Imamiya Ebisu Shrine

Imamiya Ebisu Shrine was established in 600 AD by Shotoku Taishi, making it one of the oldest Ebisu shrines in Japan. Located in Osaka's vibrant Naniwa district, the shrine has been deeply intertwined with the city's merchant culture for over a millennium. Osaka, historically known as 'the Kitchen of Japan,' relied heavily on commerce, and Ebisu worship became central to the business community's spiritual life.

The shrine rose to particular prominence during the Edo period, when Osaka became the nation's commercial capital. Merchants would pray here before sealing important deals, and the shrine's blessings were considered essential for business success. Today, it remains one of the most commercially significant shrines in western Japan.

The shrine's main hall is a handsome structure reflecting traditional Osaka architectural sensibilities. The most distinctive feature is the rear wall of the main hall, where visitors knock on a wooden board to ensure Ebisu—said to be hard of hearing—notices their prayers. This charming custom is unique to Imamiya Ebisu and always draws smiles from visitors.

The approach along Ebisu-dori Street is lined with hundreds of food stalls during festivals, embodying Osaka's famous 'kuidaore' (eat till you drop) culture. The shrine also displays beautifully decorated bamboo branches called 'fukuzasa' (lucky bamboo), sold as good luck charms for business.

The Toka Ebisu Festival (January 9-11) transforms the shrine into one of Osaka's most electrifying celebrations. Over one million visitors pack the narrow streets to purchase decorated bamboo branches (fukuzasa) believed to bring business prosperity. Beautiful 'Fukumusume' (Lucky Maidens) are selected each year to serve as the festival's ambassadors. The festival is accompanied by a spectacular parade called the Hoekago procession.