We know going to a new temple can be intimidating especially when parts of the service are literally in a different language (or two). We hope you can experience the warmth and healing of Kobo Daishi when you visit our temple, so we have included some information about your visit.

Finding a Service
​Sunday services are usually held on the second and fourth Sundays of the month beginning at 10am. Services may be moved or combined for major events throughout the year, so please check our calendar and news feed.

learn more about services

Coming for a Blessing or Private Service
Open blessings are held on the 21st of each month from 6am to noon. No appointments are required.

Koboji holds a variety of private services for individuals and families. No two services are alike, but a lot of the information on this page will still apply.

Location & Directions

Koboji is located in Kalihi Valley on North School Street. Vehicle access to Koboji is via Lo'i Kalo Lane. Please use caution as Lo'i Kalo is a narrow single-lane driveway. Parking is available in Koboji's two lots.

What to expect?

How long is a usual service?
Sunday services usually last about an hour. Ministers will open the service with chanting of selected san (praises of the Buddha) and sutras. The congregation joins in with the printed service book.

What's the dress code?
Please dress comfortably. So long as it is respectful, even t-shirts and shorts are acceptable. We ask that caps and footware be removed before entering the temple hall.

What do we chant?
The Sunday service is conducted in English with chanting in Japanese. The sutras and mantras that we chant in the service were introduced to Japan by Kobo Daishi (Kukai). We chant in the same style and pronunciation as taught by Kukai. All mantras are contained in a printed service book. 

What about the incense offering?
Generally, we offer three stick incense called senko or three pinches of powdered incense called shoko​. We were taught that the first is for the Buddhas who watch over our ancestors, the second is for our ancestors who watch of us, and the third is for our community here. We know offering incense can be intimidating, but you are welcome to offer incense as long as it is offered from the heart.