Kauai Bon Dances

A Bon Dance is a Japanese Buddhist custom to honor the spirits of family members that have passed away, and has been celebrated in Japan for more than 500 years. On Kauai in the summer there are many chances for you to experience one in person. The festivals serve as both a ceremony of spiritual remembrance and a celebration of cultural heritage and community. According to tradition, it is believed the summer months are when ancestral spirits return to visit family and friends.

The dance is held at night and differs slightly depending on the Mission but generally involves people circling around a high wooden yagura. The appropriate way to welcome the ancestors’ souls is to play happy music and create a feeling of happiness. The festivals are also known for their array of Japanese foods for sale – andagi (sweet fried dough), grilled teri-beef and chicken skewers, musubi (rice balls wrapped in dried seaweed), and stir-fry noodles. Everyone is welcome regardless of religious background, ethnicity, or even dancing abilities. Visit our Kauai Events Calendar for weekend Bon Dances during the summer at these locations:

Koloa Jodo Mission
Hanapepe Hongwanji Mission
Lihue Hongwanji Mission
Waimea Shingon Mission
Kapaa Jodo Mission
West Kauai Hongwanji Mission
Kapaa Hongwanji Mission
Waimea Higashi Hongwanji
Koloa Hongwanji Mission