, HI, USA
Tanoshii Hawaiʻi Keiki Summer Camp is a unique, culturally enriching program designed to engage children in hands-on learning experiences rooted in Hawaiʻi’s diverse heritage, with a special focus on Japanese culture and local traditions. “Tanoshii,” meaning “fun” in Japanese, reflects the camp’s mission to create joyful, meaningful, and memorable experiences for every participant.
Campers ages 8-13 years old explore a wide range of interactive activities including traditional arts and crafts, music and movement, cultural games, storytelling, and culinary experiences. Through activities such as bon dance, taiko drumming, shibori dyeing, and seasonal celebrations, keiki gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural influences that shape Hawaiʻi’s community.
Our program emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and cultural connection. Campers learn directly from experienced instructors, local artists, and cultural practitioners who bring authentic knowledge and passion to each session. In addition to cultural exploration, the camp fosters social-emotional growth, teamwork, and confidence in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Tanoshii Hawaiʻi Keiki Summer Camp is ideal for elementary and middle school-aged children and welcomes participants of all backgrounds. Whether your child is discovering these traditions for the first time or building on prior knowledge, they will leave with new skills, friendships, and a stronger connection to the vibrant cultures of Hawaiʻi.
Join us for a summer of fun, learning, and cultural discovery!
Tanoshii Hawaiʻi Keiki Summer Camp is more than just a place for fun—it’s a space where children explore culture, creativity, and community in a hands-on, joyful way. Campers get to try new activities like bon dance, taiko drumming, ikebana, and traditional Japanese arts, all while making friends, building confidence, and learning more about themselves. Families love the safe, supportive environment, the variety of engaging programs, and the way each day is filled with learning, laughter, and unforgettable experiences.
Tanoshii Hawaiʻi Keiki Summer Camp is perfect for children ages 8–13 who are curious, creative, and eager to explore new experiences. It’s ideal for keiki who enjoy hands-on activities, trying traditional Japanese arts and cultural practices, and participating in active games and group projects. The camp is especially suited for children who want to connect with Hawaiʻi’s unique cultural heritage, learn about the Japanese-American community, and discover how these traditions are part of everyday life in Hawaiʻi while making new friends, building confidence, and learning more about themselves.
| Ages: | 7–13 |
| Type: | Day |
| Gender: | Co-Ed |
| Setting: | City |
| Sports: | Karate |
| Adventure: | Hiking |
| Academics: | Creative Writing, History |
| Arts: | Arts & Crafts, Calligraphy, Painting, Print Making, Choreography |
| Health: | Fitness, Social Skills |
You won’t be charged yet. The camp will contact you to confirm all terms first.
| Dates | Days | Price | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 20 - Jul 24, 2026 | 5 | $300 |
Accommodations
Tanoshii Hawaiʻi Keiki Summer Camp is a day camp running from 8:00 AM to 2:15 PM. Campers enjoy a full day of activities and learning, and should be dropped off and picked up at the scheduled times.
Meals
To keep every camper safe, especially those with food allergies, we ask that children bring their own lunch, snacks, and water each day. Be sure to pack enough to fuel a full day of fun and adventure!
Medicine
Campers are responsible for bringing any personal medications. Staff do not administer medicine, so please make sure your child knows how to take it independently if needed.
Security
Safety is our top priority! Campers are supervised at all times by trained staff, and children are only released to authorized adults. We have clear drop-off and pick-up procedures, and staff are trained in first aid and emergency response to ensure a secure, worry-free environment.
Camp Traditions
At Tanoshii Hawaiʻi, campers dive into hands-on cultural experiences that celebrate Hawaiʻi’s rich traditions. From bon dance and taiko drumming to shibori dyeing and seasonal celebrations, kids have a blast learning, creating, and making lasting memories in a fun, interactive environment.
All activities at Tanoshii Hawaiʻi Keiki Summer Camp take place on the beautiful campus of the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaiʻi in Mōʻiliʻili. Campers enjoy a variety of spaces, including the Generations Ballroom, courtyard, and foyer for games and group activities, as well as the Okage Sama De historical gallery for cultural learning. We also go on short field trips around campus to explore nature and the surrounding community. The ʻOhana Room keeps all supplies and materials organized, ensuring every day is filled with fun, creativity, and hands-on learning.
Tanoshii Hawaiʻi Keiki Summer Camp offers a rich variety of hands-on cultural, artistic, and active experiences designed to engage and inspire children ages 8–13. Every day is packed with exciting activities, including bon dance and taiko drumming practice leading up to a special final-day performance. Campers also enjoy mochi making with Fujiya Hawaii, martial arts such as karate and kendo, and high-energy Japan Sports Day games.
Creative arts are a big part of the experience, with shibori dyeing, gyotaku fish printing, kumihimo braiding, and arts and crafts with local artists. Children also explore traditional Japanese culture through Nagashi somen, origami, hachimaki headbands, nerikiri sweets making, calligraphy, and ikebana flower arranging.
Campers have the opportunity to tour the Okage Sama De historical gallery and go on field trips around campus to explore nature and the local community. Each activity is hands-on, fun, and designed to help keiki develop creativity, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for Hawaiʻi’s rich Japanese cultural heritage.
Activities may include:
Bon dance
Taiko drumming (daily practice leading to final-day performance)
Mochi making with Fujiya Hawaii
Karate
Kendo
Japan Sports Day activities
Shibori dyeing
Gyotaku fish printing
Kumihimo braiding
Arts and crafts with local artists
Field trips to explore nature and the community
Nagashi somen
Origami
Hachimaki headbands
Nerikiri sweets making
Calligraphy
Ikebana flower arranging
Tour of Okage Sama De historical gallery
General Registration: $300 per camper
Member Registration: $275 per camper
The registration fee covers all camp activities, materials, and supervision for the full day.
What to Bring: Each camper should bring their own lunch, snacks, and water for the day. Campers are also responsible for any personal medications, as staff cannot administer medicine. Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended for active games, arts, and field trips.
Other Notes: Tanoshii Hawaiʻi is a day camp running from 8:00 AM to 2:15 PM on the campus of the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaiʻi in Mōʻiliʻili. Children are dropped off and picked up at designated times, and safety protocols are in place for a secure and enjoyable experience.
