There are many beloved places of worship in Osaka, but the Imamiya Ebisu Shrine has a special status. Known affectionately to locals as “Ebessan,” this elegant shrine offers serenity and the promise of fortune to those who visit. Enjoy a calm reprieve from the city’s bustle or join in boisterous celebrations during the yearly Toka Ebisu Festival.
Enter the shrine through its Mitsu-torii, a rare style of entrance that elegantly combines a large gate with two smaller ones.
The shrine was established in the early 7th century to ward away evil spirits. At the time, Ebisu was seen as the god of fishermen. However, as a nearby fish market grew and prospered, Imamiya Ebisu came to be seen as the guardian of the marketplace.
Look for representations of Ebisu, now revered as a protector of Osaka’s commerce generally. Most images still include a fish, specifically a bream, on the left side and a fishing rod on the right side.
Admire the shrine’s traditional architecture, which has been adapted over centuries of use. Appreciate the curved roof and decorative designs of the central honden or main hall. See the large stone lanterns known as toro, gifted by Nankai Railway and Kansai Electric. Major companies in Osaka make donations to the shrine throughout the year, hoping to be rewarded with business success.
Visit during the annual Toka Ebisu Festival, when the shrine is at its liveliest. This festival, held for three days every January, draws about a million pilgrims to the area.
Begin by watching a colorful parade and indulging in tasty street food. Then follow the crowds to the shrine. Join locals in buying a lucky bamboo branch decorated with symbolic charms, sold by traditionally dressed “daughters of fortune” called fuku musume.
The Imamiya Ebisu Shrine is located in the Naniwa ward, south of central Osaka. It is easily accessible through the Imamiyaebisu train station next door. Take advantage of extended hours during festival time, when the shrine remains open from midmorning to midevening. Continue on by visiting one of Osaka’s other shrines to the Seven Lucky Gods.
