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Our Story

Holoholo means to wander, to go out, to explore in Hawaiian—moving with curiosity, intention, and openness.


That spirit is at the heart of Holoholo In. Our name is inspired by the owner's travels, an invitation to holoholo in, slow down, and experience the world in a simple, meaningful way.

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Holoholo In was built by hand by owner Satoshi Yabuki and has been family-owned and operated since opening in 1988. Over the years, the hostel has welcomed backpackers, students, researchers, families, and groups—many of whom return again and again.
Today, Satoshi continues to manage, renovate, and care for the property alongside his wife and two children, keeping the hostel grounded in the same values it was founded on.

Holoholo Inn was inspired by a lifetime of travel and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to explore the world. Our goal has always been simple: to provide the essentials for a comfortable stay at an affordable price, so travelers can focus on experiences rather than expenses.


What began as a personal project has grown into a welcoming home for travelers from around the globe.

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Before settling in Hawaiʻi, Satoshi spent years backpacking through Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Nepal, Tibet, China, Australia, New Zealand, and the former U.S.S.R. His travels eventually led him to explore the Hawaiian Islands, where he found a lasting home on Hawaii in 1982.


By 1985, he began building Holoholo In, opening its doors three years later. When he’s not maintaining the property, Satoshi enjoys engineering projects, gardening, and meeting fellow travelers—so don’t be surprised if he’s happy to share stories or hear yours.

Look closely and you might spot paw prints on the ceilings, left behind when Satoshi’s pets eagerly “helped” during the hostel’s construction.
Holoholo In isn’t about luxury, but about warmth, care, and rich experiences. We’re grateful to continue welcoming travelers into a place built with intention, history, and heart.
Mahalo nui loa
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