Ebisu

The God of Prosperity and Good Fortune

Ebisu is one of Japan’s most beloved Shinto deities, known as the god of prosperity, fishermen, commerce, and agriculture. Recognizable for his smiling face and friendly appearance, Ebisu represents honest work, good fortune, and the blessings of bountiful harvests and successful business.

Ebisu’s origins are complex and tied to ancient Japanese mythology. In some stories, he is identified with Hiruko (蛭子), the first child of the creator gods Izanagi and Izanami. Born without bones or with a deformed body, Hiruko was set adrift at sea and eventually transformed into the cheerful and benevolent god Ebisu. Over time, Ebisu became distinct from this sorrowful beginning, embodying joy, resilience, and success.

Ebisu is often depicted wearing a tall fisherman’s hat (kazaori eboshi), holding a fishing rod in one hand, and carrying a large sea bream (tai) in the other — a symbol of good luck in Japan. These attributes emphasise his role as a patron of fishermen and merchants.

Worship and Shrines Ebisu is widely worshipped throughout Japan. Many shrines dedicated to him can be found in fishing towns, commercial districts, and farming communities. People pray to Ebisu for safe journeys at sea, plentiful catches, thriving businesses, and general prosperity. Festivals honoring Ebisu are major events where merchants, business owners, and locals visit shrines to seek blessings for wealth and success in the coming year. These festivals often feature lively markets, performances, and rituals.

Ebisu is one of the Seven Gods of Fortune (Shichifukujin) in Japanese folklore. Among them, he is unique for being a purely native Japanese god rather than one introduced from abroad. His cheerful, approachable image makes him especially popular in art, decorations, and charms that symbolise good luck.