Address
Off Kalanianaole Highway, Honolulu, HI 96825
TMK
(1) 3-9-012-002
SHPD Historic Site Number
50-80-15-09391
Abstract
The Ojizo (guardian) Monument stands at the Bamboo Ridge overlook at Halona Point (Koko Head). It is among the significant Honolulu stone monuments carved by sculptor and engraver Sentaro Otsubo, whose primary business was carving gravestones. This is the third Ojizo at this location; vandals destroyed the first two free standing statues placed there to protect fisherman who frequent this popular and challenging ulua fishing spot. The Monument, carved and installed in 1935, is made of lava rock and uses the engraved carving method in which inscriptions are incised and material removed leaving recesses that allow light and shadows to describe the bas relief and calligraphy. The Ojizo Monument is significant under Criterion C as an excellent example of twentieth century stone carving. It is also significant under Criterion A for its contribution to the theme of the creation of permanent stone monuments around southern O‘ahu to honor Issei and Nisei Japanese American ancestors.
This list of Hawaii’s historic properties is provided as a public service by Historic Hawaii Foundation. It is not the official list of properties designated on the Hawaii State Register of Historic Places. For official designations and determinations of eligibility, contact the State Historic Preservation Division of the Department of Land and Natural Resources of the State of Hawaii at 808-692-8015.