Kona Daifukuji Soto Mission Bon Dance 2026

Kona Daifukuji Soto Mission traces its roots to 1914, when Rev. Kaiseki Kodama established the first Kona Soto Mission; the current temple was dedicated in 1921. One of Kona's oldest Soto Zen Buddhist temples, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a Kona Heritage building. The annual bon dance is held each summer on the second Saturday of July.

The evening centers on communal bon dancing around the yagura to live drumming by the temple's own Kona Daifukuji Taiko group. The taiko group also runs a snack booth as a fundraiser for the youth program; past offerings have included curry stew with rice, teri burgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs, shave ice, preserved fruits, baked goods, and assorted drinks. The temple gift shop is open throughout the event. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.

Food & vendors: Curry stew with rice, teri burgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs, shave ice, preserved fruits, and baked goods from the Kona Daifukuji Taiko snack booth; temple gift shop open with snacks and drinks

Parking & access: Parking on the temple lawn until full; additional parking up above the temple