Sakaemachi Market
A lively, retro market street in Naha, Okinawa, famous for its atmospheric izakayas and local eateries, especially vibrant at night.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant nightlife and cozy bars
Sakaemachi Market
Best Time
Vibrant nightlife and cozy bars
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lively, retro market street in Naha, Okinawa, famous for its atmospheric izakayas and local eateries, especially vibrant at night.
"The real deal for local market and eateries! Don't expect English menus, but they will try hard to serve you."
🎯 Embrace the Night
The market truly comes alive after dark with izakayas and bars. Don't miss the chance to experience its unique nightlife!
🗣️ No English Menus
Most places don't have English menus, but locals are friendly and helpful. Point and smile to order!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Retro Alleyways
Throughout the market
Wander through narrow streets lined with bare bulbs and nostalgic signs, feeling like you've stepped back in time.
Izakaya Hopping
Various bars and eateries
Experience the local nightlife by hopping between small, cozy izakayas, enjoying drinks and Okinawan specialties.
Local Eateries
Inside the market
Discover hidden gems like fresh sushi bars, ebi bars, and charcoal-grilled beef tongue for an authentic taste.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Evening Vibe
Navigate Like a Local
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Night
The market truly comes alive after dark with izakayas and bars. Don't miss the chance to experience its unique nightlife!
🗣️ No English Menus
Most places don't have English menus, but locals are friendly and helpful. Point and smile to order!
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
Get lost in the charming alleyways and discover hidden cafes and unique shops. You might find a gem!
🍻 Bar Hopping Fun
The best way to experience Sakaemachi is by hopping between the many small izakayas. Enjoy the local vibe!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Night
The market truly comes alive after dark with izakayas and bars. Don't miss the chance to experience its unique nightlife!
🗣️ No English Menus
Most places don't have English menus, but locals are friendly and helpful. Point and smile to order!
🚶♀️ Wander and Explore
Get lost in the charming alleyways and discover hidden cafes and unique shops. You might find a gem!
🍻 Bar Hopping Fun
The best way to experience Sakaemachi is by hopping between the many small izakayas. Enjoy the local vibe!
💰 Affordable Eats
Enjoy delicious Okinawan food and drinks at reasonable prices. It's a great spot for budget-friendly dining.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sakaemachi Market is praised for its authentic, retro atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, offering a genuine taste of local Okinawan culture. While daytime offers a traditional market feel, the evening transforms into a lively hub of izakayas and bars. Some visitors note the lack of English menus and the market's evolving role as a traditional grocery spot.
"Sakaemachi Market is gradually losing its role of the traditional grocery and food market in the daytime because there is a large supermarket- Ryubo Food Market- which operates 24 hours a day, and instead it is popular at afternoon and at night for coffee house, bar, and other night life recreation activities. However, Sakaemachi Market has a few female seniors who were high school students during the war and who gather few times a year to observe for the classmates who died during the war because their classmates were recruited by government to serve as paramedical care for the injured soldiers.
Not many grocery or food stores operate in the traditional market for full day no more, and, if they do operate, they generally open in afternoon for few days a week. But for drink, coffee, and other recreational stores or diners, they do open from afternoon till the night."
Ben Hsu
"The real deal for local market and eateries! Dont expect they have english menus but they will try hard to serve you.eateries mostly opem at night,and inside market plenty of foods to explore.Small fresh sushi bar, ebi bar, charcoal grilled beef tongue are amongst the great found.explore!"
Arya Ng
"An old street markets with many Izakaya restaurant located. Its gets crowded as the night fall when the drinking crowds comes in."
Hao Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sakaemachi Market is a short walk from Kokusai Street, about a 15-minute stroll. It's also easily accessible by monorail, just a 5-minute walk from Anri Station. 
Yes, the nearest monorail station is Anri Station, which is just a 5-minute walk from the market. This makes it very convenient to reach.
The best way to explore is on foot. The market is a network of narrow streets, perfect for wandering and discovering hidden spots.
While specific parking details aren't widely available, it's generally recommended to use public transport due to the market's compact nature and narrow alleys.
