Quick Okinawa Info
Makishi Public Market |
Updated on : March 31, 2005 |
Okinawa's largest marketplace is filled with Asian atmosphere
Makishi Public Market, affectionately called "Okinawa's kitchen," grew out of a small street-corner black market that sprang up in the area just after the end of the war. As the tin roof was extended, then extended some more, the market grew in its own unusual way to reach the popularity it enjoys today.
Now it is a two-story Machigwa (neighborhood market), Okinawa's largest marketplace, yet it still breathes the spirit and atmosphere of the desperate days of its beginnings and overflows with wonderful charm and energy. Over 400 shops dealing in Okinawan foodstuffs compete for space along the market's walkways and the spirited voices of the older ladies still working there after these many years echo back and forth. When you walk into the building, the first thing to catch your eye is the fresh fish corner with its brightly colored tropical fish laid out in rows. At the fresh meat corner, meat from all parts of the pig are sold - lumps of pork, pig's feet, pork on the bone and even Chiraga, the flesh of the pig's face. There are also shops specializing in beef, poultry and goat meat in this section. Pickles, tofu and Kamaboko (deep-fried minced fish meat) can be purchased here, too.
Around the building you'll find all kinds of produce in season: Okinawan vegetables like Goya (bitter melon), Hechima gourd and herbs like mugwort and fennel. Other offerings, some a bit exotic, like smoked Irabu sea snake (eaten for its medicinal values), dried bonito, vividly colored southern island fruits, Ukon (a medicinal turmeric plant) and herb teas catch the eye of tourists.
The second floor of the building contains the food court. Here you can enjoy everyday Okinawan dishes like Goya Chanpuru (bitter melon stir-fry) or Nabera Unbushi (Hechima gourd and tofu marinated in Miso) at very reasonable prices, and there are also restaurants that will filet and cook the fresh fish you just bought downstairs for a small fee.
Walking around the market is like a tour through Okinawa's culture and history and also gives you a glimpse of the Okinawan stomach, as it were. The market is in activity from around 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. It is closed on the 4th Sunday of the month. The fish shop section is closed the 2nd and 5th Sundays of each month.
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