Henros from Hawaii Paperback – November 27, 2025

This is a travelogue. It tells the story of four kupuna (the name for seniors in Hawaii) who travel to Japan to learn more about the 88 shrines pilgrimage on the island of Shikoku. Brian, Molly, Cliff and Gloria volunteer at a miniature version of the 750 mile Shikoku pilgrimage. This miniature pilgrimage trail was built into a hillside in 1905 by Japanese emigrants to Kauai. It was restored and opened to the public on a limited basis by Lawai International Center. Brian, Molly, Gloria and Cliff's work helping to restore this unique cultural artifact led them to be curious about the Shikoku Pilgrimage or henro. In September of 2025, the four set out to start their pilgrimage and to visit 8 of the temples on the henro trail. Each pilgrim on this trail wears a special jacket that says: "two walking as one", a reference to the presence of Kobo Daichi with all travellers. The story tells of the four pilgrim's experience in rural Japan. They battle heat, snakes and traffic with no knowledge of written or spoken Japanese. They learn of the kindness of strangers, that laughter from the islands of Hawaii is a panacea for most of their tribulations along the way. Read more