Friday · 7 PM – 10 PM
Shinshu Kyokai Mission Bon Dance
Friday, July 17, 2026
Shinshu Kyokai Mission Bon Dance is listed for Friday, July 17, 2026 at Shinshu Kyokai Mission in Honolulu, Oahu, 7 PM – 10 PM.
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.
- 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
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
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Good to know
When is Shinshu Kyokai Mission Bon Dance?
Shinshu Kyokai Mission Bon Dance is scheduled for Friday, July 17, 2026, 7 PM – 10 PM.
Where is Shinshu Kyokai Mission Bon Dance?
You'll find Shinshu Kyokai Mission Bon Dance at Shinshu Kyokai Mission, Shinshu Kyokai Mission, 1631 S Beretania St, Honolulu, HI 96826 in Honolulu, Oahu.
Will there be food at Shinshu Kyokai Mission Bon Dance?
Mini bento, yakitori, BBQ meat, shoyu pork, oyako donburi, Spam musubi, saimin, boiled peanuts, andagi, and shave ice from temple volunteers and outside vendors
What should I know about parking or access?
Parking on Central Union Church lawn across the street; cash only
Should I confirm Shinshu Kyokai Mission Bon Dance before going?
Yes. Our listing is based on JCCH 2026 statewide schedule; official mission site. 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: Verification source; Verification source; Verification source; Verification source. Dates and times can change — confirm with the temple before you go.