The figure of a hubbub leaning sickle-necked in a bottle.
It is an intense sight that catches everyone’s attention at souvenir shops in Okinawa!
But this high-impact “habu sake” is more than just a tourist souvenir.
In fact, it is a traditional medicinal drink that has long been used in Okinawa for nourishment and health maintenance.
In this issue, we will introduce in detail why habu sake was born in Okinawa, its deep history, its health benefits especially for women, cautions for drinking it, how local people drink it, how to enjoy it in a unique modern way, and routines to incorporate it into your daily life.
- 1 Why there is Habu-shu in Okinawa and its history
- 2 Habu Sake Production Method and Main Ingredients
- 3 Main benefits of habu sake and its advantages for women
- 4 How Okinawans Drink and Their Daily Routine
- 5 Do's and Don'ts of Hub Liquor and How to Enjoy it Properly
- 6 summary
- 7 Climate and Clothing by Month
- 8 If you want to enjoy Okinawa, get discount tickets online!
- 9 special feature article
Why there is Habu-shu in Okinawa and its history

The roots of habu sake can be traced back to ancient Chinese herbal medicine. During the Ryukyu Dynasty (around the 14th century), the culture of dipping snakes in sake was introduced to Okinawa, which was a center of exchange with China and Southeast Asia.
The poisonous habu was prized as “nuchigusui (life medicine)” because of its extremely strong life force, and was especially used as a gift for royalty and nobility.
In Okinawa, it is said that “a habu can live on water alone for 100 days,” and the belief that this energy can be contained in sake and become healthy itself has taken root.
It has long been taken as a tonic for nourishment, to improve joint pain, and for recovery after childbirth. The effective use of poisonous snakes also has a unique Okinawan cultural background, symbolizing respect for nature and coexistence.
Even after the decline of the Ryukyu Dynasty, this medicinal drink spread to the common people and became part of Okinawa’s food culture and folk medicine.
Today, it has become a well-known souvenir for tourists and also serves to convey the traditional culture of the local Okinawan people.
A great way to reserve a rental car that locals also use!
Habu Sake Production Method and Main Ingredients

Habu-shu is made from Awamori, a specialty distilled spirit of Okinawa.
Awamori is mixed with herbs and honey to create a unique flavor.
In the traditional method, captured hubs are fasted to expel impurities from their bodies, and then soaked in alcohol.
In recent years, the production process has included removing blood and entrails to reduce odor.
The aging process can last from several months to several years, during which time the nutrients and active ingredients of the habu are slowly dissolved into the sake.
Major components include amino acids, proteins, peptides, vitamins, and minerals, which are thought to provide a variety of health benefits.
Main benefits of habu sake and its advantages for women

Hub wine has many nutrients dissolved in it, which is why it is so popular, especially among women.
Nourishing tonic, recovery from fatigue
Modern women are busy at work and at home.
Taurine and amino acids, which are components of habu sake, help the body produce energy efficiently and prevent fatigue. In particular, it is considered effective in relieving summer fatigue and chronic fatigue.
Improvement of coldness and blood circulation
Habu sake is also effective in treating the cold and poor circulation that many women suffer from.
Vasodilating ingredients such as arginine promote blood circulation, improve cold extremities and swelling, and help relieve stiff shoulders and lower back pain.
Anemia prevention and skin beautifying effects
Habu sake contains iron, which is effective in preventing anemia, a common condition among women.
It is also rich in vitamin E, which is expected to have skin beautifying and anti-aging effects due to its antioxidant properties. It also promotes skin metabolism and contributes to the improvement of dry and rough skin.
Hormone balance adjustment
Traditionally, it has also been used to speed postpartum recovery and to alleviate menopausal symptoms.
The ingredients derived from hubs are believed to have the effect of regulating hormonal balance, and are taken today to alleviate women’s specific problems.
How Okinawans Drink and Their Daily Routine
For Okinawans, habu sake is more like “medicine” for daily health maintenance than anything special.
The local custom is to drink a small amount (about 30 ml) with hot water before going to bed. It relieves fatigue and at the same time warms the body and promotes a good night’s sleep.
It is also often served in small quantities at celebrations and gatherings of relatives, and is popular as a sake that strengthens family and community ties.
Do’s and Don’ts of Hub Liquor and How to Enjoy it Properly
The alcohol content of habu sake is high, ranging from 20 to 40 degrees, so care should be taken not to drink too much.
The appropriate intake is about 30 ml per day. Pregnant and lactating women should also avoid drinking. If you are allergic to snakes or have a pre-existing medical condition, we recommend consulting a physician.
Habu sake can be enjoyed straight, on the rocks, with water, or with hot water, but easy-to-drink types with honey or herbs are also popular among beginners.
Those with a hub inside the bottle can be enjoyed repeatedly by pouring in new Awamori after finishing the bottle.
A great way to reserve a rental car that locals also use!
summary
Habu-shu is a traditional medicinal drink unique to Okinawa, with health and beauty benefits especially for women.
By incorporating a little bit into your daily life, it will support your daily health. Why not enjoy it together with Okinawan culture by observing the way of drinking and the amount of intake?
Climate and Clothing by Month
Okinawa Travel Guide! A thorough guide to travel costs and staycation techniques by time of year
If you want to enjoy Okinawa, get discount tickets online!
special feature article
Roadside Stations and Direct Selling Stations Special Feature!
Michi no Eki (Roadside Stations) and direct sales shops in Okinawa are very popular tourist attractions. Each has its own unique characteristics, making them 200% worth visiting! Please visit them!
Special feature on beaches on the main island of Okinawa!
The main island of Okinawa has many wonderful beaches that can only be found in the tropics. We will introduce each of them in an easy-to-understand manner, from the very secluded to the well-serviced executive beaches.