Who is Ebisu?

Ebisu, the Japanese god of fortune, is an entity that brings happiness to people with his smile.
He is especially known as the god of prosperity in business and bountiful catches, and is enshrined at many shrines across the country. His friendly character and bright smile make him popular with foreigners too! In this article, we'll give you an easy-to-understand introduction to Ebisu-san.

What kind of god is Ebisu?

Ebisu-san is one of the Seven Lucky Gods and the only one from Japan. His main characteristics are:
'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school)The guardian deity of prosperous business:
It is trusted by merchants.
'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school)God of fishing: He has a big fishing rod with which to catch fish, and a bag full of fish (or snapper).
'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school)Smile symbolism: She has a gentle smile that heals people.

Ebisu-sama is loved by many Japanese people as a god symbolizing a rich life and prosperity.

A festival where you can meet Ebisu-san

The famous festival in which Ebisu plays a leading role is the "Tenka Ebisu". It is held at Ebisu shrines all over Japan around January 10 every year. This festival is an event to pray for prosperity in business, and has the following customs in particular:
'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school)Fukuzasa (lucky bamboo):
People attach lucky charms to bamboo poles and take them home, as they are a symbol of prosperity in business.
'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school)"Ebessan" shouts:
In the Kansai region, Ebisu-san is affectionately called "Ebessan."
'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school)Lively atmosphere: The stalls are lined up and the place is filled with worshippers.
It's also a great opportunity for foreigners to experience local Japanese culture!

Ebisu's unique characteristics
'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school)Approachable:
Unlike a dignified god, he has the presence of a kind grandfather.
'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school)Have a snapper:
He is holding a sea bream, which is considered to be an auspicious fish, because it is associated with the word "auspicious."
'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school)Massive appearance:
A voluptuous figure is a symbol of abundance.

Additionally, in the Honmachi area of Osaka, where Clover Gakuin is located, the following two shrines are famous for enshrining Ebisu.

Horikawa Ebisu Shrine
Affectionately known as "Kita no Ebessan," this shrine is worshipped as the god of prosperity in business. It is crowded with many worshippers during the "Toka Ebisu" festival, which is held every year from January 9th to 11th. 

Imamiya Ebisu Shrine
Known as "Minami's Ebessan," he is widely worshipped as the god of prosperity in business and good fortune. Many worshippers visit the shrine especially during the "Toka Ebisu" festival.

Ebisu-san is a part of Japan's heartwarming culture. Paying a visit to the smiling god is sure to be a heartwarming experience.
A visit to the "Toka Ebisu" festival and Ebisu Shrine is a rare opportunity to learn about Japanese life and beliefs. Be sure to go and meet Ebisu-san at least once!