What's On ▼

American Heroes: 
Japanese American WWII Nisei Soldiers and the 
Congressional Gold Medal

March 9 through April 14, 2013

Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum is honored to be one of only seven museums in the country to host the Congressional Gold Medal, awarded to Nisei World War II veterans in recognition of their exceptional service, sacrifice and loyalty to America. The limited-run exhibition, American Heroes: Japanese-American WWII Nisei Soldiers and the Congressional Gold Medal, shares the inspiring story of men who fought with bravery and valor on the battlefields of Europe and Asia, even as many of their loved ones back home were held in internment camps. 


Mānu‘unu‘u ka Welolani - The Chiefly Cultures of Polynesia

Fall 2011 - Spring 2013

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.


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 immigrants in Hawai‘i.


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 Summer 2013

Polynesian hall is a gallery of two floors representing the peoples of Pacific cultures across Polynesia, Micronesia and Melanesia.

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

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.


Campus Map