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Walking through Heiwa Street
August 1st, 2010
Heiwa Street is one of the most energetic shopping arcades in Okinawa. It’s laying about 350 meters from by Kokusai Street to Tsuboya District. Its exotic and energetic atmosphere, which is much different from a main street, attracts tourists from other prefectures of Japan and over sea countries.
The history of Heiwa Street started in 1948, after the World War II. At the time, a population of Naha city rapidly increased and street stalls spread over in Kainan district and Makishi district. In 1951, an association of shop owners raked fund for asphalt concrete to cover the street, and the street was named as “Heiwa Dori” by public participation. 平和通り(Heiwa Street) means Peace Street in English. The name itself means a lot to Okinawan people. After experiencing horrible war, people really needed peace.
Heiwa Street became a shopping arcade in 1979. More than 200 shops offer various kinds of merchandises, so you can find most of what you want in this street. Around near Kokusai Street, there are many souvenir shops for Okinawan traditional artworks and Okinawan food. As walking towards Tsuboya District, there are more shops for locals. Many branches makes Heiwa Street like a maze, and these byways attract tourists, too. Have a fun to get lost in shopping labyrinth!
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