Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods: A Guide to the Shichifukujin
Walk through the streets of Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, and you are bound to encounter them: a group of seven jovial figures, often depicted sailing on a ship filled with treasures. Known as the Shichifukujin (七福神), or the Seven Lucky Gods, these deities are an integral part of Japanese folklore and religious culture.
For travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Japan’s spiritual landscape, the Seven Lucky Gods offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s history of syncretism—the blending of different religious beliefs into a harmonious whole. Whether you are looking for business success, artistic inspiration, or longevity, there is a god in this group for you.
The Multicultural Origins
The Shichifukujin are a perfect example of Japan’s ability to absorb and adapt foreign cultures. Contrary to what one might expect, this group is not entirely Japanese. In fact, they comprise an international assembly of deities from India, China, and Japan.
Historically, the grouping became popularized during the Muromachi period (1336–1573). It represents the merging of three distinct traditions: Shinto (Japan’s indigenous spirituality), Buddhism (from India via China), and Taoism (from China). Only one of the seven, Ebisu, is strictly native to Japan. Three hail from the Hindu-Buddhist pantheon of India, and three are from Chinese Taoist-Buddhist traditions.
The Legend of the Treasure Ship
The most iconic image associated with the Seven Lucky Gods is the Takarabune (Treasure Ship). According to legend, the gods sail into port on New Year’s Eve from the heavens, bringing fortune to believers for the coming year.
Children are often told to place a picture of the Seven Lucky Gods on their Takarabune under their pillow on the night of January 1st. Doing so is said to induce a lucky “first dream” (Hatsuyume), ensuring happiness and prosperity for the year ahead. If you dream of the ship, Mount Fuji, a hawk, or an eggplant, your luck is sealed!
Meet the Seven Gods
Each deity presides over specific domains of luck and virtue. Here is who you need to know:
1. Ebisu (The God of Fishermen)
Easily recognized by his fishing rod and a large red sea bream (tai) tucked under his arm, Ebisu is the god of prosperity, wealth, and fair dealings. As the only indigenous Japanese god in the group, he is often associated with agriculture and the bounty of the sea.
2. Daikokuten (The God of Wealth)
Often paired with Ebisu, Daikokuten is the god of commerce and trade. He originated from the Hindu deity Mahakala. He is depicted standing on bales of rice, holding a magical mallet that grants wishes and a large sack of treasures slung over his shoulder.
3. Benzaiten (The Goddess of Arts)
The only female in the group, Benzaiten originates from the Hindu goddess Saraswati. She is the patron of music, arts, and knowledge. You will usually see her holding a biwa (a traditional Japanese lute). She is closely associated with water and is often enshrined near ponds or the ocean.
4. Bishamonten (The God of Warriors)
Dressed in full armor and holding a spear, Bishamonten is the god of war and the protector against evil. Derived from the Hindu god Kubera (and later the Buddhist Vaisravana), he brings luck in battles and defense. Despite his fierce appearance, he is a benevolent protector.
5. Fukurokuju (The God of Wisdom)
Distinguished by his unusually elongated forehead, Fukurokuju is a Taoist deity from China. He is the god of wisdom, luck, and longevity. He is often accompanied by a crane or a turtle, symbols of long life in Japan.
6. Jurojin (The God of Longevity)
Often confused with Fukurokuju, Jurojin is also a Taoist deity representing longevity. He appears as an elderly man with a staff and a fan, often accompanied by a deer. He is known to enjoy sake and is a cheerful figure.
7. Hotei (The God of Happiness)
Perhaps the most recognizable to Westerners as the “Laughing Buddha,” Hotei is based on a real Chinese monk. With his round belly and large sack, he represents contentment, happiness, and magnanimity. He is said to give away his few possessions to the poor.
Modern Culture
Today, the Shichifukujin are everywhere. You can find them as cute anime characters, on lottery tickets, and as golden statues in department stores. They symbolize the material and spiritual desire for a “complete” life. During the New Year season, the Shichifukujin Meguri (pilgrimage) is a popular activity where families visit shrines dedicated to each of the seven gods to collect stamps and blessings.
Traveler’s Tips
If you are visiting Japan, engaging with the Seven Lucky Gods is a great way to explore local neighborhoods.
- Do the Pilgrimage: The Yanaka Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage in Tokyo is one of the oldest, established in the Edo period. It takes you through charming, historic streets.
- Collect Goshuin: Buy a Goshuin-cho (stamp book) and collect the calligraphy stamps from the temples you visit. There are specific stamps for the Seven Lucky Gods.
- Buy Omamori: Look for amulets featuring the god that aligns with your current goals—be it Benzaiten for artistic success or Daikokuten for financial gain.
Sources & Further Reading
To deepen your understanding of the historical context of these deities, the following texts are invaluable:
- The Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters): As the oldest extant chronicle in Japan, this text provides the mythological background for Ebisu. Many scholars link Ebisu to Hiruko, the first child of the creator gods Izanagi and Izanami, who was cast adrift in a reed boat.
- The Golden Light Sutra (Konkomyo-kyo): This Buddhist text was instrumental in introducing the Four Heavenly Kings to Japan, of which Bishamonten (Vaisravana) is the leader.
- Taoist Texts: For understanding the origins of Fukurokuju and Jurojin, researching the Sanxing (Three Star Gods) of Chinese folklore provides essential context on the migration of these concepts to Japan.