From Ryukyu Kingdom era to Meiji era this was the site of the Shuri machi (Shuri Public Market) and since this was the largest public market around Shuri it became known as Ufumachi (Great Market) and the area around it as Machibata (next to the market). In this market, one could buy fresh foods such as meat, fish and vegetables, as well as commodities such as used clothing and vases needed for daily life.

Basic information

Address

903-0824 On the grounds of Ikehata Shuri Naha Okinawa

Business hours

Nothing in particular

Close day

Nothing in particular

Charge

Free

Parking

None

Access information

Along the Ryutan-dori. Next to the Shurijo-Iriguchi bus stop.

Additional Information

Academic information

From Ryukyu Kingdom era to Meiji era, this was the site of the Shuri machi (Shuri Public Market), and since this was the largest public market around Shuri, it became known as Ufumachi (Great Market) and the area around it as Machibata (“next to the market”). In this market, one could buy fresh foods such as meat, fish and vegetables, as well as commodities, such as used clothing and vases needed for daily life. In addition, the merchandise was sold and also brought from the outlying town. So the word ”Nido yuban” (cook the leftover food) has survived.
After the Meiji era, as the market moved to near Tamaudun, the Machibata area was renamed Ikehata (next to the pond), after Ryutan pond, in 1920.

Quote

Naha City Museum of History