An estimated 400,000 people in Japan are involved with hula. Traveling across the Pacific to be at the heart of the Hawaiian culture they emulate and embrace, these Japanese are drawn to the rhythm and sway of the dance and have spread the hula throughout their country while enhancing a cultural exchange that is also good for businesses.

They also want to learn about Hawaiian culture, history, protocol, hula dress and more. People are learning the Hawaiian language in Japan, taking up the 'ukulele, and singing Hawaiian songs and chants, said kumu hula Frank Kawaikapuokalani Hewett. Halau are everywhere and many are affiliated with local teachers.