CityBuddy
Kokusai Dori
Best time to visit
Early evening captures the vibrant neon lights and lively street performances, while avoiding the midday heat and peak tourist crowds. Visiting during festivals or weekends shows the street at its liveliest.
Budget tips
Browsing the shops and enjoying street food is largely free, with many affordable dining options under $10, making it easy to explore on a budget. Look for combo food deals and early evening happy hour specials to save on meals and drinks.
Recommended for
Food lovers, Nightlife enthusiasts, Cultural explorers, Shopping fans
Plan your visit
2-3 hours
About
Quick facts: A bustling street with over 300 shops, restaurants, and bars lines this vibrant area, making it the heart of Okinawa's nightlife and shopping scene. It attracts millions of visitors annually, especially during festivals when traditional music and dance light up the avenue.
Highlights: Neon signs splash color across the street at night, reflecting off the tropical rain that often falls, creating a shimmering, lively atmosphere. Local vendors offer handmade Okinawan crafts and rare street foods like sata andagi, a sweet deep-fried doughnut, adding an authentic flavor to the experience.
Insider tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the long street and trying many foods.
- Capture photos at dusk when neon lights begin to glow and the street fills with energy.
- Skip large chain stores for unique crafts and souvenirs from small local shops.
- Visit weekdays or early evenings to avoid heavy crowds and long waits at popular eateries.
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Okinawa, Japan, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
