Naha is a fantastic place for anyone interested in local markets, food culture, and authentic Okinawan experiences. Unlike many tourist-heavy spots, Naha’s markets buzz with daily life, fresh seafood, and local flavor. If you’re looking to get hands-on, try sushi-making directly in the lively Makishi Public Market or enjoy a spirited bar hop at Sakaemachi. We especially love the Sushi Making Experience Class in Naha Makishi Public Market because it combines a market tour with the chance to create your own sushi, learning from local vendors. It’s perfect if you’re interested in culinary skills and want to connect with Okinawa’s seafood traditions.
If you’d rather explore local nightlife, the Sakaemachi Market Bar Hopping Tour offers a lively way to experience Naha’s friendly bar scene and historic market atmosphere. For a balance of food, history, and local color, the bar-hopping tour is a great choice, especially for those wanting to mingle and enjoy Okinawan bar culture.
Quick Overview
This list features three top shopping and market tours in Naha, ranging from sushi classes to bar hopping. The tours include market visits, sushi-making lessons, and bar hopping experiences—each offering a unique glimpse into Okinawa’s daily life. Check out the options below to find the one best suited to your interests.
1. Sushi Making Experience Class in Naha Makishi Public Market
At number one, this sushi-making class offers a rare chance to learn how sushi is made with fresh Okinawan fish straight from the market. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and takes place in the heart of Naha’s Makishi Public Market, which is renowned for its lively seafood stalls. During this class, you’ll not only visit the market but also get hands-on experience with the instructor guiding you step by step.
What makes this tour stand out is the interaction with local vendors—an uncommon experience for visitors. Plus, you get to enjoy your sushi, accompanied by sake, for an authentic taste of Okinawa. The tour includes a bonus gift of tenugui towels, adding a touch of Okinawan culture. Guests consistently rate this experience 4.5 out of 5, praising the friendly instructor and the chance to learn a valuable culinary skill in a relaxed setting.
This class is well suited for food lovers, families, or anyone eager to understand Okinawa’s seafood cuisine. The price is $176.46 per person, offering good value considering the market visit, expert instruction, and the sushi you get to eat.
Bottom Line: For an interactive, culinary experience that combines market exploration with sushi-making, this tour is hard to beat. It’s ideal if you want to take home a new skill and enjoy some delicious food.
2. Naha Makishi Public Market : Sushi making experience
At number two, this sushi-making experience at Makishi Market offers a similarly immersive experience, but with a slightly higher rating of 5 stars. This tour emphasizes the market visit, sushi creation, and social dining experience, making it a favorite for travelers who want a lively, hands-on lesson.
Participants will tour the market, see where Okinawan fish is sold, then learn to make sushi from a knowledgeable instructor. The class concludes with everyone eating their sushi together, pairing it with sake or beer. Impressively, children are welcome to join, making it a family-friendly activity. The tour also includes an interpreter, ensuring clear communication for international visitors.
Reviews highlight the instructor’s patience and skill, with one review stating, “The teacher was kind, patient, and skilled at teaching us to handle and make the sushi.” For $176 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially for those who enjoy cooking classes with a social component.
Bottom Line: If you seek a fun, engaging sushi class with a friendly atmosphere in Naha, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for couples, families, or anyone interested in Japanese culinary skills.
$176 per person
3. Sakaemachi Market Bar Hopping Tour
At number three, the Sakaemachi Market Bar Hopping Tour offers a different kind of local experience, focusing on Okinawa’s bar scene and historic market atmosphere. This tour, priced at $57.83, lasts about 3 hours and is ideal for those wanting to explore Naha’s nightlife and enjoy authentic local drinks.
Built in 1955, Sakaemachi Market retains its old-fashioned charm and has been named Japan’s top Yokocho (local bar area). The tour guides you through a selection of small bars, allowing you to taste local beverages and mingle with locals. It’s a wonderful way to experience Okinawa’s laid-back social scene and discover hidden bar gems.
While there are no reviews yet, the experience promises an intimate glimpse into Naha’s bar culture. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy casual drinking, socializing, and exploring local neighborhoods with a local guide leading the way.
Bottom Line: For those interested in Okinawa’s nightlife and authentic bar culture, this tour offers a relaxed, friendly introduction to Sakaemachi Market’s lively atmosphere.
$57.83 per person
How to Choose
When deciding among these tours, consider your interests and travel style. If you love cooking and want a hands-on culinary experience, the sushi-making classes are excellent choices—perfect for foodies and families. For those more interested in socializing and local nightlife, the bar hopping tour at Sakaemachi provides a fun, authentic insight into Okinawa’s social scene.
Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the bar tour for its lower price and longer duration, while culinary fans should look at the sushi classes for their rich experience and culture. Booking early is wise, especially during peak travel seasons, as these popular experiences tend to fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Naha offers a tempting mix of market visits, culinary adventures, and lively nightlife—each tour providing a different slice of Okinawa life. For a comprehensive experience, the sushi-making tours stand out, especially if you want to learn a new skill and enjoy fresh seafood. The Sakaemachi bar tour appeals to those wanting to soak up local atmosphere and meet people.
Whether you’re after a culinary lesson, a cultural stroll, or an evening of drinks, these tours can enrich your visit to Naha. Consider your interests, budget, and travel schedule to choose what fits best. And don’t forget—booking early will help ensure you secure your spot in these popular experiences.