Bitter melon (goya), seaweed and Okinawan purple sweet potatoes may be among ingredients responsible for Okinawa’s reputation as “The Land of the Immortals.” The prefecture has a high concentration of centenarians who achieve longevity without many of the afflictions associated with old age, such as heart attack and stroke, cancer, osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s disease. Life expectancy is about 84 for men, and 90 for women.

Another place to try some of these foods is Hide-Chan, at 2471 S. King St., Moiliili. Okinawan specialties include imo (purple sweet potato) tempura ($7.95), goya tempura ($8.95) or a combination of both ($8.95).

Also available is miso rafute ($14), milder in flavor than shoyu-marinated styles, moyashi champuru, a stir-fry of bean sprouts, tofu and pork ($12.75), goya champuru ($12.75), Okinawa soba ($10.50) and pig’s feet soup ($14.95).

Cash only. Call 942-7900.

For a quick fix, Nuuanu Okazuya also offers a few Okinawan items, such as pork-stuffed bitter melon ($2.75 per piece), a bitter melon stir-fry ($2.50), bitter melon namasu ($1), and Okinawan sweet potato ($1 per slice).

It’s at 1351 Nuuanu Ave. Call 533-6169.