At the edge of Chinatown in Honolulu, Izumo Taishakyo Mission of Hawaii is a Shinto shrine built by Japanese immigrants. Its simple, elegant design and calm grounds offer a quiet place to learn about Japanese spiritual traditions. The shrine honors Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, associated in Shinto belief with good fortune. You can observe the prayer ritual and buy Omamori charms at the shrine office. The grounds are small, with the shrine and office close together, so this is a focused cultural stop rather than a long visit.
A Shinto shrine in Honolulu
Japanese immigrants established the shrine in Honolulu’s Chinatown. It honors Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, a kami associated in Shinto tradition with good fortune. The shrine’s design is simple and elegant, and its compact grounds contain the main shrine and an office.
The shrine’s history includes a period of disruption during the Second World War, when it was taken by the city. It was returned to the community in the early 1960s.
Prayer and purification
The entrance basin is used to wash your hands as an act of purification before prayer. A traditional visit can include making a donation, ringing the bell, bowing twice, clapping four times, praying and bowing once more.
Take your time to observe the ritual before joining in, and follow the shrine’s customs respectfully. At the office, you can buy Omamori, Japanese good-luck charms; some are exclusive to the Hawaii shrine. New Year is an important time for blessings, when people come from around Oahu, so expect more visitors and limited parking.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Izumo Taishakyo Mission of Hawaii?
It is at 215 N Kukui St in Honolulu, at the edge of Chinatown.
What should I see at the shrine?
See the shrine’s traditional design and observe the prayer customs, including washing hands at the entrance basin.
Can you buy Omamori at the shrine?
Yes. Omamori charms are sold at the shrine office, including charms exclusive to Hawaii.
When is the shrine busiest?
New Year celebrations draw people from around Oahu. Parking is limited during busy periods.
