To collect, preserve and share the legacy of those who came before us and to inspire those who will follow.



Seeds of Local

Discover the vibrant history of Japanese Americans in Hawaii from our permanent exhibit, "Seeds of Local".

Visit information

Preserving History, Cultivating Community, and Celebrating Diversity in the Heart of Multicultural Hawaii.

UPCOMING EVENT

November 13
for HJC members only (3pm to 6pm)

November 14 - 16
(11am to 3pm)

November 20 - 23
(11am to 3pm)


こんにちわ!
Today is Wednesday, November 20

PUBLIC HOURS

Wednesday to Saturday from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.
(Closed Federal and State Holidays)

The Hawaii Japanese Center (HJC) is dedicated to preserving the rich history and traditions of Hawaii's Japanese immigrants. Through our diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, books, and documents, donated by the community, we aim to educate and inspire appreciation for Hawaii's ethnic diversity and aloha spirit. We engage the community through exhibits, speakers, films, workshops, and cultural programs, fostering partnerships with other community groups to host and promote cultural activities, ensuring the lessons of our multicultural society are passed on to future generations.

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP LEVELS

Individual - $40/yr
Family (children 18 and under) - $50/yr
Researcher and patron - $100/yr
Business/Organization - $250/yr
Lifetime Supporter - $1,000 (one time)

Membership includes free admission to HJC exhibitions, discounts on workshop fees, and special deals in our gift shop.

Download the membership application


GROUP TOURS
Students, scholars and visitors in general are invited to contact the HJC to schedule group visits. Guided tours of the exhibit and center resources by the center’s executive director/curator can be arranged. Tours are given in English. Visiting groups usually provide their own Japanese translator, if needed, or translation services can be arranged by HJC with adequate notice.

Email info@hawaiijapanesecenter.com to schedule a group tour.

FEATURED GIFT SHOP MERCH

Come checkout the Cane Haul Road Hand Towels made by Grant Kagimoto. Only $8 each!

EXHIBITION HIGHLIGHT

From the Seeds of Local exhibit

"Palaka shirts became popular in the 1920s (and 30s). The fabric was made of cotton with a blue and white plaid design. Later, many of the hapai-ko (packing cane) men began using ahina fabric for their shirts.  Ahina is a thick cotton fabric (denim) dyed blue."

— Hiroo Sato, Pahoa Yesterday, 200