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Tōka Ebisu
Kyoto’s first major celebration of 2026, the Tōka Ebisu Festival, returns to the Kyoto Ebisu Shrine in the Gion district from January 8 to 12. Dedicated to Ebisu, the Shinto god of commerce and prosperity, this historic event draws thousands of local business owners and tourists eager to pray for a successful year ahead. While the main "Hon-Ebisu" festivities take place on January 10, the five-day schedule offers various rituals, including sacred Kagura dances and unique night-long celebrations on January 9 and 10.
The heart of the festival lies in the acquisition of fukuzasa, or "lucky bamboo" branches, which are believed to symbolize resilience and growth. Visitors select these branches and adorn them with specialized charms like koban (gold coins), sea bream, and rice bags, each representing different facets of wealth and fortune. On specific days, such as the afternoon of January 11, maiko (apprentice geisha) from nearby districts like Gion and Miyagawa participate by handing out these lucky branches and rice cakes, adding a quintessential Kyoto aesthetic to the traditional atmosphere.
One of the festival's most endearing local traditions is the practice of "knocking for Ebisu". Legend says that Ebisu is slightly hard of hearing, so after praying at the main altar, worshippers often walk to the left side of the sanctuary to gently rap on a wooden board to ensure the deity hears their wishes. Beyond the shrine rituals, the surrounding streets of Higashiyama come alive with vibrant food stalls selling seasonal snacks like takoyaki and warm amazake, making it a sensory-rich start to 2026 for anyone visiting the ancient capital.
Kyoto Tōka Ebisu event schedule | 8 - 12 January 2026
8th: Good Luck Festival
- 10:00 Hoikago Palanquin Procession
- 14:00 Yutate Kagura
- 14:30 Mochitsuki Ritual
9th: Night Ebisu Festival (open all night)
- 09:00 Good Luck Tuna Dedication
- 10:00 Hoikago Palanquin Procession
- 14:00 Inner Shrine Ceremony
10th: Tōka Ebisu Grand Festival (Hatsu Ebisu)
- 11:00 - 12:00 Lucky Bamboo presentation (from TOEI actress)
- 13:00 - 14:00 Lucky Bamboo presentation (from TOEI actress)
- 14:00 Inner Shrine Ceremony
11th: Luck Remains Festival
- 14:00 - 16:00 Lucky Bamboo presentation (from Gion Maiko)
- 20:00 Inner Shrine Ceremony
- 20:00 - 22:00 Lucky Bamboo presentation (from Miyagawachō Maiko)
12th: Lucky End Festival
- 09:00 Gates open
- 20:00 Inner Shrine Ceremony
- 22:00 Gates close
INFORMATIONS
LOCATION
Kyoto Ebisu Shrine〒 605-0811 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Komatsucho, 125 恵美須神社
075-525-0005
www.kyoto-ebisu.jp