Travel
Travel Guide
As you prepare to join us for our wedding and explore Oahu, we share insights from our experiences. Discover Oahu’s authentic charm, from serene beaches to bustling cityscapes. This guide, based on our past travels, aims to enhance your joyful and memorable journey in Hawaii.
Arriving in Oahu
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
Dear guests, to ensure a smooth and worry-free journey, we recommend that you plan to arrive at Oahu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport when selecting your flight itinerary. This airport serves as the main international aviation hub for the island, offering the most convenient route to Hawaii. Approximate flight durations from major cities are as follows:
Shanghai, Beijing: ~9 hours | Tokyo: ~6.5 hours
Sydney: ~9 hours | Los Angeles: ~5.5 hours | New York: ~11 hours
Oahu
On-Island Transportation
On the wedding day, we will provide bus transportation between Waikiki Beach and the wedding venue. Various options are available for exploring Oahu, including car rentals, taxis, and ride-sharing services. The public transit system is also quite robust, although limited in frequency, covering most tourist areas as an affordable travel option.
Car Rental
For those wishing to explore the entire island, renting a car is the preferred mode of transportation.
Rideshare Apps
For those interested in exploring the city area, ride-sharing services offer both convenience and efficiency.
Accommodation Recommendations
Oahu offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to beachfront resorts. Choose from ocean-view hotels in Waikiki or tranquil resorts inland for a perfect Hawaiian stay. We also recommend homestays through Airbnb for a broader, local experience.
Sheraton Waikiki
Situated at the heart of Waikiki Beach, offering unparalleled ocean views.
Hilton Hawaiian Village
A signature resort on Waikiki Beach, modern and comfort.
The Twin Fin Hotel
An affordable choice located near the beach, providing easy beach access.
Turtle Bay Resort
A luxurious resort on Oahu’s North Shore, offering exquisite dining, and stunning ocean views.
Selected Attractions
Oahu is rich in historical sites, unique cultural venues, and spectacular natural landscapes. Explore ancient palaces, modern art centers, lush rainforests, and golden beaches, each telling a Pacific cultural and natural story.
Waikiki Attractions
Diamond Head
An volcanic cone offering panoramic views , popular for hiking. *Reservation required
Waikiki Beach
Famous for its golden sand and surfing. It’s a paradise for surfers, with restaurants and shops.
Honolulu Museum of Art
Showcases classic works from Asia, Europe, and Hawaii, offering an in-depth journey through art.
Iolani Palace
It showcases 19th-century Hawaiian architecture, witnessing the history of the Kingdom of Hawaii. *Reservation required
Attractions Outside the City (Car Required)
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse
A popular viewing spot for breathtaking coastlines and sunrises.
Hanauma Bay
A ecological reserve, ideal for diving and snorkeling to observe tropical fish and corals.
Byodo-In Temple
A beautiful replica of Japan’s Byodo-In, surrounded by lotus ponds, koi fish, and kingfishers.
Manoa Falls Trail
A scenic hiking trail through lush tropical rainforest, leading to the magnificent Manoa Falls.
Diverse Cuisine
Hawaiian cuisine reflects its rich immigrant history, blending Eastern and Western flavors. Traditional Hawaiian food like Poke, made from fresh fish, sea salt, seaweed, and other condiments, is simple yet unforgettable.
Experience unique Asian flavors, including Chinese cuisine, Japanese sushi, Korean barbecue, thanks to Hawaii’s diverse immigrant communities. Don’t miss chilled beverages and desserts made from fresh tropical fruits, offering a cultural culinary journey.
Ono Seafood
A small but popular spot attracting locals and tourists alike. A top choice for Hawaiian poke.
Musubi Cafe Iyasume
Specializes in various Hawaiian musubi with options.
Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo
Offers classic sushi, sashimi, and unique creative dishes, each unforgettable.
Rokkaku Hamakatsu
Serves authentic tonkatsu and a range of traditional Japanese dishes, bringing the charm of Japanese cuisine to Hawaii.
Island Activities
In Hawaii’s tropical sunshine, every activity carries a magical charm, offering a serene yet adventurous paradise. Whether you’re a surfer, diver, or nature lover, Hawaii promises unforgettable experiences. From dancing with the wind, exploring mysterious rainforests, to relaxing on the beach, immerse yourself in its unique culture and traditions.
Hiking
Embark on a morning hike along ridges or seaside trails, welcoming the first light of day.
