Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii

Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii

The Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii in Honolulu celebrates the history and legacy of Japanese Americans in Hawaii through exhibits, classes, festivals, and events. Located in the Moiliili district, it features a martial arts dojo, authentic teahouse, and museum galleries dedicated to preserving Japanese heritage and promoting cultural understanding.

Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii, Oahu

Hawaii's Japanese population has been instrumental in shaping the islands' diverse cultural landscape ever since the arrival of the first Japanese sugar plantation laborers in the late 1800s. Incorporated in 1987, this non-profit cultural center in the Mo'ili'ili neighborhood of Honolulu celebrates and educates the public about the ever-evolving Japanese-American experience in Hawaii.

For those interested in Japanese culture, the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii (JCCH) offers a wide range of programs, classes, festivals and exhibits throughout the year. One week you may hear a concert of traditional Japanese music, the next week it's a lecture on lessons learned from the bombing of Hiroshima.

The JCCH also hosts art exhibits by important Japanese artists past and present. The center features a number of excellent facilities, including a martial arts center dojo, an authentic Japanese teahouse and a 10,000 square foot ballroom with a 600-person seating capacity. The JCCH also offers classes about various topics, such as Japanese braiding, proper tea ceremony etiquette and Japanese calligraphy.

If you're interested in taking home a souvenir, you can pick up some unique Japanese antiques and collectibles at the JCCH. Tea sets, woodblock prints, kimonos, Japanese dolls and more are available for purchase.


Key Features of Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii

  • Focus on Japanese-American heritage: Dedicated to preserving and promoting the evolving history and culture of Japanese Americans in Hawaii.
  • Diverse cultural programming: Offers year-round classes, exhibitions, music, and educational lectures for all ages.
  • Authentic architectural features: Includes a traditional Japanese teahouse and martial arts center dojo on-site.
  • Community events and festivals: Hosts public events such as cultural fairs, Hiroshima remembrance activities, and artisan exhibits.
  • Gift shop with Japanese collectibles: Offers kimonos, teaware, dolls, antiques, and unique souvenirs for visitors.


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Frequently Asked Questions

🎌What is the focus of the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii?

The Center is dedicated to preserving and sharing the Japanese American experience in Hawaii through exhibitions, events, and education.

🎭What kinds of activities are offered at the center?

The center hosts art exhibits, cultural lectures, language and craft classes, and seasonal festivals.

🍵Can I participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony?

Yes, the center includes an authentic Japanese teahouse and occasionally hosts tea ceremonies and etiquette classes.

🛍️Does the center have a gift shop?

Yes, visitors can shop for Japanese antiques, teaware, clothing, and other cultural items.

📍Where is the Japanese Cultural Center located?

It is located at 2454 South Beretania Street, Honolulu, HI 96826, across from Moiliili Neighborhood Park.