Located in the northern part of Nago City, "Haneji no Eki Yanbaru Tamago" is a direct sales store where you can enjoy fresh agricultural products, local specialties, and regional gourmet food all in one place.
Located about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Naha Airport and about 20 minutes from the Kyoda Interchange on the Okinawa Expressway, it's close to popular tourist spots such as Kouri Island, Neo Park Okinawa, and Janglia, making it a perfect stop during a drive through Yanbaru.
This article introduces the unique charms of Yanbaru, including the famous "newhalf" (transgender women) that you can only find here.

1. A wide variety of fresh ingredients from Yanbaru and other parts of the prefecture are available! A direct sales market packed with local charm.

Upon entering the direct sales store, the first thing that caught my eye was the vibrant colors of tropical fruits such as mangoes and pineapples. Since I visited in late July, they were in season and the store was filled with them.

They offer a wide selection of mangoes, from gift-boxed mangoes to affordable options for home consumption. Cut mangoes are also available, making it easy to choose according to your needs.

The pineapples on display include many Gold Barrel varieties, known for their high sugar content and often called the "king of pineapples."
Because the north is a major producer of pineapples, the selection of goods seemed more extensive compared to the farmers markets in the south.

Watermelons from Nakijin are also on sale, with smaller ones costing around 1000 yen each.
The freshness unique to seasonal produce and the affordable prices are also attractive features of direct-from-the-farm products.

Rice grown in the northern region is also one of the popular products.
During our visit, Nago City's brand-name rice, "Haneji Rice," was being sold, and we saw locals purchasing it.

The "Yanbaru Eggs," which are also the name of the facility, are proud of their freshness. Since poultry farming is thriving in the Haneji region, many people visit in search of fresh eggs.

In addition, there is a wide selection of processed goods and souvenirs made in Yanbaru and Nago City.
This is a beloved local direct sales store, used not only by tourists looking for souvenirs but also by locals on a daily basis.

2. What's this about the famous "newhalf"?! Trying out this intriguing local delicacy.

I'd always been curious about the famous "newhalf" (transgender women) that they sell whenever I drove past. I looked around inside the store and found them for sale next to the cash register.

It looks like a stick-shaped fish paste tempura on a skewer.
Actually, it's a specialty food of Haneji Station, made by kneading together minced fish and chicken.
The dough contains cabbage and carrots, as well as "Chomeiso," a nutrient-rich vegetable said to "extend your life by one day if you eat one stalk."

With just one bite, you'll find it crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Unlike satsuma-age made only from fish, the addition of chicken gives it a soft texture. The crisp texture of the vegetables adds a nice accent, making it perfect as a snack when you're feeling a little hungry or a light meal during a drive.
3. Recommended for lunch! More details on the food options at Haneji Station

Besides the transvestites, Haneji Station also offers a variety of other interesting takeout food options.
Among them, the most popular is the "Half-roasted Haneji Chicken."
This dish is generously seasoned with garlic and slowly baked in the oven.

Despite its imposing appearance, the meat is surprisingly juicy. This popular dish is said to be addictive once you try it.

In addition, they also sell bento boxes, rice balls, bread, and tacos. The tacos and taco rice use Haneji chicken, making them very convenient for lunch on the beach or during a drive.

The building has a food court with two restaurants operating: "Yanbaru Kuina OLI" and "Ganaha Soba." You can enjoy Okinawan soba noodles, set meals, and more, making it a great lunch spot.

This time, I was drawn to "Yanbaru Kuina OLI" because of its description as a "cafe with a chef."
They are particular about their ingredients and seasonings, and they strive to offer dishes that are as additive-free as possible.
The restaurant's recommendation is the "Agu Plate." They also offer takeout, so I ordered it to go this time.

The colorful presentation raises expectations even before you take a bite.
Agu pork is tender, has a sweet flavor from the fat, yet isn't heavy, making it a great accompaniment to rice.
This plate is packed with vegetables, making it a welcome treat for those who may be lacking in vegetables while traveling.
The prices are also reasonable, so I highly recommend it for lunch.

Outside the facility, you'll find the "Chikiran" parlor and the "EMINA DONUTS" donut shop. They offer Okinawan zenzai (sweet red bean soup) and soft serve ice cream, making them perfect for a break during your drive.

Haneji Station offers not only fresh agricultural products and local specialties, but also famous gourmet food, lunch, and sweets. It's easily accessible for those sightseeing in Yanbaru or driving to Kouri Island, making it a great spot to enjoy the flavors of the region all in one place. Why not pay a visit sometime?

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