Ogimi Shikuwasa Park

Ogimi Shikuwasa Park is located in Ogimi Village on the northern part of Okinawa's main island, an area renowned for having one of the world's highest concentrations of centenarians. The park celebrates the shikuwasa, a small green citrus fruit native to Okinawa and Taiwan that has been cultivated in this region for centuries. The village of Ogimi has positioned itself as Japan's leading producer of shikuwasa, with the fruit becoming integral to both the local economy and the area's reputation for longevity.

The shikuwasa citrus holds significant cultural importance in Okinawan cuisine and traditional medicine. Rich in nobiletine and other flavonoids, the fruit has been linked to the exceptional longevity of Okinawa's residents. Local farmers have cultivated shikuwasa groves throughout Ogimi's hillsides for generations, with the village producing approximately 60% of Japan's total shikuwasa crop. The fruit's harvest season peaks between September and December, when the small green citrus contains the highest concentration of beneficial compounds.

The park offers visitors direct engagement with shikuwasa cultivation and processing. The facility includes a processing plant where visitors can observe the production of shikuwasa juice and other products through viewing windows. The on-site shop stocks an extensive range of shikuwasa products including fresh fruit, pure juice, vinegars, cosmetics, and confections. Visitors can participate in seasonal activities such as fruit picking during harvest months and juice-making demonstrations. The park also features a tasting area where guests can sample various shikuwasa products and learn about different applications of the fruit in Okinawan cuisine.

The park is accessible by car via Route 58, approximately 90 minutes north of Naha City. Public transportation options are limited, with infrequent bus service from Nago City requiring a transfer. Most visitors opt for rental cars or organized tours from Naha or Nago. Admission is free to the park grounds and shop, though fees apply for specific activities such as fruit picking or workshop participation. The facility provides free parking and is wheelchair accessible throughout the main areas.