The reputation of Okinawans for living long, healthy lives has put their lifestyle and dietary choices under the global spotlight. While much attention focuses on their diet of sweet potatoes and plant-based foods, the island's unique drinking habits are equally important. From ubiquitous jasmine tea to potent traditional spirits, the beverages of Okinawa offer a window into a culture that prioritizes health and community.
The Ubiquitous Sanpin-cha: Okinawa's Jasmine Tea
Perhaps no drink is more emblematic of Okinawa than sanpin-cha. This is not your typical mainland Japanese green tea. Instead, sanpin-cha is a blend of lightly fermented tea leaves and jasmine flowers, a testament to the island's historical trade connections with China. Its floral aroma and less bitter, lighter taste make it a perfect, refreshing beverage for Okinawa's warm, subtropical climate. Okinawans drink it with meals, to cool off, and simply as a daily staple, widely available in bottles, cans, and tea bags in every vending machine and convenience store. Its high antioxidant content is a bonus for health.
The Traditional Spirit: Awamori
When it comes to alcoholic beverages, awamori is Okinawa's iconic spirit and Japan's oldest distilled liquor. Originating around 600 years ago, awamori is made from fermented Thai rice using a unique black koji mold. The resulting distilled spirit is strong (30–60% alcohol), traditionally aged in clay pots to mellow its flavor. Unlike sake, which is fermented but not distilled, awamori has a richer flavor profile that can vary significantly with age. For social occasions and celebrations, awamori is often enjoyed on the rocks or with water, and sometimes even mixed with sanpin-cha. Aged awamori, known as kusu, is particularly prized.
The Herbal Elixirs: Teas for Longevity
The Okinawan diet is deeply connected to the concept of nuchigusui, or 'medicine for life,' and their herbal teas are a prime example. The island's subtropical environment offers an abundance of medicinal plants and herbs that are brewed into healthful beverages.
Goya Tea (Bitter Melon)
Goya, or bitter melon, is a superfood central to Okinawan cuisine and is also consumed as a tea. While it has a notoriously bitter taste, it is valued for its detoxifying properties and potential benefits for maintaining blood sugar levels. Drying and processing the entire melon, including the seeds, creates a tea with significant health properties.
Turmeric Tea (Ukon)
Known locally as ucchin or ukon, turmeric is another Okinawan staple, widely consumed as a tea. Fermented turmeric tea powder is prized for its high bioavailability of curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound. It is often sold as a health drink in convenience stores, particularly as a remedy for hangovers.
Shell Ginger Tea (Sannin)
This tea is made from the leaves of the shell ginger plant (Alpinia zerumbet), native to Okinawa. It is exceptionally rich in polyphenols, with some studies suggesting it contains 34 times more than red wine. The tea has a floral, gingery flavor and is often enjoyed iced.
Mugwort Tea (Yomogi)
Another traditional herbal remedy, yomogi or mugwort tea, is highly regarded for its potential to improve blood circulation and rejuvenate the body. It's brewed from the dried leaves of the mugwort plant and is known for its blend of bitter and sweet flavors with a hint of anise.
Refreshing Juices and Sweet Treats
Okinawans also enjoy a variety of refreshing, non-alcoholic drinks, often highlighting local fruits and flavors.
Shikuwasa Juice
Shikuwasa is a small, sour citrus fruit native to Okinawa, packed with vitamin C. Its juice is incredibly refreshing and known for its tart flavor, which can be mellowed by mixing it with water and honey.
Kokutō (Brown Sugar) Drinks
Okinawan brown sugar, or kokutō, is a local specialty. Unlike refined sugar, kokutō is rich in minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium. It is used to sweeten drinks, including local milk tea, giving it a rich, caramel-like flavor.
Comparison of Okinawan Beverages
| Beverage | Type | Flavor Profile | Noteworthy Health Benefit | Best Served |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sanpin-cha | Jasmine Tea | Light, Floral, Subtly Sweet | Antioxidant-rich, Hydrating | Hot or Chilled |
| Awamori | Distilled Liquor | Strong, Earthy, Aged Notes | Enjoyed in Moderation | On the rocks, with water |
| Turmeric Tea | Herbal Tea | Earthy, Mildly Bitter | Anti-inflammatory (Curcumin) | Hot or Cold |
| Shell Ginger Tea | Herbal Tea | Floral, Gingery | High in Antioxidant Polyphenols | Iced, often with milk |
| Goya Tea | Herbal Tea | Very Bitter, Medicinal | Supports Blood Sugar Regulation | Hot or Cold |
| Shikuwasa Juice | Citrus Juice | Tart, Sour, Refreshing | Rich in Vitamin C | Chilled, often with honey |
The Role of Beverages in Okinawan Longevity
The Okinawan approach to drinking mirrors their overall attitude towards food: it is not simply for sustenance but is a source of health and enjoyment. The high consumption of antioxidant-rich teas, derived from local medicinal herbs, is a key component of their healthy aging. Green tea, rich in catechins, has been shown to reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease. The emphasis on plant-based beverages and fruits, like shikuwasa, aligns with a dietary pattern linked to lower rates of chronic disease. Even the moderate, celebratory consumption of awamori fits within a culture that values social connection and purpose (ikigai), both of which are also tied to longevity. This balance of wholesome daily drinks and occasional indulgence reflects a holistic approach to well-being.
Conclusion
The question of what do Okinawans drink reveals a rich beverage culture deeply intertwined with their famous longevity. From the daily ritual of sipping refreshing sanpin-cha and potent herbal teas to the traditional enjoyment of awamori during special occasions, their drinks contribute significantly to their health. This mindful consumption of nutrient-dense, plant-based beverages is more than a simple habit—it is a cornerstone of the Okinawan way of life, offering valuable lessons for a long and healthy life. As seen in a National Geographic article on the topic, their diet reflects a sensible, balanced approach to eating and drinking.
For more insight into the Okinawan diet and lifestyle, consider exploring resources on the 'Blue Zones,' regions of the world where people live measurably longer lives than average. Read more on the Okinawan diet from National Geographic.
