Background -History

Matsuri in Hawaii began in 1980 as a cultural exchange between Japan and Hawaii. Matsuri creators realized that the number of people traveling from Japan to Hawaii was increasing dramatically, and they wanted to ensure that the increased interaction between these two cultures would be both enjoyable and educational. Thus, Pan-Pacific Festival/Matsuri in Hawaii was born. In Hawaii this special event is called The Pan-Pacific Festival・and in Japan they call the event Matsuri in Hawaii. They envisioned Matsuri as a means to enrich the lives of both participating artists and guest audiences, while providing Hawaii residents with a rewarding and participatory exposure to traditional Japanese culture.

Matsuri in Hawaii was originally intended as a cultural bridge: visiting participants from Japan would be able to enjoy the familiarity of Japanese music, crafts, traditions, and foods, while Hawaii residents and other visitors would gain a deeper appreciation of Japanese sensibilities and cultural heritage.

By highlighting traditional folk music and age-old arts and crafts and bringing internationally respected performers to Hawaii, Matsuri has served Japan as a sort of cultural goodwill ambassador, introducing both Hawaii people and its many visitors to the richness of Japanese culture. Still, the most popular activities have been those that invited participation, such as the street party, parade, bon dance and gateball competition.