Kekkeke Oni-san’s Izakaya Kingdom :: Naha, Okinawa

When exploring Kokusai Dori in Naha, Okinawa, one themed izakaya you must know about is “Oni-san.” It's a large, boldly styled izakaya that won't break the bank, and stepping inside is nothing short of surprising, which is why “Oni-san” has become the go-to hangout spot for Naha’s youth.

Don’t let the eerie staircase at the entrance of “Oni-san” scare you off—its interior is actually thoughtfully designed, with seasonal decorations that change throughout the year to offer customers a fresh surprise each visit. The staff is also exceptionally friendly, occasionally cracking harmless jokes with patrons to keep the atmosphere lively.

Proud to be the kindest and most skilled cooking “oni” in Okinawa, the restaurant uses the freshest local fish and seasonal ingredients to create its dishes. Among them, the most unique is a delicious and amusing dish called “Ojizou-san” (Jizo Statue). When you open it, you’ll find an extra-long sausage standing upright like a certain male appendage, paired with two fried meatballs—truly lifelike. Ladies can’t help but shriek when they see it.