Okinawa offer tours and tastings, allowing you to choose the perfect bottle to take home. It’s available in various flavors and ages, from young and fresh to aged and complex.
Chinsuko Cookies
Chinsuko is a traditional Okinawan shortbread cookie, loved for its delicate sweetness and crumbly texture. Available in various flavors such as brown sugar, purple sweet potato (beniimo), and even tropical fruit flavors, these cookies make for an excellent edible souvenir.
Beniimo Tart
The Beniimo tart is one of Okinawa’s most famous sweet treats. Made from the island’s native purple sweet potatoes, these tarts are both visually appealing and delicious. Packaged beautifully, they make perfect gifts for friends and family back home.
Where to Buy Souvenirs in Okinawa
Kokusai-dori Street
Kokusai-dori Street, often called “The Miracle Mile,” is the main shopping street in Naha, Okinawa’s capital. This vibrant area is filled with shops and stalls selling a wide variety of local souvenirs, from traditional crafts to tasty treats. Here, you can find the famous Heiwa Dori Shopping Arcade, a covered market perfect for souvenir hunting.
Makishi Public Market
Located just off Kokusai Street, the Makishi Public Market is an ideal place to discover Okinawa’s food culture. From fresh seafood to unique local products like Okinawan sea salt and seaweed, this market also features a second floor with small restaurants where you can enjoy delicious, freshly prepared dishes.
Onna no Eki Nakayukui Market
For a more rural shopping experience, visit the Onna no Eki Nakayukui Market in Onna Village. Here, you’ll find fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and even traditional Okinawan clothing. It’s a perfect stop for unique buys and local interaction.
Yachimun Street
Yachimun Street in Naha is famous for its pottery shops. ‘Yachimun’ means ceramics in the Okinawan dialect, and here you can discover a wide range of ceramic works from rustic household items to exquisite art pieces. The street is also home to the Tsuboya Pottery Museum, which offers demonstrations and insights into the history of Okinawa’s pottery.
Okinawa’s Traditional Crafts
Okinawan Textiles
Okinawa is known for its traditional textiles like Bashofu, a fabric made from banana fibers, and Ryukyu Kasuri, a type of cloth with distinct patterns. These handmade textiles can be found in local markets and high-end boutiques, and they often come in the form of clothing, table runners, and other decorative items.
Bingata Textiles
Bingata is a traditional dyeing method originating from Okinawa. The intricate and colorful designs often depict nature, such as flowers, birds, and ocean waves. Bingata textiles are used to create kimonos, accessories, and wall hangings, making them vibrant and cultural souvenirs.
Okinawan Lacquerware
Lacquerware from Okinawa, known for its high quality and beautiful designs, makes for an exquisite souvenir. This traditional craft involves coating objects with lacquer to create a glossy, durable finish. Look for items such as bowls, trays, and decorative pieces that showcase intricate artistry.
Culinary Souvenirs from Okinawa
Okinawan Sea Salt
Okinawan sea salt, rich in minerals, is different from regular table salt and is often used to enhance the flavor of various dishes. It’s a thoughtful gift for food lovers and can be found in beautifully packaged containers at local markets.
Okinawan Brown Sugar (Kokuto)
Kokuto, or Okinawan brown sugar, is made using traditional methods and is prized for its rich flavor and health benefits. This versatile sugar can be used in cooking, baking, or enjoyed as a snack on its own. It’s an excellent, health-conscious souvenir to bring back to your loved ones.
Local Snacks and Sweets
From sata andagi (Okinawan doughnuts) to beniimo (purple sweet potato) sweets, Okinawa offers a variety of delicious snacks and confections. These treats are often packaged in colorful boxes, making them perfect for gifting. Don’t forget to try Okinawan goya tea, made from bitter melon, which is a unique health beverage.
Your trip to Okinawa Main Island isn’t complete without bringing home a piece of its rich culture and flavors. Whether it’s traditional Ryukyu glass, flavorful awamori liquor, intricate textiles, or delectable local snacks, Okinawa offers an array of souvenirs that will remind you of your magical time on this island. Make sure to visit the local markets and boutiques to find these unique items and make your journey truly memorable.
