Keauhou Store

     The Keauhou Store is a significant place that really obtains the flavor of old Kona. It was started by a Japanese immigrant 90 years ago when he moved to the Big Island to work as a coffee farmer. At first, the store started by selling bicycles, appliances and also offering a repair service. Along with all that, they sold the most gas out of all the pumping stations in Kona. This general store proved to be the heart of the community because the large lanai located out front was a very popular place to come and "talk story".
      This store became very popular quickly because it's such a convenient stop to get things from groceries, sporting goods, photography supplies, bicycles, to jewelry, sewing supplies and more. Even though business was flourishing, it slowly started to die off as well because with the construction of the Mamalahoa highway, traffic was diverted to the fishing area of Kona which caused a loss on the store.
      The family could no longer support the business so it was put up for sale. It was then purchased by a couple who were residence in Kona for over 30 years. They revived the old shop and today it is almost like a museum. Containing things such as old Japanese records to the milling machines the original owner invented. Most of these historical items are for display only but the store still does include popular items such as groceries and repairing items.
      The Keauhou store is a historical treasure in the coffee town of Kona because it reminds us of the family orientated businesses that used to be around.