Bon dance · Honolulu, Oahu · 5 PM – 9 PM
Jikoen Hongwanji Bon Dance 2026
Hosted by Jikoen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
Date
What to expect
Founded in 1938 to serve Honolulu's Okinawan immigrant community — whose first members arrived in Hawaii in 1900 — Jikoen Hongwanji is a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist temple in the Kalihi neighborhood. Rev. Chiro Yosemori began holding dedicated services for Okinawan immigrants in 1936, and the congregation helped establish the Hawaii United Okinawa Association in 1951. During World War II, Jikoen became the first temple in Hawaii to reopen before the war's end, with lay leader Shohei Miyasato holding services while the minister was interned.
The Obon showcases live Okinawan music and performing arts, with groups such as the Paranku Clubs of Hawaii, Ukwanshin Kabudan, Young Okinawans of Hawaii (YOH), and HOCA Shishimai among regular performers. A Kachaashi (Okinawan circle dance) contest and group Kachaashi traditionally close the evening. Food booths open at 5:00 p.m. (cash only) offering andagi, poke bowls, mixed plates, shave ice, musubi, and burgers from both indoor and outdoor stalls. Guided temple tours are offered between dances.
Program highlights
- Jodo Shinshu temple founded 1938 for Okinawa's immigrant community
- First Hawaii temple to reopen before the end of WWII
- Features Paranku clubs, Ukwanshin Kabudan, and Kachaashi contest
- Free parking at Kapalama Elementary School
Plan your visit
Food & vendors: Andagi, poke bowls, mixed plates, shave ice, musubi, and burgers; food booths open at 5 p.m., cash only
Parking & access: Free parking at Kapalama Elementary School
Plan your weekend on Oahu
While you’re out for Jikoen 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; Verification source. Dates and times can change — confirm with the organizer before you go.