Makishi Public Market, Public market in Naha, Japan
Makishi Public Market is a two-story public market hall in Naha featuring seafood, vegetables, tropical fruits, and local meat products on its ground floor. The upper level contains restaurants where shoppers can have their purchased items prepared by professional cooks.
The market grew from an informal trading site after World War II and became officially established as a public market hall in 1951. This founding marked the formalization of commerce in the city and reflected Okinawa's economic recovery.
Older female vendors shape the market with traditional Okinawan sales practices, creating an energetic selling environment through warm greetings and regular samples of local foods. This approach keeps alive customary ways of trading that have defined the area for generations.
The hall sits near Makishi Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail, making it convenient to access. Many vendors speak limited English, so carrying a translation app or simple phrases on your phone can help when shopping for items.
A specialized lift system connects the market stalls below to restaurants above, allowing freshly purchased seafood or meat to be transported directly upstairs for cooking. This practical setup lets shoppers select raw ingredients and have them prepared immediately by professional cooks.
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