Hi-jya, a goat in Okinawan dialect, has been a part of Okinawan diet since ancient times.

Goat is eaten most commonly as soup, cooked with plenty of vegetables and herbs, but it is also enjoyed raw as sashimi.

Both are dishes unique to Okinawa.

Goat dishes are eaten especially during hot summer months as they are said to strengthen stamina to better endure the intense heat.