Bon dance · Wahiawā, Oahu · 7 PM – 10 PM
Wāhiawā Hongwanji Bon Dance 2026
Hosted by Wāhiawā Hongwanji Mission
What to expect
Wāhiawā Hongwanji Mission traces its origins to around 1908, when Japanese plantation workers in Central Oahu established one of the island's first Jodo Shinshu (Shin Buddhist) congregations. The current temple building dates to 1949, and the annual bon dance has been a community fixture for generations, honoring ancestors in the Shin Buddhist tradition of gratitude.
The evening centers on dancing around a central yagura tower to live taiko drumming. Temple members bring back beloved homemade staples — mochi, taiyaki, shave ice, and a country store — while a lineup of local food vendors and a craft market featuring florals and handmade gifts rounds out the night.
Program highlights
- Jodo Shinshu temple founded ~1908 by Central Oahu plantation workers
- Two-night dance to live taiko drumming around a central yagura tower
- Temple volunteers sell homemade mochi and taiyaki; country store returns each year
- Craft market with florals and handmade gifts alongside local food vendors
Plan your visit
Food & vendors: Homemade mochi, taiyaki, shave ice, and country store from temple volunteers; andagi, plate lunches, poke bowls, baked goods, and boba from local food vendors
Plan your weekend on Oahu
While you’re out for Wāhiawā 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; Verification source. Dates and times can change — confirm with the organizer before you go.