Bon dance · Hilo, Big Island · 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Hilo Taishoji Soto Mission Bon Dance 2026
Hosted by Hilo Taishoji Soto Mission
Taishoji Soto Mission was established in 1916 in downtown Hilo, founded by Japanese immigrants drawn largely from the island's sugar plantation workforce — approximately 800 community members joined at its founding. Originally named Hakuhozan Taishoji, it is a Soto Zen Buddhist mission whose head temples are Eihei-ji and Soji-ji in Japan; the English name was formalized in 1955. The temple has maintained obon observances as a cornerstone community tradition for over a century.
The bon dance features live performance by Taishoji Taiko, a kumi-daiko drumming ensemble founded at the temple in 1989 under the direction of Yoshihumi Ono. The group grew from its origins as a bon dance accompaniment into a regionally recognized ensemble known for blending traditional and contemporary taiko styles. Food concessions on the temple grounds offer chili rice, shave ice, and andagi.
- Temple founded 1916 by Japanese immigrant plantation workers
- Live kumi-daiko by Taishoji Taiko, founded at the temple in 1989
- Food concessions include chili rice, shave ice, and andagi
Food & vendors: Chili rice, shave ice, and andagi from temple food concessions
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Good to know
When is Hilo Taishoji Soto Mission Bon Dance?
Hilo Taishoji Soto Mission Bon Dance is scheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2026, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Where is Hilo Taishoji Soto Mission Bon Dance?
You'll find Hilo Taishoji Soto Mission Bon Dance at Hilo Taishoji Soto Mission, 275 Kinoole Street, Hilo, HI 96720 in Hilo, Big Island.
Will there be food at Hilo Taishoji Soto Mission Bon Dance?
Chili rice, shave ice, and andagi from temple food concessions
Should I confirm Hilo Taishoji Soto Mission Bon Dance before going?
Yes. Our listing is based on JCCH 2026 statewide schedule; SOTOZEN Hawaii office/temple list; https://www.jcchawaii.org/resources/2026-obon-schedule; https://bigislandnow.com/events/event/a6u1k4r8f4m9b/; http://www.taishoji.org/. 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; SOTOZEN Hawaii office/temple list; https://www.jcchawaii.org/resources/2026-obon-schedule; https://bigislandnow.com/events/event/a6u1k4r8f4m9b/; http://www.taishoji.org/. Dates and times can change — confirm with the organizer before you go.