Aug 9, 2012 - 1 min read

Kokusai Dori, Naha

A bustling street with local delights and surprises

By Varsha Vaswati

Community writer

Kokusai Dori, also known as the Miracle Street symbolizing Okinawa’s revival after World War II

These creepy creatures hang around all the while

This isn’t a shrine but a cafe selling souvenir sweets

Habushu or Okinawan Snake wine ! Real pit vipers drowned to death in Awamori makes for this nutritious drink.

Bangles and bracelets made of Mango wood

Shisa Lions- Ryukuan decoration,always in pairs, the male with the open mouth wards off the evil while the female with the closed mouth keeps the goodness of the home within.

In various shapes and sizes, these bless your home.

Stretching for a good 1.5 km, Kokusai Dori is the famous shopping street in downtown Naha. Lined on either side by souvenir shops, glass-bead and jewelry shops, cafes, restaurants, bars and street vendors, this broad and bustling street has quite some creepy surprises to offer too. The shops and restaurants remain open late in night attracting tourists and locals alike. Along with sampling the local produce, one can enjoy the famous Okinawan music too.

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By Varsha Vaswati

Community writer

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Michael Flemming 11 years ago

The best time to visit Kokusai Dori is Sundays from 12:00 ~ 18:00 when the street itself is closed to vehicular traffic and is filled with even more vendors peddling wares from unique to mundane.

Kathryn Spoor 11 years ago

Kokisai Dori is surely a great place to visit for tourists and locals alike. Although the shopping and food options are very appealing don't forget to look just beyond the main road as there are a lot more fun places to explore that you might easily pass by if you weren't looking.

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