Japan's exotic southern islands food
The food of Okinawa, Japan's southernmost prefecture, is distinctly different from that in other parts of the country. This is not really surprising, given the climate, geography and history of these subtropical islands. The air is warm and humid, the vegetation is lush, and you are never far from the azure waters and coral reefs of the surrounding ocean.
Closer to the Asian mainland than to the Japanese heartland, the Okinawa islands used to be an independent kingdom known as the Ryukyus, which flourished thanks to their position on the trade routes linking Japan with China, the Korean Peninsula and Southeast Asia. Inevitably, it was colored by influences from outside, such as in its architecture, and the bright colors of the traditional clothing. But nowhere are they more evident than in the food markets, restaurants and people's dining tables.
Makishi Public Market, which is a part of locals’ everyday life, is the place to go if you’re looking to enjoy Okinawan food and interact with locals. It’s a popular tourist destination, where you can find abundant colorful fresh fish, huge cuts of pork, and tropical fruit and vegetables. Here’s our report on this charming market!
Closer to the Asian mainland than to the Japanese heartland, the Okinawa islands used to be an independent kingdom known as the Ryukyus, which flourished thanks to their position on the trade routes linking Japan with China, the Korean Peninsula and Southeast Asia. Inevitably, it was colored by influences from outside, such as in its architecture, and the bright colors of the traditional clothing. But nowhere are they more evident than in the food markets, restaurants and people's dining tables.
Makishi Public Market, which is a part of locals’ everyday life, is the place to go if you’re looking to enjoy Okinawan food and interact with locals. It’s a popular tourist destination, where you can find abundant colorful fresh fish, huge cuts of pork, and tropical fruit and vegetables. Here’s our report on this charming market!
