Bon dance · Hilo, Big Island · 7 PM – 9:30 PM
Hilo Higashi Hongwanji Bon Dance 2026
Hosted by Hilo Higashi Hongwanji Mission
Date
What to expect
Founded in 1928 as a Jōdo Shinshū congregation (Higashi Honganji branch), the temple was rebuilt at its current site after the 1960 Chilean tsunami destroyed its original home in Waiakea Town.
The evening opens with a Hatsu Bon service honoring members who passed in the past year, then shifts to community bon dancing. The concession stand — known to sell out early — features andagi, saimin, hot dogs, and refreshments; the temple chairman has advised guests to eat early before supplies run out. Both the service and the dance are free and open to the public.
Program highlights
- Founded 1928; original Waiakea Town temple destroyed by 1960 Chilean tsunami
- Hatsu Bon memorial service precedes community bon dancing
- Concession stand sells andagi, saimin, and hot dogs — known to sell out early
- Free and open to the public
Plan your visit
Food & vendors: Andagi, saimin, hot dogs, and refreshments from temple concession
Plan your weekend on Big Island
While you’re out for Hilo Higashi Hongwanji Bon Dance, see who else is open — and meet the makers and farmers behind Hawai‘i’s markets.
Farmers markets this weekend
What’s worth a trip this weekend
One email a week: the makers worth seeking out, pop-ups, and Hawai‘i cultural events worth planning around.
Sources: Verification source; Verification source. Dates and times can change — confirm with the organizer before you go.