Kauai’s Final Bon Dance Celebrates Tradition and Community Spirit

Hundreds gathered for the bon dance at the Waimea Higashi Hongwanji on August 4 and 5, 2023, marking a significant event in the Kauai Buddhist Council calendar. This celebration, which is rooted in Japanese tradition, may have been the final bon dance of the summer season, a highlight of the community’s cultural calendar.

Participants traveled from various parts of the island to attend the event. Brian Yamamoto, a member of the Kapaa Hongwanji and a professor at Kauai Community College, shared, “I couldn’t attend all of the bon dances, but since this is the last one, it’s worthwhile to drive all the way from Kapaa.” His journey was also motivated by a meeting with a botany professional who adjusted his travel plans to join Yamamoto in Waimea.

The atmosphere was filled with excitement as attendees engaged in various activities. Kevin Gusman, the bowling coach at Kapaa High School, expressed his enthusiasm while trying to “save space” for his family. “Since this is the last one, it’s worth coming all the way to Waimea,” he noted.

As summer nears its end, Sonya Higuchi took part in numerous bon dance-related activities, from queuing for food to sharing stories with friends. The event featured several attractions, including a “mini country store,” food stalls, and the highly anticipated music performances.

The bon dance at Waimea Higashi Hongwanji is not just a standalone event; it is part of a broader series of celebrations organized by the Kauai Buddhist Council. The upcoming festivities at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa in Poipu on August 8 will further embrace this tradition. Scheduled from 17:30 to 21:00, the event will be open to the public, offering locals and visitors a unique opportunity to participate in this cultural custom.

According to Diann Hartman of the Grand Hyatt Kauai, the event has been enhanced with the support of Kauai Buddhist Council churches. “Moani Tolentino, the Hawaiian culture manager at the Grand Hyatt Kauai, has been offering lessons to some of the guests,” Hartman explained. These lessons will take place in the week leading up to the bon dance, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the cultural experience.

Participation in the Grand Hyatt event is free, and attendees are encouraged to engage with the traditions of honoring one’s ancestors. The event will feature food booths showcasing traditional bon dance delicacies, activities that serve as fundraisers for community service projects, and a variety of games for children, such as Fish Pond.

“The bon dance gets bigger and bigger every year,” Hartman remarked, reflecting on the growing enthusiasm surrounding the event. With the community spirit alive and vibrant, the bon dance continues to foster connections and celebrate cultural heritage in Kauai.