Photos by Shoji Kudaka ()
On March 19, Makishi Public Market, a.k.a. “The Kitchen of Okinawa,” officially reopened after almost four years of renovation. During the renewal period, it was operated in a makeshift building nearby.
Makishi Public Market is recognized as a go-to place to buy fresh seafood, meat, pickles, and souvenirs. The market is a popular attraction for tourists because the colorful fish and various seafood displays are a feast for the eyes.
The market’s new three-story building houses 84 shops in total, including butcher shops, seafood shops, and many restaurants. While the first floor is allocated to the shops, the second floor accommodates the eateries. You can even shop for food on the first floor and let the restaurants cook it fresh for you, which is known as “mochiage (lift up/bring up).” Now popular among tourists, mochiage was originally modeled after a service practiced in Singapore and other Asian countries.
According to its website, Makishi Public Market has its roots in a black market that sprouted after World War II. It wasn’t until 1950, when Makishi officially opened as a market. This recent renovation was its second after a rebuilding in 1972, the same year Okinawa was reverted to Japan.
Makishi is well-known across the island and the mainland and it’s reopening has been publicized nationwide. If you are familiar with how the market was before the renovation, this brand-new building may make you a little sentimental. The old building, which used to show its age unapologetically, was always busy with locals and tourists packed in under the fading signboards. The energetic mood increased with each store clerk raising their voice to announce the specials and welcome customers. The hustle and bustle were without a doubt what made a visit to Makishi memorable.
Though the new venue feels different than the shabby charm of the old market, somethings will never change. Here among the fancy new signs and storefronts, you’ll still hear the old sounds drawing you in. The fish and seafood look as delicious as ever. And, of course, tourists are back crowding in to get a taste of Okinawa.
During my visit, visitors were marveling at the fish shining in various colors and the sea caviar (sea grapes) waving in the water tanks as they would under the sea. On the second floor, a crowd was enjoying local soba and goya champuru, or bitter melon stir fry.
According to local newspaper Ryukyu Shimpo, before the renovation the market was welcoming 5,000 to 6,500 visitors daily. I don’t know what the number is now, but it sure feels like “The Kitchen of Okinawa” is back in full swing.
Makishi Public Market
GPS Coordinates: N 26.214608, E 127.688300
Hours: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. (hours vary by shop)
*Last call for restaurants on the second floor at 8 p.m.
*Closed on the fourth Sunday of every month, during New Year/Lunar New Year celebrations, and Obon (open every day in December). This varies by shop.
