Hawaii Nikkei Legacy Exhibit

Reviving Japanese Culture and Customs

In the immediate aftermath of World War II, Japanese culture and customs were unpopular in Hawaii.

However, beginning in the 1960s, the Nisei veterans helped to make Japanese culture and customs popular again. They sponsored goodwill sumo tournaments, sports exchanges and visits by popular Japanese entertainers.

They also established banks, restaurants and cultural organizations that became an integral part of Hawaii. The Hawaii of today is a blend of Hawaiian, Nikkei and many other cultures and stories.

Hawaii sumo wrestler Takamiyama (Jesse Kuhaulua) with Japanese actresses, Honolulu, Hawaii (ca.1960s).

Nisei veteran Katsugo Miho at goodwill sumo tournament award ceremony with Takamiyama (Jesse Kuhaulua), Honolulu, Hawaii.

Nisei veterans at a Chrysanthemum Ball in the Wailuku Armory, Maui (early 1960s).

Popular Japanese entertainers such as singer Misora Hibari were brought to Hawaii by Nisei veterans (ca. 1950s).