The Hilo style lei is made by twisting together processed ti/la‘i leaves. Being a multifaceted language, “hilo” serves as the noun of the completed lei and the action of integrating new leaves into the braid. Individual strands spiral in one direction and wound together in the 
opposite direction, the lei can either resemble a rope, have leaves occasionally exposed, or be very full with a leaf added in on each twist, but it becomes difficult to tell when one starts and another fades away as they are seamlessly braided together. 

Legend tells of Kamehameha visiting a friend off the Wailuku River. After several hours his tenants decided to leave their post guarding the canoe, lashing it in place with this ti-leaf 
style rope. Kamehameha recognized the technique from Waipio valley and named the area Hilo.

1923 In Hilo, Okazaki was braiding together different techniques from several martial systems creating the Sandalwood Mountain Art, Danzan Ryu Jujitsu, including elements of his home country and his current home among the bustling plantation era, including the Hawaiian martial art Kamehameha practiced, and we call lua. 2003 Thabiti Sabahive established Osoku Wakasu Dojo, bringing the AJJF to Hilo and introducing DZR to local college students. He wove together concepts from West Side Dojo and the AJJF in his classroom.

2023 Under Travis Prose’s leadership, we present the 5th annual Camp Hawaii and celebrate 20 years of Osoku Wakasu.

We can’t wait to see what’s woven in next!

Looking for the perfect sports jersey? We have you covered—made of 100% recycled polyester fabric, this shirt is breathable, moisture-wicking, and has a double-layered v-neck collar that creates a premium look.

• 100% recycled polyester fabric
• Fabric weight: 4.7 oz/yd² (160 g/m²)
• Two-way stretch fabric
• Moisture-wicking material
• Regular fit
• UPF50+ protection
• Double-layered v-neck collar
• Blank product sourced from China

This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!