Hakka fellowship! Great people, amazing food and good times!
Parking:
I love that meetings are on Sundays because parking is FREE on the street! If you can find a meter parking stall open, make sure to take it because if you try to find a closer stall, usually there is none and when you circle around, it'll be taken. It's Chinatown and a lot of Chinese people love their free parking too! If you can't find a stall which is common, you can park in the municipal parking garages. It's a lot less to park in those than on the street level open lots that you pay to park. Municipal garages are also shaded so your car won't be sitting in the hot sun! You'll thank me when you go back to a cool car versus an oven if you park in an open lot.
Ambiance:
This place is located in Chinatown on Maunakea St. closer toward Beretania Street. Going down Maunakea, it's on the left side. The front entrance is slightly hidden and the sign is small. You'll know you're there when you see stairs. For younger people, the stairs won't be an issue but there is a lot of stairs to walk up before you reach the general meeting area. They do have a motorized chair taking elderly up the stairs and for those who have trouble walking. They have it as an open concept floor plan so they can do with the area accordingly with each event they have here. Lots of chairs and tables in the corners. The inside looks a little old but it's an old place, a part of Hawaii history. Once you walk in, one of the first things you'll notice is the pictures of the past presidents of the organization hanging on the wall. It's very humbling to be part of a group with so much history.
People:
The group often organizes banquets with tons of delicious food! Most of the members are elderly and older. Only recently we had younger members join and actively attend the meetings and banquets. Everyone here is very casual and extremely nice. They have been very welcoming of me and everyone else that joined after me. The members are Hakka or have a link to Hakka heritage. We learn about our history at every meeting while discussing upcoming events. After every meeting, we get lunch which is great! Meetings and events are posted on their website:https://sites.google.com/site/tsungtsinhi/ read more