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Ebisu Shrine: A Beacon of Commerce and Resilience

Discover Hiroshima's Ebisu Shrine: A symbol of commerce, resilience, and cultural heritage, offering blessings and vibrant festivals.

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Ebisu Shrine in Hiroshima, dedicated to Ebisu, the god of commerce and good fortune, has been a vital part of the city's fabric since 1603. Despite being destroyed in the atomic bombing, it was quickly rebuilt, symbolizing the city's resilience. Today, it remains a popular spot for locals and tourists seeking blessings for business success and family well-being.

A brief summary to Ebisu Shrine

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and avoid crowds.
  • Check the calendar for local festivals, especially the Ebisu Taisai Festival in November, to experience vibrant cultural events.
  • Participate in traditional rituals by purchasing an omikuji (fortune slip) for a unique experience.
  • Explore the nearby Ebisu-dori shopping arcade for local crafts and souvenirs.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the shrine's architecture and its symbolic representation of Hiroshima's recovery from the atomic bombing.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Hiroshima Station, take the Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden) streetcar to Ebisucho Station. Several lines connect to Ebisucho Station, with a flat fare of ¥240 for adults. From Ebisucho Station, walk approximately 10 minutes south along Ebisucho Street. The shrine will be on your left. IC cards like ICOCA or PASPY are accepted.

  • Walking

    From the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, head east towards the city center. Walk along Peace Boulevard (Heiwa Odori) until you reach Chuo-dori Street. Turn right onto Chuo-dori and continue south. Ebisu Shrine is located a short walk from Chuo-dori, tucked between buildings. The walk is approximately 20-30 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Hiroshima. A taxi from Hiroshima Station to Ebisu Shrine will cost approximately ¥1500-¥2000 and take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. From the Peace Memorial Park, a taxi ride will be shorter and cost around ¥1000. Be sure to have the address written in Japanese, as many drivers may not speak English. Taxi base fare is ¥620, with additional charges per kilometer.

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Discover more about Ebisu Shrine

Ebisu Shrine, nestled in the heart of Hiroshima, is more than just a religious site; it's a testament to the city's enduring spirit and a beacon of hope for merchants and families alike. Originally established in 1603, the shrine is dedicated to Ebisu, one of the seven lucky gods of fortune, revered as the deity of commerce, good fortune, and fishing. His cheerful demeanor and association with bountiful catches have made him a beloved figure throughout Japan. Relocated from Yoshida to Hiroshima during the city's early development as a castle town, Ebisu Shrine quickly became central to the community's economic and spiritual life. Regular markets and lively entertainment sprang up around the shrine, contributing to its growing prestige. The annual Ebisu Taisai Festival in November evolved into one of Hiroshima's most important events, drawing massive crowds seeking blessings for prosperity. Tragically, the atomic bombing of 1945 devastated the shrine and the surrounding area. However, in a remarkable display of resilience, the local community rebuilt a temporary shrine within months, offering a symbol of hope amidst the ruins. This act of defiance and determination to preserve tradition underscores the shrine's deep connection to the people of Hiroshima. The current shrine, rebuilt in reinforced concrete, stands as a testament to the city's recovery. Visitors can admire the architecture, participate in Shinto rituals, and purchase omikuji (fortune slips) for a unique cultural experience. The shrine hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, providing opportunities to witness vibrant cultural traditions. The most significant is the Ebisu Taisai Festival (also known as Ebessan or Ebisu-kou) held annually from November 18th to 20th, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors. During the festival, the streets surrounding the shrine come alive with food stalls, performances, and the sale of lucky charms, particularly komazarae (decorated bamboo rakes). Ebisu Shrine offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Whether you're seeking blessings for your business, hoping for good fortune, or simply interested in experiencing Japanese culture, a visit to Ebisu Shrine is a rewarding experience.

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