Aloha & Welcome
to Akiko's Buddhist Bed & Breakfast
About Akiko
Thank you very much for visiting with us. Akiko's Buddhist Bed & Breakfast is located along the lush and tropical Hamakua Coast, 15 miles north of Hilo.
Akiko Masuda, host and owner, is a 3rd generation Japanese woman, born in Honolulu in the 40's, long before freeways, shopping malls, email, cell phones and hand held devices. She is a writer of children's books, student of tai chi, yoga and zen meditation.
Akiko has been living in Wailea Village since '91, the first person to buy in this quiet, peaceful country village in 35 years. Wailea is a wee, still-intact, plantation village with about 12 households which have seen very little change—a fleeting flashback in time. Please come and discover the peace and kindness here.
Watch the trailer for "August at Akiko's" — a film that was shot right here at our property, capturing the unique spirit of this special place.
The Spirit of This Place
Our deep love for Hawaii flows through every moment here—its beauty, its human naturalness, its modesty and magnificent contrasts.
Yin and yang dance together: the dynamic interplay of soft and hard, cold and hot, silky and bumpy, modest and wild. Here you'll find both yoga and zazen stillness, the rhythm of older Hawaii—slower, more humane.
We welcome those whose lives could deepen and transform, who seek awakening to simplicity and authentic human connection. In gratitude to our ancestors and in service to all who come.
Accommodations
Intimately nestled in a grove of banana trees. Hear the winds, rain dancing on the tin roof, and falling mangoes when in season.
7 night minimum • Shared kitchen & bath
16 x 24 screened studio space, completely open to the outdoors. Experience living harmony: being outdoors and indoors simultaneously.
7 night minimum • Queen bed • Shared kitchen & bath
Our "community house" - a sanctuary where deep friendships are built. 4-bedroom, 2-story classic with veranda overlooking Hawaiian garden.
7 night minimum • Shared spaces • 3 rooms available
Home of Aloha and Warmth. Beautiful 3-bedroom, 1½ bath home surrounded by flowers and fruit trees. Sleeps up to 4 people.
7 night minimum • Up to 4 guests • Private home
Activities & Experiences
Zazen Meditation
Sit Zazen meditation Wednesday & Friday nights—7:00-8:15 p.m. in our peaceful meditation space.
Yoga & Tai Chi
Practice restorative yoga 6-7:30pm Monday & Thursday, and attend tai chi & chi gong classes at Hakalau Jodo Mission.
Japanese Folk Dance
Join Japanese Folk dance practice and connect with the cultural heritage of the islands.
Community Activities
- • Hakalau Farmers Market & FoodSHARE
- • Work in the gardens on 2-acre grounds
- • Occasional dinners and movies with guests
- • Explore the citrus orchard and breadfruit grove
- • Island exploration and cultural sites
The Hamakua Coast
The drive to Akiko's on Highway 19 is a colorful panorama of small plantation communities with small rusted tin roof houses, mom and pop stores, sweeping ocean vistas, farmlands, pastures, rushing streams and breathtaking waterfalls.
All that make our Hamakua Coast so extraordinary: a Special Place, whose spirit, cultural history, values, land, and peoples are honored and perpetuated.
Sacred Amenities
Large, open studio with wooden floors and natural lighting, perfect for yoga, tai chi, and movement practices. Features exposed beam ceiling and views of tropical gardens.
Traditional meditation hall for zazen practice and quiet contemplation. A serene space designed for deep spiritual practice and group meditation sessions.
Two-Acre Tropical Paradise
Wander through our lush tropical gardens featuring native Hawaiian plants, fruit trees, and peaceful pathways. The grounds include citrus orchards, breadfruit groves, and countless quiet spots for reflection and connection with nature.
Guest Reflections
Voices from the hearts of those who have experienced the transformative power of this sacred sanctuary
"To stay at Akiko's Buddhist B&B is to step into Old Hawai'i, a place and time and way of life that is a wonder to discover. The sounds of gentle wind chimes and waterfalls, the fragrances of gardenia and meditation incense... invite a feeling of reverence for life's simplest gifts."— Katy Fogg
"Being a guest at Akiko's Buddhist B&B is a blessing. The surroundings support peace, love and a deep respect for the beauty of the environment. It offered me a space for reflection and an opportunity to 'slow down' the pace of my busy life."— Deb Keyes, Harbor Springs, Michigan
Connect With Us — Inquiry About Booking
Inquire About Booking
For reservations and inquiries, please call Akiko at (808) 963-6422 or fill out the booking inquiry form. She will help you find the perfect retreat space for your stay.
A Special Place
Located in Wailea Village, a quiet, peaceful country plantation village that has seen very little change—a fleeting flashback in time. The spirit, cultural history, values, land, and peoples are honored and perpetuated through our community.