Among Tokyo’s many stylish districts, Ebisu has a special charm. Perched on hilly slopes, the area gathers sophisticated shopping complexes and international restaurants, while also being home to many foreign residents. It is a place where comfort and high-class living, everyday life and a touch of the extraordinary, mingle harmoniously. Ebisu is also conveniently adjacent to Shibuya and Daikanyama, making it easy to access and explore as part of a day in Tokyo.
When deciding where to have dinner in central Tokyo,
Ebisu is a neighborhood worth remembering. Let’s take a closer look at what
makes it so distinctive.
The Origin of the Name “Ebisu”
Ebisu (えびす) is one of Japan’s “Seven Lucky Gods,” a group that includes
deities from Buddhism, Hindu traditions, and Japan’s own ancient beliefs. He is
depicted holding a fishing rod and a sea bream, symbolizing prosperity in
business and bountiful catches from the sea. To this day, Ebisu remains a
beloved figure.
And yet, the direct origin of the neighborhood’s name is
not the god himself, but rather—beer.
In 1887, the Japan Beer Brewery Company (which later
became Sapporo Breweries) was founded. In 1890, it launched “Yebisu Beer.” At
the time, beer was still new in Japan, but the company imported brewing
equipment from Germany and invited master brewers to produce beer in earnest.
With the god Ebisu as its logo, the beer grew in
popularity. After World War II, the brand temporarily disappeared during the
restructuring of Sapporo Breweries, but consumer demand led to its revival. In
December 1971, “Sapporo Yebisu Beer” was relaunched, and its reputation has
only grown since.
Even today, among Sapporo’s many brands, Yebisu Beer
holds a special place. Known for its rich and premium flavor, it is considered
a “beer for when you want to treat yourself,” beloved by many fans.
Many assume that the beer was named after the
neighborhood, but in fact it is the opposite: the beer brewery gave its name to
the station, which in turn gave its name to the town.
Beer Trivia of Ebisu
- The Third Man theme: The zither melody from Anton Karas’s soundtrack to The Third Man
became closely associated with Yebisu Beer through long-running TV
commercials. Many Japanese recognize it more as the “Yebisu Beer song.”
Today, it is also the departure melody at Ebisu Station.
- “YEBISU” vs. “EBISU”: The beer brand is spelled with a “Y” as “YEBISU,” while the station
and town are spelled “EBISU.” Spotting these subtle differences can be a
fun detail when walking around.
- Beer mug street lamps: Look closely at Ebisu’s street lamps—you may find tiny beer mug
motifs hidden in their design, especially charming on a nighttime stroll.
Ebisu Garden Place
No discussion of Ebisu is complete without mentioning Ebisu
Garden Place. Built in 1994 on the former site of the Yebisu Beer factory,
it is now a large, multi-purpose complex. With European-style streets and
cobblestone squares, it offers a touch of continental elegance in the heart of
Tokyo.
Highlights include:
- Museum of Yebisu Beer: Learn about the history of beer while enjoying tastings.
- Yebisu Garden Cinema: A refined movie theater screening everything from art-house films to
international hits.
- YEBISU BAR: The official bar where visitors can sample freshly brewed Yebisu
Beer, seasonal varieties, and special food pairings.
- Tokyo Photographic Art Museum: Japan’s only museum dedicated exclusively to photography and moving images, hosting a wide range of international and domestic exhibitions.
By night, the central clock tower and streets are
illuminated, creating a romantic atmosphere. In winter, the famous
illuminations make Ebisu Garden Place one of Tokyo’s top date spots.
A Culinary Town
Today, Ebisu is known for its exceptional dining scene. Around Ebisu Garden Place and beyond, you will find everything from sushi and soba to steakhouses, churrasco, Chinese, and multi-national cuisine. French dining is especially notable here—most famously, Joël Robuchon’s Château Restaurant, housed in a grand chateau-style building within Ebisu Garden Place, considered one of Tokyo’s finest French restaurants.
Ebisu also excels in more casual dining. Numerous
izakaya, wine bars, and British-style pubs cater to beer lovers, while Ebisu
Yokocho offers a uniquely friendly experience.
Located in a repurposed
shopping arcade, Ebisu Yokocho recreates the nostalgic charm of a Showa-era
alleyway, packed with small izakaya. Visitors—Japanese and international
alike—often remark how easy it is to make new friends over drinks here.
Enjoy a Drink in Ebisu
Ebisu is a district where the good fortune of an ancient
god and the indulgence of fine beer intersect. International yet warm, refined
yet approachable, it is a place where every walk brings a small discovery. If
you are visiting Tokyo, take some time to enjoy a glass of beer in this “city
of Yebisu,” and experience the blend of history, culture, and culinary delights
that make it truly unique.
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