Lawai International Center and the 88 Shrines are located on the ancient site of Heiau where Hawaiians once came for healing—in the late 1800’s Asian immigrants who came to Kauai also recognized Lawai Valley as a healing site. They built Taoist and Shinto temples here and constructed 88 miniature Shingon shrines along a path that snakes up the steep hillside. They did this to replicate an ancient pilgrimage route in Shikoku Japan. Today, it is the only one of its kind outside of Japan. By the 1960’s the shrines had deteriorated and become nearly completely overgrown. Thanks to the efforts of many dedicated volunteers, the path has since been cleared and the shrines restored.
Lawai International Center, a non-profit community project, is an archaeological and cultural treasure in a valley recognized as a healing sanctuary. In 1904 the first generation of Japanese immigrants built 88 shrines replicating an ancient pilgrimage of 88 temples in Shikoku, Japan. Today, it is the only such site outside of Japan and is one of the oldest Buddhist temple sites in the country. Volunteers are bringing these shrines and this valley to prominence as an international center for compassion, education, and cultural understanding. Lawai International Center is well worth visiting as it is truly a place of deep historical and cultural significance. Their mission is fitting: to be a gathering place where all people are welcome to receive the true spirit of Aloha.
The center is open the second and fourth Sunday of every month with tours at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 2:00 pm or by exclusive private appointment. Come and visit the 88 shrines in this community-supported sanctuary. There will be a brief video, talk story session, and a reflective time to walk the path at your leisure.
For reservations, call or text (808) 639-5952 or email info@lawaicenter.org Please come 15 minutes before your reserved time and wear comfortable footwear for this outdoor experience. Donations are appreciated with gratitude.
