Koboji is served by ministers and advisors from Hawaii and Japan. Advisors jointly officiate major services, including Hatsu Goma, Aoba Matsuri, Obon, and Saito Goma. All of Koboji's ministers participated in training on Mt. Koya, Japan.
KOBOJI ADVISORS
Archbishop Esho Yagi Koboji Senior Advisor
Archbishop Esho Yagi is resident minister of Myojo-in Temple in Hiroshima and Koboji's Senior Advisor. Yagi Sensei officiates several services a year at Koboji, including the annual Saito Goma fire rite. Yagi Sensei's connection with Koboji stretches back decades, beginning with his father's connections with the Okimura family ministers.
Bishop Sean Shimojima Koboji Advisor
Bishop Sean Shoyu Shimojima served at Koboji for four years as an assistant from 2007-2010. Part of his name has been inherited from Bishop Dean Zenei Okimura as proof of his discipleship. He has inherited the traditional ceremonies and services of Koboji. He serves as an Officiant of Kozenji Shingon Mission in Tokyo and is an Advisor to Koboji.
Rev. Keia Kawanishi
Rev. Keia Kawanishi serves as Deputy Chief Priest of Saichōji Temple in Suō-Ōshima, Japan. Suō-Ōshima and Hawaiʻi share deep ties, and Rev. Kawanishi enjoys strengthening these connections during his frequent visits. He is especially well known for his energetic presence during New Year and Obon observances. He also travels internationally to share Buddhist hymns (goeika) as a member of the Omuro Kongōryū choir.
KOBOJI MINISTERS
Rev. Bryan Zenju Yanagihara Koboji Minister
Rev. Bryan Zenju Yanagihara currently serves as a Koboji Minister. He was previously assistant to Archbishop Dean Zenei Okimuara. Rev. Bryan received tokudo ordination from and completed residential training under Archbishop Hidaka at Sanboin Temple in Mt. Koya, Japan. Rev. Bryan is born and raised on Oahu.
Rev. Zennoh Miyagi Koboji Minister
Tori Zennoh Miyagi serves as a Koboji Minister, leading services both at the temple and in the community, particularly for members who are unable to visit in-person. A disciple of Koyasan Sanboin, he continues his practice and study within the Sanboin lineage. Born and raised in Kāneʻohe, Tori is a fourth-generation Uchinānchu.