Snorkeling
Dive into crystal-clear waters with a snorkel to explore a different world. Each dip unveils the wonders of marine life.
Off-Road Adventures
Traverse through magnificent valleys and lush rainforests, encountering famous movie and TV filming locations like Jurassic Park.
Kayaking
Paddling through calm lakes, shallows, or near cliffs allows up-close observation of coral reefs, tropical fish, and occasional sea turtles.
Shopping Paradise
From luxury brand stores to local craft markets, Hawaii fulfills all shopping desires. Brand enthusiasts can find treasures at Ala Moana Shopping Center or luxury stores in Waikiki, while those seeking local flavors can explore various craft markets and traditional open-air markets. Additionally, Hawaiian specialty products like macadamia nuts and Kona coffee are must-buys.
Waikiki Downtown
Waikiki’s downtown streets are a shopping haven with a blend of brand stores, local shops, and restaurants.
Ala Moana Shopping Center
Ala Moana provids a shopping experience amidst unique tropical gardens.
International Market
A shopping paradise centered around an ancient banyan tree, witnessing Hawaii’s transformations and offering a tranquil atmosphere for shoppers.
Royal Hawaiian Center
This center is not just a shopping paradise but also a relaxing urban oasis with elegant architecture and serene green spaces.
Travel Suggestions
We are deeply grateful that you are traveling all the way to Hawaii to join us for our wedding. To help you make the most of your time in this tropical paradise, we’ve compiled a series of travel recommendations based on our years of experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these tips will help you have a smooth and memorable journey.
Visa and Entry Requirements
If you are coming from a country outside of the United States, please make sure you have a valid U.S. travel visa and passport before you depart. Should you require an invitation letter for your visa application, do not hesitate to contact us. We also recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip.
Regardless of whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, Hawaii has strict agricultural border controls. Please refrain from bringing any fresh produce in your luggage. We suggest you carry a pen on the plane to fill out the required entry forms.
Jet Lag Adjustment
The time difference between Hawaii and China is 18 hours, and 6 hours with the East Coast of the U.S. To minimize jet lag, we recommend adjusting your sleeping schedule prior to your trip and allocating time to rest upon your arrival in Hawaii.
Mobile and Communication
For international guests, we recommend enabling international roaming on your mobile phone or renting a portable Wi-Fi device at the airport before departing. We also suggest you carry a portable charger that complies with airline regulations to keep your phone charged during your stay. We recommend that you download Google Maps and Google Translator on your phone. For local transport, the Uber and Lyft ride-sharing apps are highly recommended.
Currency and Payments
The currency used in Hawaii is the U.S. Dollar. While many places accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting remote areas or street food vendors.
Language
The official languages in Hawaii are English and Hawaiian. While most locals speak English, knowing a few basic Hawaiian words like “Aloha” (hello/goodbye) and “Mahalo” (thank you) can enrich your experience.
Health and Safety
Hawaii has strong sunlight; please ensure you carry and regularly apply sunscreen. If you plan to participate in outdoor activities, we suggest using insect repellent.
If you engage in water activities, make sure to always use safety equipment such as life jackets. The currents and tides at some beaches can be quite strong, so consult locals before swimming in unfamiliar areas.
Travel Tips
Environmental Responsibility
Hawaii places great emphasis on environmental protection and sustainability. We urge you to minimize plastic use, respect the local flora and fauna, and choose eco-friendly activities and accommodations.
Tipping
Tipping is a common way to show appreciation for services in Hawaii. A tip of 15-20% is generally recommended in restaurants, taxis, and other service industries.
In Prepare of Emergency
In case of emergencies, dial 911 for immediate assistance. It is advisable to prepare an emergency contact list including important contact numbers and medications.
Dress Code
While the climate in Hawaii is generally warm and humid, your attire should be appropriate for the activities you have planned. If you’re hiking or exploring mountainous areas, wear lightweight but protective shoes. For formal events or dinners, more formal attire may be required.
Everyday Essentials
Besides the shopping centers we recommended earlier, you can find daily necessities at local ABC stores, Target, Walmart, and Longs Drugs. You can also order items on Amazon to be delivered to your hotel.
Wedding Day
Looking Forward to Your Arrival
Thank you for taking the time to read through our travel recommendations for your trip to Hawaii. We are eagerly looking forward to sharing our special moment with you. To ensure a smooth ceremony and to cater to the needs of all our guests, we kindly request that you register your guest information on the designated webpage. Your details will assist us in making better arrangements for your comfort and enjoyment during the event.