Published on
November 6, 2025
The yearly Ebisu Great Festival, one of the most ancient and finest events of Hiroshima, Japan, is going to light up the center of Hiroshima downtown starting from November 18. This age-old ritual at the Ebisu shrine located in the Naka district has been bringing good luck to around the four hundred and twenty years old local shops. The festival has not only cultural aspect but it has also turned out to be a great tourist attraction, thus, significantly helping the city’s tourism.
The History of Ebisu Grand Festival: A Celebration of Prosperity
The Ebisu Grand Festival, known as Ebisutaisai in Japanese, has been an integral part of Hiroshima’s cultural fabric for more than four centuries. The event is held annually in honour of Ebisu, the Japanese god of prosperity, particularly in business and trade. The festival’s roots date back to the Edo period, where it was established to pray for the success and good fortune of merchants and local businesses. Today, it continues to serve that purpose, with a spiritual connection to the city’s commercial growth and well-being.
A Glimpse into the Festival’s Festivities
At the heart of the festival is the Ebisu Shrine, located in the bustling Naka Ward, where locals and visitors alike gather to participate in rituals that invoke Ebisu’s blessings. The festival’s most iconic feature is the Komazarae, or lucky bamboo rakes, which are sold around the shrine. These rakes are said to bring good fortune and prosperity to those who purchase them, making them a must-have souvenir for festival-goers.
The event draws not only residents of Hiroshima but also tourists from across Japan and abroad, eager to experience this unique cultural celebration. One of the highlights is the Ebessan, a lively procession that includes a spectacular evening kagura performance and taiko drum performances. These traditional performances take place on a pedestrian-only street in the heart of downtown Hiroshima, transforming the area into a vibrant cultural hub.
New Attractions and Activities for Tourists and Locals
This year, the Ebisu Grand Festival has introduced a number of new activities aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and boosting tourism. In addition to the traditional performances, tourists can look forward to a wider variety of food stalls offering local delicacies, including Hiroshima’s famous okonomiyaki (savory pancake) and fresh oysters from the Seto Inland Sea.
For those looking to dive deeper into the cultural significance of the festival, the event organisers have arranged for guided tours of the Ebisu Shrine and its surroundings, providing visitors with fascinating insights into the history of the festival and the shrine itself. These tours are a great way for tourists to explore Hiroshima’s rich cultural heritage while learning more about the city’s spiritual and historical significance.
Moreover, for those looking for a more immersive experience, there are opportunities to participate in traditional Japanese arts and crafts workshops, such as calligraphy and kimono wearing. These activities give tourists the chance to engage with the festival in a hands-on way, offering a deeper connection to the cultural traditions of Japan.
Boosting Local Tourism and Economy
The Ebisu Grand Festival has become an essential component of Hiroshima’s tourism calendar, significantly contributing to the local economy. As one of the city’s three major festivals, alongside the Tokasantaisai in June and the Sumiyoshi Festival in July, the festival attracts thousands of visitors every year, providing a much-needed boost to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.
According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), events like the Ebisu Grand Festival play a crucial role in driving both domestic and international tourism to Hiroshima. The festival not only attracts tourists during the event itself but also encourages them to explore the city’s other cultural and historical landmarks, such as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Miyajima Island, and the Hiroshima Castle.
The increase in tourist numbers during the festival period helps to support local businesses and provides an opportunity for small enterprises around the shrine to thrive. The selling of “Komazarae” is just one example of how the festival’s economic impact extends beyond the major tourist hubs, benefitting local artisans and market vendors.
A Deepened Cultural Experience for International Visitors
The Ebisu Grand Festival offers tourists more than just a visual spectacle; it provides a chance to experience the true spirit of Japanese culture. Visitors to Hiroshima are not just passive observers, but active participants in the festival’s celebrations. From watching traditional performances to sampling regional cuisine and shopping for local crafts, the festival offers a multifaceted cultural experience that tourists can carry with them long after the event ends.
As international travel continues to recover, the festival serves as a reminder of the unique opportunities that Japan’s smaller cities offer to tourists. Hiroshima, with its mix of modern vibrancy and historical depth, is an ideal destination for travellers seeking a rich and authentic cultural experience.
Ebisu Grand Festival: A Key to Hiroshima’s Cultural Revival
The Ebisu Grand Festival is more than just a religious or cultural event; it has become a key driver in Hiroshima’s tourism recovery and economic growth. By incorporating new activities and expanding its offerings for tourists, the festival continues to evolve, attracting both new visitors and returning festival-goers year after year. It serves as a reminder of the city’s resilience and the enduring importance of cultural heritage in shaping modern tourism.
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