Mission Statement:

Practice, promote and perpetuate the teachings of Jodo Shin Buddhism in the most positive light.

The Sagari Fuji

The “Sagari Fuji” is called the “Hanging Wisteria” in English.

St. Shinran, the founder of the Jodo Shin Sect was born in the Fujiwara clan. This is the reason why the Hongwanji uses the crest or “mon” of the “fuji” flower.

Most of the robes and “kesa” of the Hongwanji priests, books, “uchishiki,” incense burners and many other things used in connection with the Hongwanji have designs or symbols of the “Sagari Fuji.”

Vision Statement:

Kona Hongwanji Buddhist temple aspires to be the leading Buddhist Center for West Hawaii by providing:

Spiritual guidance and support for living in the 21st century;

Propagation programs and activities that appeal to people of all ages and ethnicities;

A resource center for Pure Land/Jodo Shin Buddhism.

Established in 1897, the Kona Hongwanji Buddhist Temple has been serving West Hawaii for over 125 years. We are a community of fellow travelers joined together in revering the teaching of Shinran Shonin and saying the Nembutsu. We are committed to the inclusion of all people regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation or expression, or national origin. We seek to share with others the wisdom and compassion of Amida Buddha to realize a society in which everyone is able to live a life of harmony, peace, and gratitude.

In 1900, the first Fujinkai group in Kona was established. In 1901, 3 acres of land was purchased in Kealakekua to build a new temple. It was completed and dedicated in 1907.

In 1915, the Fujinkai raised $400 to build this stone gateway.

The social hall, preschool and kitchen facilities were built in 1967. 

The Judo hall, storage shed and tennis court were completed in 1975.