Kokusai Dori

Kokusai means International and Dori means Street in Japanese.  This is a 1.6km road popular with tourists and locals alike, which makes it an ideal location for people watching.  It was the central point for black market trading after World War II and has remained a lively meeting place ever since.  Today the street is lined with souvenir shops, restaurants and bars.

Kokusai Dori is one of the best places to buy souvenirs to take home with you as you can find all the best souvenirs Okinawa has to offer in one place.  There are numerous stores to browse through selling all sorts of unique and not so unique trinkets.  Some stores to try include Kusuya, which is a liquor store, KaiSou a jewellery store, and the Habu Box where you can find original Okinawan T-shirts.  Another unique store to have a look around is Yukisio, which sells salt.

The two most popular types of restaurants on Kokusai Dori are steak restaurants and those selling Okinawan food, often accompanied by a show featuring local music and dance.  The Sam’s chain is one of the most popular.  Portions are generous and the steak is well cooked although it is a little pricey.  Of the Okinawan food restaurants including a show some charge for their more elaborate shows these include Angama.  Others include a free show and an example of this type is the Nikou. 

Of the numerous bars, two to try include The Smuggler's Irish Pub and Eager Beaver, a Canadian pub.