What's On
Mānu‘unu‘u ka Welolani - The Chiefly Cultures of Polynesia
September 17, 2011 - Summer 2012
The exhibit focuses on symbols of rank, including whale ivory adornments and feathered cloaks. Also featured are utilitarian
objects ranging from stone adzes to bone and shell fishhooks.
These objects, too, were significant in Polynesian societies for their use in sustaining thriving populations, and coupled with the objects of the chiefs, characterize Polynesian material culture.
Right: Detail of the carved features of a long club from Rapa Nui. Photo By David Franzen
Mahalo to our generous sponsors:
The Native Hawaiian Culture and Arts Program (NHCAP)
Tradition and Transition: Stories of Hawai‘i Immigrants
Fall 2011 - Summer 2013
Castle Hall’s second floor gallery features special treasured stories in focus cases, a timeline of Hawaiian history, video stations, and significant artifacts and document to relay the history of Japanese in Hawai‘i.
Inspiring stories abound when the discussion centers on the challenges faced by immigrants coming to a new homeland. Tradition and Transition, Stories of Hawai‘i Immigrants presents these and celebrates the diversity brought by all ethnic groups who contribute to the economic strength and cultural multiplicity of Hawai‘i.
Tradition and Transition, Stories of Hawai‘i's Immigrants celebrates the stories of challenge and victory, tales of hardship matched with those of success. It is a story that focuses on the strength of human spirit and the power of change.
For children, a Pā‘ani Place is forfor kids to learn about multi-ethnic playthings and pastimes.
The hallway adjacent to the main exhibition gallery is Ho‘olaulea Hall, filled with large photomurals, hanging celebratory items, and smaller exhibit cases that focus on multiethnic celebrations.
At the end of the Ho‘olaulea Hall, will be Ho‘okipa Parlor, a recreation of the interior of a plantation home living room, welcoming visitors who wish to sit a while and browse books on various local ethnic traditions or watch some old news reels of plantation-era Hawai‘i.
Tradition and Transition: Stories of Hawai‘i's Immigrants is funded by generous gifts from the Atsuhiko & Ina Goodwin Tateuchi Foundation and Hawai‘i Imin Shiryo Hozon Kai.
Hawaiian Hall
The three floors of Hawaiian Hall take visitors on a journey through the different realms of Hawai‘i. 
The first floor is the realm of Kai Ākea which represents the Hawaiian gods, legends, beliefs, and the world of pre-contact Hawai‘i.
The second floor, Wao Kanaka, represents the realm where people live and work; focusing on the importance of the land and nature in daily life.
The third floor, Wao Lani, is the realm inhabited by the gods; here, visitors will learn about the ali‘i and key moments in Hawaiian history.
Polynesian Hall - Opening Spring 2013
Polynesian hall is a gallery of two floors representing the peoples of Pacific cultures across Polynesia, Micronesia and Melanesia.
Explore the Polynesian origins of our islands' people in these fascinating artifacts of ritual, daily life, warfare, religion, clothing, music and dance.
Abigail Kinoiki Kekaulike Kāhili Room
The Abigail Kinoiki Kekaulike Kāhili Room honors cherished ali‘i and
displays the precious Kāhili (feather standards)
associated with them.
On display here are portraits of the Hawaiian Monarchy and some of their personal effects.
Richard T. Mamiya Science Adventure Center
This 16,500 square-foot facility
adds a new dimension to the Museum
by providing exhibits that are immersive
and interactive – with a strong emphasis
on better understanding Hawai‘i’s environment.
Visitors become active participants in exploring areas of science in which Hawai‘i has gained international recognition for cutting edge research – including volcanology, oceanography, and biodiversity.
Hawai‘i Sports Hall of Fame
The Hawai‘i Sports Hall of Fame records for all time, with pictures and memorabilia, the outstanding accomplishments of Hawai'i's sports history.
The primary goal of this exhibit is to encourage our youth to emulate these outstanding athletes for their devotion, dedication, pursuit of athletic excellence and steadfast character.
