Lili'uokalani Gardens
Lili'uokalani Gardens is a serene 30-acre public park in Hilo featuring the largest Edo-style Japanese garden outside of Japan. Built in the early 1900s as a tribute to Japanese immigrants, the garden includes koi ponds, red bridges, pagodas, and scenic views of Hilo Bay. It's a favorite spot for peaceful strolls, morning exercise, and quiet reflection by the water.
Lili'uokalani Gardens, Big Island
Named after Hawaii's last reining queen, Lili'uokalani Gardens is a 30-acre park containing expansive Japanese gardens that were built in the early 1900s. The park is located on Banyan Drive, southeast of downtown Hilo on the Waiakea Peninsula in Hilo Bay. It mainly consists of Edo-style Japanese gardens and is said to be the largest outside of Japan. Located within the gardens is Waihonu Pond, as well as red bridges over koi ponds, statues, pagodas, rock gardens, stone lanterns and even a Japanese teahouse.
One of the park's most popular uses with local residents is for an early morning workout. The hours before lunch see a plethora of fitness-minded locals don their running shoes to go for a jog whilst taking in the pleasant scenery along the trails that run through the gardens.
There is a footbridge across to the nearby Moku Ola Island (also known as Coconut Island). Moku Ola means "island of life" in the Hawaiian language. A temple dedicated to healing used to be located here, hence the island's name. Moku Ola Island is a great place for a picnic with its expansive views to the Hilo bayfront and downtown Hilo. Off to the east is a large breakwater that protects Hilo Bay from tsunamis (which have hit Hilo in the past).
Key Features of Lili'uokalani Gardens
- Largest Edo-style garden outside Japan: Authentic design with traditional bridges, ponds, and teahouse
- Tribute to Japanese heritage: Dedicated in 1917 to honor Japanese immigrants on the Big Island
- Waihonu Pond: Central koi pond surrounded by stone lanterns and lush landscaping
- Footbridge to Coconut Island: Access to nearby Moku Ola for picnics and bay views
- Free public park: Open daily with no admission fee, ideal for walking, jogging, and relaxation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about Lili'uokalani Gardens?
It's the largest Edo-style Japanese garden outside of Japan, offering tranquil landscapes, koi ponds, and red bridges inspired by classical Japanese design.
Is there an admission fee?
No, the gardens are part of a public park and are free to visit daily.
What can I see at the gardens?
Expect to see stone lanterns, pagodas, koi ponds, a Japanese teahouse, and a scenic footbridge to Coconut Island (Moku Ola).
Where is Lili'uokalani Gardens located?
The park is located along Banyan Drive and Lihiwai Street in Hilo, on the Waiakea Peninsula of Hilo Bay.
Is it suitable for a morning walk or jog?
Yes, many locals use the walking paths in the garden for jogging or morning exercise while enjoying the peaceful setting.