[Irabu Island] Was It Hugely Popular Even Before the Bridge?

The Untold Story Behind the Famichiki Legend

~ From its roots in Okinawa to becoming “Japan’s best-selling,” this island FamilyMart became an online sensation ~

Just across the bridge from Miyako Island lies Irabu Island. Around 2019, the FamilyMart on this island made headlines online as the “store that sold the most Famichiki in Japan”—including the bone-in variety known locally as “Fura-Chiki.” But behind this fame lies a deeper story: the 2015 opening of the Irabu Bridge, Okinawa’s unique fried chicken culture, and the island’s little-known role as the birthplace of Famichiki.

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Okinawa: The Birthplace of Famichiki

Famichiki actually began in October 2000, when Okinawa FamilyMart first released a bone-in fried chicken developed for local customers. It became a massive local hit. In 2001, FamilyMart’s Tokyo headquarters took notice and decided to launch a nationwide version, which evolved into the boneless Famichiki we know today.

That’s why Okinawa is considered the birthplace of Famichiki. Even now, many people across the prefecture refer to all store-cooked fried chicken at FamilyMart—including bone-in types—as “Famichiki.”

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Famichiki Was Loved Even Before the Bridge

The Irabu Bridge officially opened on January 31, 2015. Before that, the only way to travel between Miyako and Irabu islands was by ferry—a less than convenient route. Back then, the only convenience store on the island, FamilyMart, was an essential part of daily life for locals.

In particular, with no KFC or other national fried chicken chains on Irabu, FamilyMart’s chicken was a delicacy—a special taste deeply embedded in island life.

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The Bridge Brought More Tourists—and Even More Fame

The completion of the Irabu Bridge drastically improved access. Tourists could now easily visit the island by car, and the FamilyMart quickly became a must-stop spot on Irabu sightseeing routes.

Famichiki and Fura-Chiki, served hot from the counter, gained attention as island gourmet food among visitors. The combination of local demand and tourist hype sent sales soaring. By 2019, the store had gained national fame as the top Famichiki-selling location, earning it a legendary reputation.

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Okinawans and Fried Chicken: A Deep Connection

Okinawa is one of Japan’s top consumers of fried chicken. Fried chicken is commonly served at New Year and during family celebrations, and KFC has long been popular across the prefecture.

However, with no KFC on Irabu Island, FamilyMart’s chicken filled that role—becoming a locally cherished, easily accessible delicacy and a part of everyday life.

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Famichiki Legend: A Quick Timeline

• 2000: Okinawa FamilyMart launches bone-in “Fura-Chiki”
• 2001: Tokyo HQ notices its success, leads to nationwide Famichiki (boneless) launch
• 2015: Irabu Bridge opens, greatly improving access and bringing tourists
• Around 2019: Store becomes known online as the #1 Famichiki-selling shop in Japan
• No KFC on the island, so FamilyMart’s chicken becomes the go-to for locals
• Already popular before the bridge, the shop’s fame exploded after it opened

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📍 Store Information

FamilyMart Miyako Irabu Store

647-1 Maezatoe, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa

☎ 0980-78-5308

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Next time you visit Irabu Island, don’t miss the chance to cross the bridge and stop by FamilyMart. This legendary Famichiki, loved by locals and travelers alike, is sure to make your trip even more memorable.