The acreage in which the Shirakawa motel is nestled, is scattered with fruit bearing trees, a patch of taro, and a meandering path between fields bordered by a towering bamboo jungle. The remainder of a once upon a time fish packing facility is being recaptured by nature in one corner.
We were warmly greeted by Ryan, who patiently answered all of our questions about coqui frogs, beaches, and generations of traditional Hawaiian homestead.
Once inside, a smart TV, custom wood kitchenette and vanity with designer faucets, and views through charming louvered windows (with screens) to the greenery outside, made us want to stay longer in this century old, one of a kind motel.
During our walk through the grounds, Paul emerged from behind the taro he was harvesting, wielding a sickle, and a trusty fruit getting stick. We sampled a starfruit, and soursop. We learned the creation story of Haloa, the first man, whose unborn brother Kalo, having been planted in the ground, became the taro root on which the people relied heavily for subsistence.
We gained a better understanding of what it means to respect the Aina.
Thank you Ryan!
I hope the place stays like this, and we're definitely coming back. Aloha!