CONTRIBUTED BY MARLOW TOWNES
I’ve only been on the island for seven weeks, and already one of my children’s (ages 6 and 8) favorite activities is shopping at 100 Yen stores. I must admit, I’m generally not a huge fan of American consumerism, but with only a set of loaner furniture, a dish pack, and the clothing from four suitcases to our name, I confess, we’ve been doing some spending.
The first person I exchanged conversation with about where to go, said her favorite one was the Daiso on Convention Center Blvd. We went, and we were hooked. We tried one on Route 23 and one on Route 329, and then we happened upon one in American Village, Seria. It is my favorite, for one overruling reason: a good percentage of the merchandise is MADE IN JAPAN. I love the thought of supporting the people and country in which we are living, and the products all seem to be great quality for the value. The store is very clean, organized and bright. If I understood correctly from the cashier, it has been open less than one year.
Their philosophy, according to their website, is “Cleanliness, Gratitude, Sharing.”
The wall behind the cash register has a beautiful photograph and quote written in both Kanji and English:
“In everyday life, when we come across an event or a thing and are moved by it, our life naturally becomes more colorful, a little brighter. It is not always easy to find things that move us and make a big impression. However, if you go to Seria, you can come across many small pleasures everyday. The joy of finding your favorite style or taste, or the excitement of bringing something fresh into your daily life. Seria aims to touch your heart and promises earnestly to do its very best to find events and things that bring color to life.”
I am moved by the opportunity to live here in Okinawa and definitely feel that my life has and will continue to become more colorful because of it!
Directions: Seria is located inside the Dragon Palace in American Village. From Route 58 turn West at the American Village light (one light north of the Camp Lester light, Four Seasons Steak is on the corner.) Turn right at the 2nd light, turn right into the first driveway. There is parking behind Dragon Palace.
Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Payment: Yen and credit cards