(Photo special to Hawaii 24/7)

Special to Hawaii 24/7

Kona Hongwanji Buddhist Temple in Kealakekua celebrated Children Day on Sunday, April 27.

Children pounded mochi the traditional way and learned how to make the sweet rice soft. The rice was then made into patties sprinkled with corn starch.

Church members as well as Kona Hongwanji Judo Club members had a choice on how to eat the mochi: with kinako, natto, strawberries, peanut butter, or with shoyu and sugar.

In Japan, Girls Day is celebrated March 3 and Boys Day is celebrated May 5. In recent history, the Buddhist temple celebrates the special days together as Children’s Day.

(Photo special to Hawaii 24/7)

(Photo special to Hawaii 24/7)