History of Wailuku Hongwanji Mission

Recently, Frank Hamasaki shared a document he came across while cleaning his desk. The document contains a detailed record of Wailuku Hongwanji Mission’s early development — a reminder of how much dedication and effort shaped the temple we know today.

According to the record, Wailuku Hongwanji Mission began in 1898, when Reverend Hojun Kunisaki arrived on Maui to share the teachings of Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism and serve the growing immigrant community. By 1900, Reverend Tessan Funakura was serving as minister, and organized temple life was taking root.

Education became a priority early on. In 1906, the Gakuen (Japanese Language School) was established so children could learn to read and write in Japanese. Sunday School programs followed, helping young members deepen their understanding of the Dharma. The Wailuku Hongwanji Bukkyō Fujinkai was organized in 1905, and the Junior Y.B.A. was established in 1931, reflecting strong participation from women and youth in temple life.

The campus itself expanded steadily. Land was secured on Market and Wells Streets, and in 1952 a new temple and columbarium were constructed through the leadership of Chikashi Nagamatsu and the support of many members. In 1955, a new minister’s residence and Judo Hall were completed. Renovations and improvements continued in later decades, including rebuilding and expanding the Social Hall in the early 1980s.

The document also lists the ministers who served across generations and notes significant observances, including memorial services for Shinran Shonin and major anniversary celebrations. These records show that the temple’s growth required vision, financial sacrifice, and steady volunteer commitment.

This rediscovered history offers more than dates and names. It shows how ministers and members worked together to establish schools, organize youth groups, construct buildings, and sustain daily temple life. Preserving these records ensures that the efforts of earlier generations remain part of our shared story.