If you need to buy something during your stay on Okinawa, try shopping at a local store as opposed to a convenience store or chain supermarket. Prices might be a little more expensive, but you will be supporting local communities and you can get a taste of Okinawan life as these mini stores are often the "gathering place" for friendly conversations. Most local stores ("Baiten") are very simple but their shelves carry a myriad of local products. The owners are friendly and you may even make a friend or two if you are there at the right time!

Mr. and Mrs. Afuso from the Maeda Baiten in Onna-son