Where to shop

Aguri Shop Shimachurara Opened just over two years ago in Nago City, this souvenir shop deals only in locally produced items, with the emphasis on skincare and health products. Maybe you’ll discover the source of the Okinawans’ longevity…

Makishi Market No need to look beyond this buzzing market for anything edible. Hunt out a good miso paste from Tamanaha Miso. There’s also a coveted version blended with pork. Awamori flavoured with chilli is a useful store-sauce and a popular one. For your best friend (enemy?), buy a can of Okinawan Spam. The island developed a taste for it during the post-war occupation by the US.

Tsuboya pottery Street (Off the main Kokusai Street). If you fancy a couple of shisas to put outside the front porch when back home, head here. But also look out for fine pottery by ceramic masters. And be sure to try a bukubuku (cold foamed tea) in a gallery café.