Takenoko Sushi

Hilo


Chances are, you won't get in. This destination sushi bar seats only eight – and it's fully booked a year in advance. Miracles can happen, however, and you might savor the upper echelon of Japanese cuisine, with premium fish (mostly flown fresh from Japan), expert sushi chef, spotless setting and gracious service.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Hilo attractions

1. Hawaii Japanese Center

0.43 MILES

Hawaii's Japanese immigrant community is sizable and influential, especially in Hilo. Here, learn more about this group through plantation-era artifacts,…

2. Wailoa Center & Wailoa River State Park

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This eclectic, state-run gallery hosts a variety of monthly exhibits. You might find quilts, bonsai, Chinese watercolors or historical photos, all done by…

3. Tsunami Memorial Clock

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This tall green clock is permanently stopped at 1:04, marking the morning of May 23, 1960, when a major tsunami demolished the town. A series of seismic…

4. King Kamehameha Statue

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At the northern end of Wailoa River State Park, a 14ft bronze statue of King Kamehameha stands facing the bay. Sculpted by R Sandrin at the Fracaro…

5. Liliʻuokalani Park

0.91 MILES

Arguably Hilo's most beautiful spot, these sprawling Japanese gardens are perfect for picnicking. Named for Hawaii's last queen (r 1891–93), the 30-acre…

6. Reeds Bay Beach Park

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7. Mokuola

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Tiny Mokuola, commonly called Coconut Island, connects to land (near Liliʻuokalani Park) by a 250ft footbridge. The island is a county park with picnic…

8. Pacific Tsunami Museum

1.49 MILES

You cannot understand Hilo without knowing its history as a two-time tsunami survivor (1946 and 1960). This museum encompasses only a few rooms, but they…