Obon at Rinzai Zen Mission
During the summer-long Obon festival, Japanese temples across Hawai‘i honor departed ancestors with nighttime celebrations. At the Pā‘ia Rinzai Zen Mission, Maui’s only Okinawan temple, two shaggy shisa (lion-dogs) start the festivities off with a bang. Shakuhachi (Japanese flute) players perform in a yagura (tower), while dancers in colorful kimono circle it gracefully—and invite you to join.
Photo courtesy of Rinzai Zen Mission
Archie Kalepa
This real-life Maui superman was among the first tow-in surfers to brave seventy-foot-tall waves at Pe‘ahi and the first to stand-up paddle solo across the Moloka‘i Channel. The former lifeguard captain developed innovative ocean-rescue techniques and saved lives (including one dog) during 1992’s Hurricane Iniki. Kalepa sailed aboard the voyaging canoes Hōkūle‘a and Hawai‘iloa on multiple ocean crossings. Still, this lifelong waterman says that one of his most rewarding accomplishments was the recent restoration of his family’s lo‘i kalo (taro patch). After 130 years, the mountain stream flows through the lo‘i again, feeding the taro, the community, and the culture.
Photo by Jason Moore
Makawao Union Church
Celebrated Hawai‘i architect C.W. Dickey designed this stone-and-stained-glass sanctuary in 1917. Today, its congregation welcomes the community for more than Sunday worship. The majestic church and adjoining theater host tango classes, twelve-step meetings, graduation ceremonies, and Tibetan-flute performances.
Photo by Bob Bangerter
Camellia Seed Shop
Whatchu like: Lemon li hing mui? Rock-salt plum? This tiny crack-seed store at Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center sells old-time treats the old-fashioned way, from shiny glass storage jars.
Photo by John Giordani