Hawaiian Culture & History
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Hawaiian Arts & Culture: The Expression of Aloha

The diverse culture of Hawaii is expressed in (among other things) language, music, art, theater, dance, film, cuisine and a multitude of festivals. At the core of each is the spirit of aloha, in the fluid arc of a hula dancer’s hands or in the soft rhythm of a slack-key guitar. The "Aloha Spirit" is the coordination of mind and heart within each person. It brings each person to the self. Each person must think and emote good feelings to others. In the contemplation and presence of life force.

Culture

Celebrate what makes Hawaiian culture so unique, from its rhythmic beats of an ipu under the stirring sound of a mele, to the significance of kalo, historical sites and the long-honored hula tradition.

Transformation Through Tattoo

TRANSFORMATION THROUGH TATTOO - It’s 2 a.m. on Oahu’s breathtaking, Waianae coast. At this hour, the connection between the physical and the spiritual world intermingles. In the shore break, Keone Nunes is waking up his tools for Kahekili, the god of tattooing. He does a prayer and dips his tattooing tools into the water to make them aware they’ll be doing sacred work today. It's a fairly simple ceremony, but it's embedded in thousands of years of culture…

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Surfing Like Ancients

SURFING LIKE ANCIENTS - It’s a peaceful morning at Kahana Bay on Oahu’s Windward side. There isn’t a single soul on the sand – a far cry from the bright lights and buzz of Waikiki. The waves here are legendary. Once, long ago, a Kahana Bay Chief challenged the Goddess Hiiaka – sister of Pele, the Goddess of fire – to a surfing competition in these waters. It did not go well for the Chief…

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Explore Hawaiian Culture and History

Hula

Learn more about this vital art form that blends storytelling with rhythm and motion.

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Luau

This one-of-a-kind feast is a fun and delicious way to experience Hawaii.

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History

Learn more about the history of the Hawaiian Islands and discover interesting historical experiences.

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Traditions and Customs

Hawaii's traditions and customs are drawn from across many of the diverse cultures who've called the islands home.

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Heritage Sites

Visit Heritage Sites of Hawaii, which provide historical, cultural and environmental contributions to the understanding and enjoyment of Hawaii.

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Ea Mai Hawaiinuiakea

Hear a Hawaiian Chant

Retrieved from Fornander Collection of Hawaiian Antiquities and Folk-lore, Vol. IV, Ea Mai Hawaiinuiakea speaks of the genealogy of our Hawaiian Islands and our royalty beginning with Haloa, the first man of Hawaii. Genealogy chants are important in Hawaii because they’re a reflection of one’s background. Identity allows one to better understand their kuleana (responsibility) to their place and people because they understand that they have a role to play in the continuing of this genealogy, this story of Hawaii.

Stories of the Hawaiian Islands

Puuloa’s Keeper

Puuloa, modern day Pearl Harbor, is the home of legendary sharks who protected local residents.

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The Race of the Goddesses

The island of Hawaii was shaped by an epic race between two deities, Pele and Poliahu.

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Haupu: Kauai’s Guardian

Legendary giants on the island of Kauai played a role in the island's breathtaking landscape.

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King Kamehameha I

King Kamehameha I

Read more about the history of the great Hawaiian king who lead a conquest to unify the islands. 

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Read More About Where to Find Statues of Hawaii's Heroes

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Experience the Hawaiian Islands

From adventures and sightseeing to golf and relaxation, there are lots of ways to experience the Hawaiian Islands. Find more activities and experiences. 

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