Bon dance · Hilo, Big Island · 7 PM – 10 PM
Hilo Daijingu Natsu Matsuri 2026
Hosted by Hilo Daijingu
Hilo Daijingu was established in 1898 as Old Yamato Jinia, a Shinto shrine serving Hawaii Island's Japanese immigrant community. As a Shinto institution rather than a Buddhist temple, its Natsu Matsuri (summer festival) draws on Japanese shrine-festival traditions; the shrine has served the community for over a century under Shrine Shinto lineage connected to Ise Jingū.
The shrine relocated to its current Anela Street location after the 1960 tsunami that destroyed much of downtown Hilo, and has continued hosting its summer matsuri at that site since.
- Shinto shrine (not a Buddhist temple) — natsu matsuri, not obon, tradition
- Founded 1898 as Old Yamato Jinia; guardian shrine for Hawaii Island
- Relocated to Anela St after the 1960 Hilo tsunami
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While you’re out for Hilo Daijingu Natsu Matsuri, see who else is open — and meet the makers and farmers behind Hawai‘i’s markets.
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Good to know
When is Hilo Daijingu Natsu Matsuri?
Hilo Daijingu Natsu Matsuri is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, 2026, 7 PM – 10 PM.
Where is Hilo Daijingu Natsu Matsuri?
You'll find Hilo Daijingu Natsu Matsuri at Hilo Daijingu, Hilo Daijingu, 10 Anela St, Hilo, HI 96720 in Hilo, Big Island.
Should I confirm Hilo Daijingu Natsu Matsuri before going?
Yes. Our listing is based on JCCH 2026 statewide schedule; Hilo Daijingu official site; location source for address/coords; https://www.jcchawaii.org/resources/2026-obon-schedule; https://www.facebook.com/groups/228378161056078/posts/1877520862808458/. Event dates and times can change, so confirm with the host before you go.
About bon dances
Bon dance (bon odori) is the centerpiece of obon, the Japanese Buddhist season honoring ancestors. In Hawaii the tradition arrived with plantation-era immigrants and became its own local institution — most temples across the islands hold a dance on a summer weekend between June and September, and the whole community turns out.
The setup is consistent: a yagura (a raised tower) anchors the temple yard, taiko drummers and singers keep the beat, and dancers move in concentric circles around the tower. You don't need to know the steps or be Buddhist to join — follow the circle, copy the person ahead of you, and you'll pick it up by the second song. Around the edges you'll find food booths selling andagi, plate lunches, shave ice, and saimin, plus craft and game tables.
- No experience needed — step into the circle and follow along.
- Come hungry; the food booths are half the reason people go.
- Bring small cash for food, games, and craft tables.
- Dances run rain or shine and are free to attend.
Sources: JCCH 2026 statewide schedule; Hilo Daijingu official site; location source for address/coords; https://www.jcchawaii.org/resources/2026-obon-schedule; https://www.facebook.com/groups/228378161056078/posts/1877520862808458/. Dates and times can change — confirm with the organizer before you go.