⛩️ Ebisu Talk (Kiryū Nishinomiya Shrine)

Located in Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture, "Nishinomiya Shrine" is the head shrine of the Ebisu Shrine, while "Kiryu Nishinomiya Shrine" is the only shrine in the Kanto region that has been separated from the head shrine, known as "Kanto's One Shrine." The "Ebisu Kō" is a major festival held at Kiryu Nishinomiya Shrine on November 19th and 20th each year. The so-called "Ebisu Kō" is a ritual event based on the faith in "Ebisu God." According to Japanese legend, during the lunar month known as "Kannazuki" (October), all deities gather at "Izumo Taisha," and only Ebisu God remains behind as the guardian deity to protect all beings. As an expression of gratitude, people worship Ebisu God to thank him for a year of peace and to pray for a bountiful harvest, prosperous fishing, and thriving businesses. In Kiryu, there is a saying that "you should start wearing tabi socks and using a kotatsu (heated table) from the day of Ebisu Kō," which signifies the arrival of winter. Thus, "Ebisu Kō" has gradually become a beloved festive event among the people. The outdoor stalls are filled with glittering kumade (decorative rakes) and treasure ships, which are fun to look at! Kiryu Nishinomiya Shrine is located within the grounds of "Miwa Shrine," which enshrines Daikokuten, so during "Ebisu Kō," both Ebisu God and Daikokuten are worshipped. The public firmly believes that this is an important event that allows them to receive blessings from both deities of fortune. Therefore, during the festival, devotees seeking prosperity flock to the shrine, with over 200,000 visitors coming from the Kanto region each year. The Ebisu Kō festival lasts for two days. The 19th is the "Evening Festival," which runs from early morning until late at night, while the 20th is the "Main Festival," lasting until 10 PM that night. Over the course of these two days, a variety of vibrant festival activities take place one after another. There are sacred music performances offered to the deities; the dance of Shirataki Hime, which reenacts the legend of the weaver girl; as well as Ebisu Taiko, Kiryu's famous mechanized puppet theater, and the scattering of fortune beans, all showcasing the joyful atmosphere of traditional Japanese festivals. Hundreds of stalls line the approach to the shrine and the surrounding roads. The stalls are filled with lucky charms like "kumade," "treasure ships," snacks, and various goods. The streets are packed with people, making it difficult to move forward even a step. During the festival, various programs such as the scattering of fortune beans, Shirataki Kagura, folk songs, and magic performances are held, creating a lively atmosphere. Ebisu is regarded as the leader of the Seven Lucky Gods, overseeing commerce, fishing, and agriculture, and bestowing blessings upon everyone. In the deep autumn, filled with anticipation for the coming year, be sure to participate in this festival dedicated to the God of Wealth and seek good fortune for yourself. During the festival, visitors will receive a protective charm set (wooden tablet and deity statue) for the autumn grand festival.