Step back in time at Hawaii Plantation Village, a living history museum in Waipahu that preserves the multicultural heritage of Hawaii’s 19th- and 20th-century sugar plantations. With over two dozen restored homes and community buildings, this immersive experience brings to life the stories of the island’s plantation workers and their global roots.

Recommended For

History Buffs: Learn about Hawaii’s sugarcane era, from its early boom to its mid-century decline, through immersive, well-preserved exhibits.

Cultural Explorers: Explore homes and traditions of workers from China, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Portugal, and more.

Families: Enjoy guided tours, seasonal festivals, hands-on cultural activities, and interactive displays for all ages.

Event Seekers: Don’t miss highlights like the Haunted Plantation in October or the festive O-Bon and Chinese New Year celebrations.

What to Expect

  • Historic Setting: More than 25 authentic plantation structures reconstructed with personal artifacts, furniture, and period detail.
  • Guided Tours: One-hour-and-a-half walking tours held Monday–Saturday in English (Japanese upon request).
  • Botanical Garden: Explore the grounds dotted with Asian and Caribbean plants brought by immigrant workers.

Exhibit Highlights

  • Japanese Duplex (1910): Furnished to represent everyday life of Japanese plantation workers.
  • Chinese Society Building (1909): Reflects communal cultural practices like Bible study and celebrations.
  • Korean & Okinawan Houses (1919): Traditional family dwellings showcasing ancestral customs.
  • Filipino Dormitory & Portuguese Forno: Authentic living quarters demonstrating diverse cooking and living styles.
  • Wakamiya Inari Shrine (1914): A preserved religious shrine brought by Japanese immigrants.
  • Plantation Store, Union Hall & Infirmary: Community structures that depict the daily operations of plantation life.

Special Events & Programs

  • Haunted Plantation: Hawaii’s most chilling Halloween experience, featured by the Travel Channel.
  • Chinese New Year Festival: Food tastings, Shinto blessings, and plantation games in February.
  • O-Bon Festival (June): Japanese cultural performances, food vendors, and family crafts.
  • Ghost Tours: Evening events with chilling personal stories and folklore by Ghost Folks Hawaii.
  • Other Events: Ohana Days, the Great Malunggay Festival, and the annual Legacy Awards Dinner.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Monday–Saturday, tours offered hourly
  • Duration: Guided tours last approx. 90 minutes
  • Languages: Tours available in English or Japanese
  • Group Bookings: Recommended for parties of 8 or more; school and organization tours welcome
  • Gift Shop: Browse handmade crafts, cookbooks, traditional music, and toys

Visitor Info

Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection. Many structures are outdoors and unshaded. Arrive early for tours—walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended for groups.

Plan Your Trip