Bon dance · Honolulu, Oahu · 7 PM – 10 PM
Soto Mission of Hawaiʻi Bon Dance 2026
Hosted by Soto Mission of Hawaiʻi Shoboji
What to expect
Founded in 1913 by Rev. Hosen Isobe, Shoboji is the Soto Zen betsuin (regional headquarters) for Hawaii, and has anchored its Nuuanu Avenue campus since 1953. As one of Honolulu's oldest Japanese Buddhist institutions, its annual obon is among the city's most historically rooted bon dances, drawing visitors to the shaded Nuuanu Valley neighborhood.
Each evening features taiko performances by Somei Taiko and Hawaiʻi Matsuri Taiko alongside Eisa Shinyuu Kai. A temple concession stand serves teriyaki chicken plate, chili rice, fried noodles, saimin, chili dog, hot dog, teri burger, and nachos; payment is cash only.
Program highlights
- Soto Zen betsuin for Hawaii, founded 1913 on Hall Street
- Live taiko by Somei Taiko and Hawaiʻi Matsuri Taiko each night
- Eisa Shinyuu Kai performs alongside the bon dance
- Cash-only temple food booths with plate lunches and saimin
Plan your visit
Food & vendors: Teriyaki chicken plate, chili rice, chili dog, hot dog, teri burger, fried noodles, saimin, and nachos from the temple concession stand (cash only; menu subject to change)
Parking & access: Overflow parking available at SEEQS, Honpa Hongwanji, and Mission School
Plan your weekend on Oahu
While you’re out for Soto Mission of Hawaiʻi 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; Verification source. Dates and times can change — confirm with the organizer before you go.