Kyoto Ebisu Shrine, Kinki Kansai Travel Guide

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Pray for prosperity at Kyoto Ebisu Shrine, one of Japan's most important shrines dedicated to the god of business and good fortune.

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Kyoto Ebisu Shrine

Kyoto Ebisu Shrine, nestled in Higashiyama Ward, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Ebisu, one of the Seven Gods of Fortune, and patron of business and fishermen. Founded in 1202 by Kennin-ji Temple's founder, it's a popular spot for prayers of prosperity, especially during the lively Tōka Ebisu Festival in January.

A brief summary to Kyoto Ebisu Shrine

Komatsucho, 125 恵美須神社, Kyoto, Komatsucho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0811, JP
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kyoto Ebisu Shrine.

Visit during the Tōka Ebisu Festival (Jan 8-12) for a lively atmosphere and the chance to purchase lucky bamboo.
Toss a coin at the rake on the second torii gate for good luck.
Knock on the wooden panel behind the main sanctuary to ensure Ebisu hears your prayers.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Kennin-ji Temple, founded around the same time as the shrine.

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Getting There

Walking

From Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan Line), the shrine is approximately a 9-minute walk. Exit the station and walk south along Yamatooji Street. The shrine will be on your left, just before you reach Shijo Street.
Public Transport

From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus number 206 to the 'Shijo Keihan Mae' bus stop. The shrine is about a 5-minute walk from the bus stop. Walk south on Yamatooji Street.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Kyoto. A short taxi ride from Kyoto Station to Kyoto Ebisu Shrine will typically cost around ¥800-¥1000, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Kyoto Ebisu Shrine

Kyoto Ebisu Shrine, located just south of Kennin-ji Temple in Kyoto's Higashiyama Ward, is one of Japan's most important shrines dedicated to Ebisu, the patron of business, fishermen, and one of the Seven Lucky Gods. Unlike the other six gods who originated from China and India, Ebisu is the only one to have originated in Japan.Founded in 1202 by Eisai, the founder of Kennin-ji Temple, the shrine's origin is rooted in a legend where Eisai prayed to Ebisu during a storm at sea and was safely guided back to Japan. In gratitude, he established the shrine to honor Ebisu.Known locally as 'Ebissan,' the shrine is particularly famous for its Tōka Ebisu Festival, held annually from January 8th to 12th. During this vibrant festival, business owners and locals gather to pray for good fortune and success in the coming year. A key tradition involves purchasing lucky bamboo branches ('fukuzasa') and decorating them with charms symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Shrine maidens perform 'kagura' dances to bless the bamboo branches.Visitors often toss coins at a rake beneath Ebisu's image on the second torii gate, hoping their wish will come true if the coin lands successfully. Another unique custom is to knock on a wooden panel behind the main sanctuary after praying, as Ebisu is considered hard of hearing. The shrine also holds a smaller festival called Hatsuka Ebisu on October 19th and 20th.