Japan wins for 100+ year old companies

Japan is said to be the country with the largest number of companies in the world that have been established for more than 100 years. In honor of that, today, and October 20th annually is "Long Established Store Day" . The reason it is October 20th is because this is a special day to honor Ebisu, one of the seven lucky Gods who is the patron saint of business and merchants (among others).

Ebisu, who is known for holding a fishing rod and sea bream, has been worshipped since ancient times as the patron saint or "god of business". October 20th is "Ebisu-ko" an auspicious day in Ebisu's honor. Businessmen (among others) visit the shrine to pray for prosperity and safety. Depending on the region, you can find markets and stalls for "Ebisu-ko" at shrines.

There are several stores in my second home, Kawagoe City, that have been around for more than 100 years and even more than 200 years. In every city I have lived in, in Japan, I can easily find a store or business with a long history. It is one of the many things I love about Japan. I am also lucky that my own country, Ireland, is also that way, but as a much smaller country we lose to Japan in terms of numbers. How about in your home country - can you easily find a store or company that is in operation more than 100 years?