On this upcoming Memorial Day, May 26, 2008, the 10th Annual Lantern Floating Hawaii Ceremony will be held along the shores of Magic Island at Ala Moana Beach Park on the island of Oahu. We invite the general public, as well as non-profit organizations, cultural groups, high schools and colleges to participate in this solemn and enriching event. The public may also make consolatory prayer requests from 1:00 - 6:00 p.m. at Magic Island on the same day.

Lantern floating is a time-honored Buddhist rite, originating in Japan, conducted in order to pay respects to our ancestors and to comfort the spirits of the deceased.  During Toro-Nagashi, or "lantern offerings on the water," candle-lit lanterns are individually set afloat on the ocean and are said to ferry spirits "from the sea of delusion to the shore of salvation."

Moreover, the lanterns carry our heartfelt prayers for those who have sacrificed their lives in war, victims of water-related accidents, natural disasters, famine and disease, as well as loved ones and ancestors who have passed away.  Through the lantern floating ceremony, the sincere prayers of everyone are united… prayers for a future in which harmony exists among all people regardless of one’s race, religion or culture.

Because of this sentiment and goal, Lantern Floating Hawai'i has become accepted as more than just a Buddhist tradition, more than something only related to Hawaii in nature. It is a human thing.

During the first three years of existence, the lantern floating ceremony was held at Keehi Lagoon. However from 2002, it has been conducted at Ala Moana Beach Park.

Last year, beach-goers remained seated along the shore and swimmers frolicked in the water as the ceremony was conducted. Then, as the brilliant sun began to set under a protective layer of clouds, more than 700 lanterns were set afloat from canoes paddled by members of island canoe clubs.

At the same time, from shore, more than 200 Oahu high school students and 450 public participants gently released their lanterns.  The stillness of the tranquil waters reflected the lantern’s shimmering candlelight, creating a thoughtful atmosphere.  A peaceful calmness, and warmth and joy could be felt by those present.

An estimated gathering of 34,000 people, including members of Hawaii's government, social and cultural groups, an estimated 3,000 Shinnyo-en members from all over the world, and the general public, attended the 2007 Lantern Floating Hawaii Ceremony.

In addition, Shinnyo-en members in Japan and in other cities throughout the world viewed the event on television through satellite broadcast from Hawaii.  Those in attendance at Magic Island were able to view the ceremony on Jumbo Trons.