Une Ebisu of the Chichibu Seven Lucky Gods
Torin-ji is a Soto Zen temple founded in 1651 that enshrines Une Ebisu, one of the Chichibu Seven Lucky Gods.
Locally it is affectionately known as “Une no Ebisu-sama,” and the grounds feature many stone statues associated with the pilgrimage.
Ebisu was originally worshipped as a god of fishing, but over time came to be revered more broadly as a deity of prosperous business and abundant harvests.
At Torin-ji, the gentle-faced statue of Une Ebisu is enshrined in the Ebisu Hall within the grounds, quietly welcoming visitors who come to offer their prayers.
Each year on October 20, the temple holds the *Ebisu-ko* festival, where people give thanks for the past year and pray for good harvests, rich catches from the sea and success in business.
On this day, the usually calm and peaceful grounds fill with worshippers, yet still offer a sense of spiritual comfort and rest.
For those praying for business prosperity or bountiful crops, Une Ebisu at Torin-ji is a cherished place of support and reassurance.
