In ancient Hawaii, there was a strict system of laws known as kapu that regulated many aspects of society. These rules could deal with religious practices, resource management, and behaviors relating to gender and social class. The punishment for breaking kapu could be death, unless the offender was able to flee to a sacred place of refuge, known as a pu’uhonua.
Shinto is the indigenous religion of Japan and is intimately tied to the culture there. As such, it’s not often you encounter a Shinto shrine outside of that country. A handful of shrines can be found in Hawaii due to the state’s strong Japanese heritage. One is Izumo Taishakyo Mission of Hawaii, which I took the opportunity to visit during my stay in Oahu.
During my stay on Hawaii’s Big Island, I was fortunate enough to explore Waikoloa Petroglyph Field, which is an amazing site filled with ancient petroglyphs. Visitors are able to walk a path on the lava rock and, ultimately, be surrounded by thousands of these enigmatic carvings. While their exact meanings are not entirely known, the petroglyphs are historical and cultural treasures that I was thrilled to experience.
I’ve heard it said that Hawaii is a place where East meets West. One of the most immersive examples of this can be experienced by visiting Byodo-In Temple in Kaneohe, O’ahu. Situated at the base of the Ko’olau Mountains, this stunning Buddhist temple was dedicated in 1968, commemorating the 100-year anniversary of the arrival of Hawaii’s first Japanese immigrants. With its beautiful sanctuary, architecture, and grounds, this sacred space invites reflection and contemplation.
