The first thing you should know is that this coffee farm originated in the 1920s and the family was still living there until 1994. It's an amazing live look at the history of Hawaii and its coffee industry, way before machines changed how the farms were used and harvested. We went early to experience this living museum and we had the privilege of meeting Paulette, a Japanese-American woman who was born and raised in the area and spent time with her best friend at this actual farm. She was able to give us a first-hand account of how everything was used in the home. She showed us how breakfast was made for the family over an open wood-burning stove. What the daily fare was and how to put together a child's lunch box. Why those foods were eaten (and still are). The traditional Japanese home is a treasure and it was so much fun to see and experience everything. Her counterpart was a gentleman (I am so sorry forgot his name), who showed us the history and workings of the coffee mill, and the harvest and production of coffee. It's amazing when you realize that it was still working in this exact manner in 1994. This is a lovely tranquil place, that is worth experiencing. It was one of our favorite places we experienced on the Big Isle. I would definitely come back here.

We really enjoyed our tour and recommend it to understand how the Kona coffee community was developed by hardworking Japanese immigrants. Etsuko (from Tokyo) and Pauline (5th generation from the area) explained how the Japanese families lived and worked in this tiny coffee growing region on the west side of the Big Island. They are only open 2 days a week and we recommend getting there when they open at 10 a.m. Yes, it costs $20 per adult but you are supporting a nonprofit historical society that brings the history of the coffee growing region to life.

This place is amazing. If you're at all interested in the recent history of Hawaii ("recent" = 1920s onward) then do try to visit. The people there show you how small coffee farmers lived - the staff were knowledgeable, enthusiastic, intelligent, and eager to share with guests. We had a fantastic time and it's well-worth a visit.

A local told us to go here instead of (or really, in addition to) the commercial coffee farms and we are so glad we did. Not only was it beautiful but incredibly educational. Pauline is a national treasure and if you are lucky she will be there the day you visit to tell you about life on the farm. Do know that you cannot buy coffee here, so that's what you go to the commercial farms for. But do not miss this experience if you love history. A true gem. Worth every penny.