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Central Okinawa (Chatan·Urasoe), Okinawa — where to start?

Today's weather in Central Okinawa (Chatan·Urasoe)
Tue Oct 27, 15:53 Japan now
27° Average temperature
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Tax-free & shopping guide

Tax-freeFrom November 1, it switches to a 'refund system.' You pay tax-inclusive prices in stores and get the tax back after a customs check at the airport when you leave. Be sure to bring your passport.

SouvenirsYomitan yachimun (Okinawan pottery), goods from American Village, beni-imo sweets

Shopping tipChatan's American Village stays open into the night, while many workshops in Yomitan's Yachimun Village close early.

Shopping spots in Central Okinawa (Chatan·Urasoe)
Getting around Central Okinawa (Chatan·Urasoe)

Rental carSights like American Village, Cape Manzamo and Yomitan are far apart, so a rental car is recommended

BusRoute buses along National Route 58 (No. 120, etc.) — Naha, Chatan, Onna

OtherRoute 58 gets badly congested at rush hour, so leave extra time

Couldn't load live weather, so average values are shown.

Shopping

Shopping streets & markets in Central Okinawa (Chatan·Urasoe), Okinawa · 2

Tax-free shopping changes from November 1, 2026

Instead of tax being deducted at the store, you now pay including tax and get it refunded later.

  1. Show your passport at a tax-free store and pay the tax-inclusive price
  2. When leaving Japan, customs at the airport checks your passport and purchases
  3. Once checked, the store (or a refund agent) refunds the consumption tax

Minimum spend and refund methods can vary by store, so ask before paying.

Shopping·FunCentral Okinawa (Chatan·Urasoe)

Mihama American Village

美浜アメリカンビレッジ

An American-style shopping and dining complex; the sea is beautiful at sunset.

Car
Shopping complexCentral Okinawa (Chatan·Urasoe)

AEON Mall Okinawa Rycom

イオンモール沖縄ライカム

Okinawa's largest mall, with a big aquarium tank.

Car · Bus

Local products & gift ideas

3 gifts to bring home from Okinawa and where to buy them · Central Okinawa (Chatan·Urasoe) first

SweetsKokusai-dori

Chinsuko

ちんすこう

Traditional Ryukyu cookies baked with lard, in salt and brown sugar flavors.

Most are also sold at souvenir shops in airports and major stations. Check hours and stock via the Google Maps links.