comscore Furry, feathered friends welcome for blessing | Honolulu Star-Advertiser
Every act of aloha counts. Click here to DONATE to the MAUI RELIEF Fund.
Briefs | Features

Furry, feathered friends welcome for blessing

Honolulu Star-Advertiser logo
Unlimited access to premium stories for as low as $12.95 /mo.
Get It Now
  • BRUCE ASATO / BASATO@STARADVERTISER.COM

    Ally Carlyle blesses Eloise Kuni and her service dog, Kuni, in 2016 at the Hawaii Kotohira Jinsha-Hawaii Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine. The annual Chinowa blessing returns today from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Kalihi.

The Hawaii Kotohira Jinsha-Hawaii Dazaifu is once again hosting its annual Chinowa blessing for people and pets from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. today in Kalihi.

The Shinto shrine invites people of all faiths along with their leashed or caged pets to partake in the summer blessing, which is steeped in ancient tradition. Pets are considered spiritual creatures that provide unconditional nurturing, according to organizers. At the special blessing, participants may walk through the Chinowa, a large ring that represents renewal and purification, to celebrate and honor their loyal companions.

People have brought their pet cats, dogs, rabbits, roosters and parakeets, but stuffed animals representing a pet are also welcome.

Reservations are not required for the event, which is free and open to the public.

The Hawaii Kotohira Jinsha-Hawaii Dazaifu is at 1239 Olomea St. Additional parking is available at Damien Memorial School, 1401 Houghtailing St., with a free shuttle. The shuttle, however, does not allow pets on board. Organizers recommend that drivers drop off accompanying pets and people first, then park at Damien and take the shuttle. Visit e-shrine.org for more information.

Comments (0)

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines.

Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.

Click here to view ongoing news coverage of the Maui wildfires. Sign up for our free e-newsletter to get the latest news delivered to your inbox. Download the Honolulu Star-Advertiser mobile app to stay on top of breaking news coverage.

Be the first to know
Get web push notifications from Star-Advertiser when the next breaking story happens — it's FREE! You just need a supported web browser.
Subscribe for this feature

Scroll Up