Banyan Tree at the International Market Place

I wanted to capture the experience of the ginormous banyan tree filling the courtyard of Waikīkī's International Market Place. Looking straight up you'll notice that many of the “trunks” you see are actually roots sprouting from lofty branches. Still, the panorama only captures a tiny part of the whole tree which is as large as a city block. Link to the aerial map to compare it to the similarly-sized buildings it lives amongst.

This century-old tree creates a natural awning in the midst of an overly developed and touristy area, a welcome retreat from the concrete jungle all around. In its dappled shade dozens of vendors sell clothing, souvenirs and jewelry. Artisans work their crafts too—you might even find a Tarot card reader.

The International Market Place is slated for redevelopment which leaves the fate of the tree uncertain. Perhaps the developers will incorporate the banyan, or parts of it, into the new design. If you think you want the real experience you'd best make plans soon, just to be sure.

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Pacific Ocean / Pacific Ocean

Lat: 21° 16' 39.73" N
Long: 158° 50' 36.69" W

Elevation: 2 meters; 7 feet

→ maps.google.com [EXT]

Precision is: High. Pinpoints the exact spot.

Canon 500D, Sigma 8mm, Nodal Ninja 3, PTGui Pro 8.3.7.