Naha Airport’s first floor actually has a local convenience store selling Okinawan bento boxes. Its name? ‘Convenience Store Sharon’. Most people probably only know Lawson as the airport’s convenience store, but once you discover the quietly tucked-away ‘Sharon’ near the center, you’ll be hooked.
Point 1: Where is the location of ‘Convenience Store Sharon’?
Naha Airport is the gateway to Okinawa travel. From the moment you arrive, you’re enveloped in a tropical atmosphere. At the same time, many people probably think, “First, I want to catch my breath,” or “I’m hungry right after arriving.”
That’s when you should take note of the local convenience store “Sharon” on the airport’s first floor. It’s located right in the middle of the first-floor area where the JAL and ANA arrival gates are lined up.
While many might think of the major chain Lawson when imagining a convenience store on the airport arrival floor, there’s actually another option rooted in the local community right nearby.
This “Sharon” might seem a bit unexpected to first-time visitors. While its exterior and displays appear like a typical convenience store at first glance, it’s actually a hidden gem frequented by local airport staff and regulars. Despite being in the tourist-heavy environment of an airport, it has an atmosphere that feels like a slice of local life.
Point 2: What kinds of things are sold at Convenience Store Sharon?
Like any typical convenience store, it carries a wide range of items, including drinks, snacks, and daily necessities. But where this store truly shines is its lunchbox section during lunchtime.
The sight of shelves stacked high with “Uchinaa Bento” piled up like mountains, extending all the way outside the store, amazes visitors.
The lineup is incredibly diverse. From staples like pork and egg rice balls and champuru bento boxes to hearty side dish bento boxes packed full of fried foods like karaage and croquettes, there’s something for everyone.
Adding to the Okinawan spirit, the style is all about “no plain rice in sight” – the generous toppings completely cover the rice. It’s not just satisfying to eat; the moment you open the lid, you feel the boldness that says, “This is the Okinawan bento.”
Considering the price tops out at around 600 yen, it’s truly impressive.
Whether you’re just starting your Okinawa trip or heading home after enjoying it, you’re sure to be impressed.
Leveraging its airport location, the shop also offers tourist-friendly options like taco rice and curry, adding to the fun of choosing. While popular with tourists, you’ll also see airport staff and nearby workers buying lunch daily—a heartwarming, local scene that’s sure to make you smile.
Point 3: Can you actually eat that “Kilo Bento” at the Convenience Store, Sharon?!
Among the many bento options, one that deserves attention is the “Kiro-ben from Tomari, Naha City.” Those familiar with Okinawa may have heard of it—the “Kiro-ben,” as its name suggests, boasts a “one-kilogram-class” volume and has long been beloved by local foodies.
The Kiro-ben features an astonishingly packed array of fried dishes held together by a single rubber band. Not only is the white rice hidden from view, but it comes in a separate pack as part of the set.
The sheer surprise of encountering this local specialty at the airport makes it well worth trying.
They reportedly source these bento daily from eight different vendors, an effort that commands respect.
Furthermore, savoring a “Sharon” bento in the airport lounge is a truly connoisseur-style experience. Some seasoned travelers even check in early, then relax in the lounge until departure, enjoying this deeply local bento!
While dining options outside the lounge can be limited in the airport, tables on the observation deck upstairs undoubtedly offer an even more authentic local feel.
Eating it on the return flight while reminiscing about your fun Okinawa trip might just become a new way to wrap up your journey.
The major appeal of “Sharon” is that it lets you experience a slice of authentic Okinawan life, something you won’t find at major chain convenience stores.
While Naha Airport is dominated by tourist shops and national chains, the presence of “Sharon” amidst them, offering a genuine slice of local daily life, is truly eye-opening.
If you’ve just arrived and feel a little peckish, or want to try a locally unique bento, be sure to stop by. From your very first meal of the trip, you’ll encounter Okinawa’s local charm.
