Hawaii Kotohira Jinsha – Hawaii Dazaifu Tenmangu

The Hawaii Kotohira Jinsha – Hawaii Dazaifu Tenmangu is a Shinto shrine complex in Honolulu comprising seven distinct shrines set within a garden. It combines traditions from two important Japanese religious sites: one from Kagawa Prefecture and another from Fukuoka Prefecture.

Founded in 1924, this shrine brought together two separate Japanese religious traditions within a single location in Hawaii. The combination reflects efforts to preserve Japanese spiritual practices in the islands.

The Shichigosan ceremonies held from October through November celebrate children at specific ages with traditional blessings, drawing families who dress in formal clothing for the occasion.

The shrine welcomes visitors throughout the week and offers protective charms and religious ceremonies. Guests should dress respectfully and familiarize themselves with basic Shinto customs to honor the sacred space.

The shrine holds annual blessing ceremonies for pets, connecting animals and their owners through traditional Shinto practices. This practice demonstrates how Japanese religious customs have adapted to new contexts within the Hawaiian community.