Saturday · From 7:45 PM
Wailuku Hongwanji Bon Dance
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Wailuku Hongwanji Bon Dance is listed for Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Wailuku Hongwanji Mission in Wailuku, Maui, From 7:45 PM.
Wailuku Hongwanji Mission has anchored Maui's Japanese immigrant community since 1899, when Reverend Hojun Kunisaki arrived as the first resident minister to establish a Jōdo Shinshū congregation for plantation-era workers. The first temple was built at the corner of Wells and Market streets in 1902, and the present sanctuary was constructed in 1952.
The temple frames its annual Obon as "Kangi-e" — a Joyful Gathering — and holds Hatsu-bon memorial services for families who lost someone in the past year before the dancing begins, grounding the festival in its Buddhist roots alongside the food booths and music. The dance floor is paved rather than grassed, which is unusual among Maui's bon dances.
- Jōdo Shinshū congregation founded 1899 for Maui's plantation-era workers
- Hatsubon memorial service for recently bereaved families held before dancing
- Dance held on pavement — unusual among Maui bon dances
Plan your weekend on Maui
While you’re out for Wailuku Hongwanji Bon Dance, see who else is open — and meet the makers and farmers behind Hawai‘i’s markets.
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Good to know
When is Wailuku Hongwanji Bon Dance?
Wailuku Hongwanji Bon Dance is scheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2026, From 7:45 PM.
Where is Wailuku Hongwanji Bon Dance?
You'll find Wailuku Hongwanji Bon Dance at Wailuku Hongwanji Mission, Wailuku Hongwanji Mission, 1828 Vineyard St, Wailuku, HI 96793 in Wailuku, Maui.
Should I confirm Wailuku Hongwanji Bon Dance before going?
Yes. Our listing is based on JCCH 2026 statewide schedule; HHMH temple locator / official 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. Dates and times can change — confirm with the temple before you go.