Depending on your hotel's location in Naha, walking might be an option. It's about an 11-minute drive from Hotel Grand Consort Naha, so a walk might be feasible if you're nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sakaemachi Market is a public market and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely explore its streets and shops.
While some shops may open in the afternoon, the market truly comes alive in the evening. Many izakayas and bars operate from afternoon until late night.
Weekends tend to be busier, especially in the evenings, as locals and tourists alike gather for food and drinks. Special festivals can also increase crowds.
Daytime visits offer a glimpse of traditional market life with vendors selling produce and daily goods. However, the vibrant nightlife and bar scene are best experienced in the afternoon and evening.
Yes, Sakaemachi Market occasionally hosts festivals. For example, a festival was scheduled for November 30th, so it's worth checking local listings for upcoming events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find a variety of local Okinawan dishes, fresh sushi, ebi (shrimp) dishes, and charcoal-grilled beef tongue. Many small izakayas offer diverse menus.
While the market is known for its seafood and meat dishes, some eateries might offer vegetable-based sides or dishes. It's best to inquire at individual establishments.
Yes, there are cozy cafes within the market where you can enjoy coffee and relax. One reviewer mentioned finding a lovely cafe.
Ordering can be challenging as English menus are rare. However, locals are generally friendly and helpful, so pointing and using translation apps can assist you.
Must-tries include fresh sushi, ebi dishes, and charcoal-grilled beef tongue. Exploring the various izakayas for their specialties is also highly recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The narrow, retro alleyways with their nostalgic signs and bare bulbs offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially in the evening. Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the izakayas.
While generally accepted, it's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors or patrons in the izakayas.
The market has a unique charm both day and night. For a retro, atmospheric feel, evenings with the lights on are ideal. Daytime offers a more traditional market scene.
Focus on the 'Showa retro' atmosphere, the bustling nightlife, and the unique local eateries. Capturing the interactions between locals and vendors can also make for great shots.
A versatile lens like a 35mm or 50mm prime lens is great for capturing the atmosphere in low light. A wider lens can help with the narrow alleys.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While English menus are rare, the friendly nature of the locals can help. If you have older children interested in experiencing a more authentic, less touristy side of Okinawa, it can be a rewarding visit. Be prepared for a lively and sometimes crowded environment, especially on weekends.
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of expensive sit-down restaurants, you can sample various dishes and drinks from different establishments, getting a taste of everything. The lack of English menus also often correlates with lower prices compared to more tourist-oriented venues.
couples
+1Explore the charming streets hand-in-hand, discover hidden cafes, and soak in the nostalgic 'Showa retro' vibe together. It's a great alternative to the more mainstream tourist spots, offering a more local and authentic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dual Personality of Sakaemachi Market
The true essence of Sakaemachi Market emerges as the sun sets. The narrow alleyways transform into a lively hub of izakayas (Japanese pubs) and small bars, creating a deep and atmospheric nightlife scene. This is when the market buzzes with locals and visitors alike, seeking authentic Okinawan food and drinks.
+1This evening transformation makes it a prime destination for those looking to experience the local culture and enjoy a night out. The contrast between its daytime function and its nighttime persona is what makes Sakaemachi Market a unique and memorable destination.
Navigating the Culinary Landscape
Beyond specific dishes, the market is renowned for its numerous izakayas, offering a chance to engage in 'bar hopping.' This allows visitors to sample a variety of small plates and drinks, immersing themselves in the local social scene. The affordability of these establishments makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
+1Even for those not seeking alcohol, the market hosts cozy cafes, providing a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a coffee and soak in the surroundings. The key is to be open to exploration and communication, as the friendly locals are often willing to assist in navigating the menu and making recommendations.
A Glimpse into History and Community
The market's architecture itself reflects its post-war origins, with many buildings retaining a 'Showa retro' aesthetic. This nostalgic atmosphere is a major draw for visitors seeking an authentic, less commercialized experience of Okinawa. The narrow streets and old-fashioned signage contribute to this unique ambiance.
This blend of history, community, and evolving local life makes Sakaemachi Market more than just a place to eat or shop; it's a living testament to Okinawa's past and present.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit