Bon dance · Honolulu, Oʻahu
Shinshu Kyokai Mission Bon Dance 2026
Hosted by Shinshu Kyokai Mission
- When
- Jul 17–18, 20267 PM – 10 PM
- Where
- Honolulu, OʻahuGet directions
- Host
- Shinshu Kyokai Mission
Sources
Dates and times can change — confirm with the organizer before you go. Historical dates reflect advertised schedules; a past date alone does not confirm the event took place.
2 dates
Dates
What to expect
Founded on April 14, 1914, when 25 Jodo Shinshu faithful gathered at Seisuke Yamashita's home in Liliha to form a charter, Shinshu Kyokai Mission is an independent Jodo Shinshu Buddhist temple that has served Honolulu's Japanese plantation-era community in the Pawa'a neighborhood for over a century. The temple was rebuilt after World War II when many of its leaders were interned, and has held its bon dance continuously across that span.
The two-night dance centers on a yagura erected on the temple grounds, where taiko drummers, musicians, and singers lead the traditional obon circle dancing. Temple volunteers and outside vendors staff an extensive array of food booths, with parking available on the lawn of Central Union Church across the street.
Program highlights
- Independent Jodo Shinshu mission founded April 14, 1914 by 25 charter members
- Yagura with taiko drummers, musicians, and singers on temple grounds
- Temple volunteers make yakitori, mini bento, shoyu pork, saimin, and andagi on-site
Plan your visit
- Food & vendors
- Mini bento, yakitori, BBQ meat, shoyu pork, oyako donburi, Spam musubi, saimin, boiled peanuts, andagi, and shave ice from temple volunteers and outside vendors
- Parking & access
- Parking on Central Union Church lawn across the street; cash only
Farmers markets this weekend
Plan your weekend on Oahu
While you’re out for Shinshu Kyokai Mission Bon Dance, see who else is open — and meet the makers and farmers behind Hawai‘i’s markets.
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.