[ WEEKEND SCENE ] Island-style fun as seen through the camera’s eye

Dance of diversity

People of all ages enjoy
a Buddhist cultural tradition

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DENNIS ODA / DODA@STARBULLETIN.COM Several bon dances took place around Oahu on Saturday as the Obon season kicked into full swing. At the Tendai Mission of Hawaii in Nuuanu, it wasn't just dancing that made the day enjoyable for some people. Ellen Takamoto and her grandniece, 8-year-old Tiffany Okamoto, enjoyed a bowl of saimin. Takamoto said they had to eat before they danced.

DENNIS ODA / DODA@STARBULLETIN.COM 88-year-old James Kunichika sang during the Tendai Mission's bon dance wearing a traditional happi coat. In Japan he was awarded the Emperor's Silver Sword Award for perpetuating the Japanese culture in Hawaii. CORRECTION Wednesday, July 16, 2003 >> The Matsuri in Hawaii Committee of the 24th Annual Pan-Pacific Festival awarded James Kunichika its 2003 Silversword Award. A photo caption on Page A4 Monday incorrectly said he won the Emperor's Silver Sword Award in Japan. The Honolulu Star-Bulletin strives to make its news report fair and accurate. If you have a question or comment about news coverage, call Editor Frank Bridgewater at 529-4791 or email him at fbridgewater@starbulletin.com.

DENNIS ODA / DODA@STARBULLETIN.COM The cross-generational appeal of bon dances was evident at the Koboji Shingon Mission on School Street, where Betty Delacuesta and her granddaughter Lydia Morikawa had fun dancing.

DENNIS ODA / DODA@STARBULLETIN.COM Mark Tom, left, and Noele Kajiwara held hands as they danced the last dance at the Koboji Shingon Mission, the "electric slide." Also enjoying the dance behind them was Sheilah Lee.

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