Discovering Sacred Hawaii
Finding a vacation spot that touches our soul is precious and finding more than one is simply a gift that resonates within our heart always to be remembered. There are many wonderful spots in the Hawaiian islands, but three in particular touch my heart and keep me returning again and again.
The first is Byodo Temple in Kaneohe, on the island of Oahu. This gorgeous temple is located at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains which just adds to the serenity and beauty of the temple and grounds. Byodo Temple was built as a replica of the Byodoin Temple in Uji, Japan, which is on the southern outskirts of Kyoto.
Oahu’s Byodo Temple has a lovely Japanese garden, wandering peacock, a koi pond and a peace bell which visitors can ring when they enter the grounds. Ringing this bell is said to bring peace and prosperity; the sound of the bell is lovely and resonates through the gardens for others to enjoy. Visitors can walk, feed the koi fish and take time for silence. Visitors to the temple are asked to remove their shoes before entering and to enjoy the temple in silence. Here you can take time for reflection in front of a beautiful nine foot tall Buddha statue that sits on a lotus flower.
Pu’u O Mahuka is another of those amazing places that everyone should experience while in Hawaii. It’s tucked away so I only discovered it through a friend. Since then I have returned many times for the peace of the sacred grounds and the stunning view of Waimei Bay. Pu’u O Mahuka is registered as a historical site on Oahu. This heiau (temple) site is considered a sacred site to most Hawaiians so objects on the grounds of the site should not be disturbed; but the peace and beauty of the place will be memorable long after you depart.
The third spot is Pu’uhonua o Hanaunau or Place of Refuge. This is an ancient and sacred spot on the Big Island of Hawaii. Ancient priests were required to offer shelter and forgive wrong doing if a person was able to swim and reach the heilu before their pursuers caught them. This sacred spot remains a place of serenity and beauty; the energy of the area enfolds you with it’s calm and draws you to explore the grounds and enjoy the replica buildings showing what ancient life may have been like. Another treat is the unexpected visits of sea turtles which are protected and can only be watched from a distance in the park. The park falls under the Hawaii State Parks system and park rangers can be found on the grounds as well as a visitors center.
Byodo Temple Photo by: Lisa Overman
Pu’u O Mahuka Photo by The Queen of Subtle flickr photo
3 comments
Another one? Wow! You are really cranking out the island posts. The sacred element is a nice touch. David lived in Japan, and we only had an overnight there in Okinawa on our around the world trip. We both want a chance to explore the culture more thoroughly. This post about the temples and architecture is really inspiring.
Hello. Are you related to the belated Christopher Seth Whitman from the big island ?
You would need to ask Beth if she is related to the Whitman you mentioned from the Big Island.You can do that by leaving a comment on her posts. Thanks!