Pali Pagoda

"The structure was built as a Buddhist memorial. This Japanese pagoda is best viewed from the Pali Highway. Built in 1966, it is a 1.5 times replica of the 16th century Sanju Pagoda of Minami Hokko-ji, Nara, Japan. In 2003 the structure was placed on the Hawai'i Register of Historic Places." http://wikimapia.org/5480450/Sanju-Pagoda-of-Nuuanu

Kill Bill Kendo

This seemed like a scene from Kill Bill but it's a Kendo class at the Japanese Cultural Center. Students young and old study this discipline on a weekly basis. It was exciting to see those swords in action as they struck each other at lightning speeds.

Fish

  

The benefits of having a friend whose dad is a sushi chef is of course the best sashimi fish for dinner. Pictured is a beautiful onaga, salmon cuts, fresh ahi, a tray of uni, and abalone. Other dishes served were rib eye, sauteed clams, and a variety of sushi. Thanks for the invite!

Ramen Nakamura

Ramen Nakamura on Kalakaua Ave. is known for their oxtail ramen. Ramen shops in Honolulu have recently become popular and each noodle shop has it's own special soup base. Although oxtail ramen is popular here, I'd recommend the miso ramen any day! Click here to see other photos on facebook.

Sichigosan

Seven, five, and three or Sichigosan in Japanese are the ages that a blessing ceremony is done. Offering thanks and asking for good fortune is what parents have the Japanese priests bless their children with. The girls and boys all dress up in the traditional kimono outfits. I especially like the bright colors and the ornate designs of the outfits.