Throughout the island of Maui, you will find landmarks, cultural experiences, and local businesses rooted in Japanese culture.
Attend a Japanese Festival
A matsuri 祭り (festival) brings the community together for food, entertainment, dancing, and more. Festivals with bon odori 盆踊り (bon dance) typically begin in the summer. Since May 1999, a group of volunteers have hosted Maui Matsuri, Maui's oldest Japanese festival featuring entertainment, food, keiki activities, crafters, exhibits, eating and e-sports contests, and bon dance!
Visit a Japanese Temple or Shrine
Wailuku is home to Maui's last original jinja 神社 (Shinto shrine), the Maui Jinja Shinto Shrine, built over 100 years ago. Another landmark located along Maui's northern shoreline is the Paia Mantokuji Soto Zen Mission, founded in 1906 by Reverend Sokyo Ueoka. In recent years, preservation of these structures has become increasingly important.
Join a Workshop or Take a Class
The Japanese Cultural Society of Maui, established in 1969, promotes and encourages the preservation and perpetuation of Japanese culture in Hawaiʻi. Sign up for one of their many educational events such as miso-making, calligraphy, mochi pounding, and more!
Learn About Japanese History
The Nisei Veterans Memorial Center (NVMC) is a nonprofit organization that engages the community through programs and exhibitions at their “living memorial” campus. Through exhibits and educational opportunities, the community can learn about the history and legacy of the Nisei 二世 (second generation) soldier.
Stroll Through ʻĪao Valley: Kepaniwai Park
Featuring stone lanterns, beautiful plants, and arched bridges is the Japanese Tea Garden at Kepaniwai Park, a vibrant landscape that showcases Hawaiʻi's diverse cultural heritage. The park is also home to bronze statues of Japanese cane field workers, a testament to the aspirations, hardships, and contributions of Japanese immigrants.
Shop at Mise Kimono (Queen Kaʻahumanu Center)
Yukata, kimono, accessories, and modern Hawaiʻi-made fashion using obi 帯 (kimono sash) and Japanese fabrics can be found at this local business in Kahului. Their products are inspired by the legacy of Grandma Tomiko, a woman from Japan's countryside.
Eat Japanese Food and Sweets
Head to TJ's Warehouse for all things Japanese: bento 弁当 (lunch box), fresh seafood, dishware, kitchenware, and other products! Find freshly made peanut butter and milk chocolate mochi at Maui Specialty Chocolates in Kahului. Cool off with a creamy variation of sherbert at Tasaka Guri Guri Shop in Kahului. While living in Japan, founder Jokichi Tasaka developed the first version of its recipe in the early 1900s.
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