I’ve found the perfect shopping spots along Kokusai Dori that you won’t want to miss.
Start at Daiichi Makishi Public Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and local delicacies, then cool off at Blue Seal Ice Cream‘s flagship store with their unique Okinawan flavors.
The Traditional Arts and Crafts Center offers authentic Ryukyuan treasures, while Don Quijote’s 24-hour wonderland keeps the shopping excitement going all night.
For a touch of luxury, Mitsukoshi Department Store blends modern fashion with traditional Japanese hospitality.
These five destinations are just the beginning of what this vibrant mile-long street has in store for curious shoppers.
1) Daiichi Makishi Public Market
Located just off Kokusai Dōri, Daiichi Makishi Public Market serves as Naha’s culinary heartbeat.
I’ll tell you right now – you won’t find a more authentic Okinawan food experience than wandering through this recently renovated marketplace, where vendors proudly display everything from fresh parrotfish to local delicacies like goya.
What I love most is the market’s unique “catch and cook” service: pick your seafood downstairs, then head up to the second floor where restaurants will transform your selection into a mouthwatering meal.
You’ll find the market easily accessible from Makishi Station, just an 8-minute walk away, and you can use your OKICA IC card for convenient public transportation access.
While you’re exploring the first floor’s treasure trove of ingredients, don’t miss the free samples – they’re your chance to taste unfamiliar Okinawan specialties before buying.
Like Osaka’s family-friendly attractions, this market offers an exciting cultural experience that both parents and children can enjoy together.
2) Blue Seal Ice Cream
Every Okinawan knows Blue Seal Ice Cream as the island’s beloved frozen treat, born in 1948 to serve American military personnel but now cherished by locals and tourists alike.
I’ll let you in on a secret – you’ll find their flagship store right on Kokusai Street, where they serve over 20 unique flavors that perfectly capture Okinawa’s essence.
The shop makes for a perfect spot to pick up signature souvenirs to bring back home for friends and family.
You absolutely must try their signature beni-imo (purple sweet potato) or shikuwasa (Okinawan lime) ice cream, which I’d say perfectly bridges American-style ice cream with local flavors.
When you visit between 10 AM and 10:30 PM, don’t limit yourself to just ice cream – their menu boasts more than 40 types of crepes and invigorating tapioca drinks.
Located just 9 minutes from Miebashi Station, it’s the perfect pit stop during your Kokusai Street adventures.
For the complete Okinawan food experience, make sure to pair your ice cream with some of the region’s other traditional delicacies.

3) Traditional Arts and Crafts Stores
After satisfying your sweet tooth, you’ll want to immerse yourself in Okinawa’s rich cultural heritage at the Traditional Arts and Crafts Center in the Tembusu building.
I love how you can try your hand at five different traditional crafts, from shaping clay on a pottery wheel to creating vibrant Bingata textiles.
For just ¥3,000, you can channel your inner artist in a hands-on session lasting up to two hours.
I’d recommend reserving your spot in advance for one of the three daily sessions.
While waiting for a hearty bowl of Okinawa soba, you can explore the center’s pottery studios.
While you’re waiting for your handmade masterpiece to be fired and shipped, explore the exhibition hall where you’ll find stunning works by living national treasures.
Trust me, you won’t leave empty-handed – the sales area offers an incredible selection of authentic Ryukyuan crafts to take home.
The Okinawan culture deeply values artistic expression through traditional crafts passed down through generations.
4) Don Quijote

Stepping into Don Quijote, known locally as “Donki,” I’m always amazed by its sensory-rich atmosphere that hits you the moment you enter – from the playful moray eel aquarium at the entrance to the maze of packed shelves stretching in every direction.
You’ll find everything from Japanese snacks and beauty products to electronics and cosplay costumes in this 24-hour shopping paradise.
I recommend starting at the beauty section, where you can stock up on premium Japanese brands like Shiseido and Hada Labo at great prices.
With their focus on budget-friendly prices, Don Quijote is perfect for travelers looking to maximize their shopping while keeping costs down.
Whether you’re hunting for unique souvenirs, kitchen appliances, or those hard-to-find Japanese supplements, you’ll discover them here.
Don’t worry about payment – they accept all major credit cards, and you can shop anytime since they’re open around the clock.
Located just a short distance from Kuromon Market hotels, this shopping destination is perfect for late-night retail therapy.
5) Mitsukoshi Department Store
Standing elegantly on Kokusai Street, Mitsukoshi Department Store represents a legacy of Japanese retail excellence dating back to 1673.
You’ll find this retail giant perfectly positioned along Naha’s bustling shopping district, where it continues to uphold its reputation for exceptional service and quality merchandise.
I always tell visitors they can’t miss the store’s distinctive architectural presence, which seamlessly blends modern retail convenience with traditional Japanese hospitality.
While you’re exploring the various departments, you’ll discover everything from local Okinawan crafts to high-end fashion brands.
The store’s prime location near Makishi Station makes it incredibly convenient to visit, especially if you’re planning to take advantage of the special deals during Sunday’s Transit Mall events.
Don’t forget to check out their restaurant floor, where you can experience their long-standing tradition of excellent dining services.
Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for tourists staying at nearby luxury hotels along Kokusai Street.
The store’s strategic location makes it a perfect base to explore must-see spots throughout Okinawa.