Last Updated on 2025 年 4 月 20 日 by 総合編集組
Ultimate Guide to Okinawa’s Don Quijote Stores in Naha: 2025 Edition
Why Don Quijote is a Must-Visit in Okinawa
Don Quijote, Japan’s iconic discount store known as “Donki,” is a treasure trove for travelers seeking unique Japanese products, affordable souvenirs, and Okinawa-exclusive items. Located in the heart of Naha, the capital of Okinawa, the two prominent Don Quijote stores—Kokusai Dori (International Street) and Tsubogawa—offer unparalleled convenience with extended hours, diverse product ranges, and tax-free shopping for tourists. This guide provides an in-depth look at both stores, highlighting their unique features, must-buy items, and practical tips to optimize your shopping experience during your 2025 Okinawa trip, especially during peak seasons like Golden Week.
Kokusai Dori Store: The Heart of Naha’s Shopping Scene
Situated on Naha’s bustling Kokusai Dori, the Kokusai Dori Don Quijote is a five-story shopping haven operating 24/7, making it ideal for travelers with tight schedules. Its prime location, steps from hotels and tourist attractions, ensures easy access. The store’s floors are thoughtfully organized:
- Basement (B1): Japanese snacks, groceries, and basic pharmaceuticals.
- 1st Floor: Okinawa-exclusive souvenirs like Beniimo Tarts and Chinsuko cookies.
- 2nd Floor: Cosmetics, tech accessories, and stationery.
- 3rd Floor: Affordable clothing, shoes, and toys.
- 4th Floor: A tax-free zone offering a wide range of products, from beauty gadgets to luxury bags, with a tax-exemption counter open until 2 a.m.
Notable quirks include two aquarium displays near the entrance, one housing a striking Giant Moray eel, adding a touch of surprise to the shopping experience. For time-pressed visitors, prioritize B1, 1F, and 4F to cover essentials and souvenirs. However, the store’s popularity, especially during peak hours (6 p.m. to 9 p.m.), means it can get crowded. Experts recommend shopping after midnight or early morning to avoid crowds, particularly during Golden Week in 2025.
Tsubogawa Store: A Convenient Alternative
Located near Tsubogawa Station on Naha’s monorail, the Tsubogawa Don Quijote is a great option for those staying outside the city center or traveling by car. Open from 8 a.m. to 3 a.m., it caters to early risers and late-night shoppers.
The store offers parking (300 yen/hour, with 60 minutes free for purchases over 300 yen), making it self-drive-friendly. While it shares similar product offerings with the Kokusai Dori store, Tsubogawa tends to be less crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Its proximity to Naha Airport also makes it a strategic stop for last-minute shopping before departure. Like its counterpart, it sees peak crowds from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with quieter hours after midnight.
Must-Buy Okinawa Souvenirs and Japanese Essentials
Don Quijote is a one-stop shop for Okinawa’s signature products and Japanese favorites. Recommended Okinawa-exclusive items include:
- Beniimo Tarts (Okashi Goten): A sweet purple yam dessert.
- Chinsuko Cookies (Nanpudo or Arakaki Kami): Traditional shortbread with unique flavors like salt.
- Awamori: Okinawa’s distilled spirit, with brands like Zuisen and Zanpa offering distinct profiles.
- Sanpin Tea: A refreshing jasmine tea by Okinawa Pokka.
- Shikuwasa Products: Citrus-based juices and snacks unique to Okinawa.
Beyond local specialties, Don Quijote stocks popular Japanese drugstore items (e.g., Anessa sunscreen, Rohto eye drops), KitKat’s Japan-exclusive flavors, and travel essentials like Samsonite luggage and Panasonic hairdryers. Inventory varies, so grab coveted items when spotted. Chinese-speaking staff are often available to assist.
Shopping Tips for a Seamless Experience
To maximize your Don Quijote experience:
- Tax-Free Shopping: Foreign tourists spending over 5,000 yen (pre-tax) on consumables or general goods qualify for tax exemptions. Present your passport at checkout, and visit the 4F tax-exemption counter at Kokusai Dori (open until 2 a.m.).
- Avoid DCC Traps: When paying by credit card, always choose to settle in Japanese yen (JPY) to avoid unfavorable exchange rates from Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC).
- Use Coupons: Download Don Quijote’s tourist coupons from their official site (japanportal.donki-global.com) for discounts.
- Timing is Key: Shop late at night (after 10 p.m.) or early morning to dodge crowds, especially in April 2025 during the beach season or Golden Week.
Integrating Don Quijote into Your 2025 Okinawa Itinerary
Don Quijote complements a well-rounded Okinawa trip. In April, as beaches open, stock up on sunscreen, sunglasses, or beach gear. For festivals like the Ryukyu Kaiensai, grab snacks or portable cushions. During Golden Week, shift shopping to late hours to preserve daytime for sightseeing. Don Quijote’s vast selection of Okinawa souvenirs ensures you can bring home local flavors like black sugar candies or Orion beer-themed goodies to share with friends.
Conclusion
Naha’s Don Quijote stores are more than just shops—they’re cultural experiences blending convenience, variety, and Okinawa’s unique charm. Whether you’re navigating the vibrant Kokusai Dori store or the accessible Tsubogawa location, this guide equips you with the insights to shop smarter, save time, and make the most of your 2025 Okinawa adventure.
