The Mystery of Gobosei: Japan’s Magical Pentagram Symbol
When Western travelers visit Japan, they are often surprised to see a familiar symbol etched into ancient stone torii gates, embroidered onto amulets, or displayed proudly on shrine banners: the pentagram. While Western pop culture frequently associates the five-pointed star with the occult or witchcraft, in Japan, this symbol is known as the Gobosei (五芒星). Far from being a sign of malice, it is a profound emblem of protection, balance, and the mystical arts of the Heian period.
To understand the spiritual landscape of Japan, one must look beyond the Buddhism and Shintoism seen on the surface and delve into the world of Onmyodo—the way of Yin and Yang. Here, the Gobosei reigns supreme as a seal against evil spirits.
Origins: The Way of Yin and Yang
The Gobosei is not merely a star; it is a geometric representation of the universe’s fundamental forces. Its roots lie in ancient Chinese philosophy, specifically the theory of the Five Elements (Wu Xing). Introduced to Japan around the 5th and 6th centuries, these concepts evolved into the distinct Japanese practice of Onmyodo.
The five points of the Gobosei represent the five elements that compose the physical world:
- Wood (Ki)
- Fire (Hi)
- Earth (Tsuchi)
- Metal (Ka)
- Water (Mizu)
The lines connecting these points symbolize the cycle of creation and destruction. For example, Wood feeds Fire, Fire creates Earth (ash), Earth bears Metal, Metal collects Water (condensation), and Water nourishes Wood. Conversely, Water extinguishes Fire, Fire melts Metal, and so on. The Gobosei represents the perfect balance of these forces. When the star is drawn, it is believed to create a mystical barrier that evil cannot penetrate because it represents a closed, infinite cycle of energy.
The Legend of Abe no Seimei
The Gobosei is inextricably linked to one man: Abe no Seimei (921–1005 AD). He was a legendary Onmyoji (yin-yang master) who served the imperial court during the Heian period. Seimei was essentially the Merlin of Japan—a figure of immense power, wisdom, and mystery.
According to legend, Seimei adopted the pentagram as his personal crest, known as the Seimei Kikyo (Seimei Bellflower), because the shape resembles the flower. However, its utility was far greater than mere decoration. Seimei taught that the symbol could control spirits and exorcise demons. Because the star can be drawn in a single stroke without lifting the brush, returning to the starting point, it symbolizes an infinite loop that traps evil or prevents it from entering a space.
Folklore recounts stories of Seimei using the Gobosei to command Shikigami (servant spirits) to perform tasks ranging from closing doors to fighting supernatural threats. Today, he is venerated not just as a historical figure, but almost as a deity of wisdom and protection.
Modern Culture and Pop Media
While the Gobosei has ancient roots, it remains a vibrant part of modern Japanese culture. The mystique of the Onmyoji has fueled countless manga, anime, and movies.
Fans of anime might recognize the symbol and the chanting of spells in series like Twin Star Exorcists or Tokyo Babylon. The character of Abe no Seimei has appeared in various iterations, often portrayed as a beautiful, enigmatic bishonen (handsome youth) wielding magical paper charms.
Perhaps the most famous modern cultural intersection occurred in the world of figure skating. Olympic champion Yuzuru Hanyu performed a legendary free skate program titled “Seimei,” set to the soundtrack of the film Onmyoji. His costume was stylized after the robes of a Heian courtier, featuring the Gobosei star. This performance reignited interest in Abe no Seimei among the younger generation and international fans alike, leading to a surge of visitors to shrines associated with the master.
Traveler’s Tips: Finding the Star
For travelers seeking the mystical side of Japan, hunting for the Gobosei offers a unique itinerary. Here is how to experience this phenomenon:
1. Seimei Shrine (Seimei Jinja), Kyoto
This is the holy grail for Gobosei seekers. Built on the site of Abe no Seimei’s former home, the shrine is covered in pentagrams. You will see them on the lanterns, the tiles, and even the Torii gate—a rare sight, as Torii usually bear the crest of the shrine or no crest at all.
- Must-Do: Purchase a Pentagram Omamori (amulet) for traffic safety or protection against bad luck. Rub the bronze peach statue to ward off misfortune.
2. Kyoto’s Buses
Look closely at the logos on local buses and taxis in Kyoto. Some older companies still use symbols derived from Onmyodo principles for safe travel, a lingering influence of Seimei’s protection over the capital.
3. Souvenirs
Stickers of the Gobosei are commonly bought by locals to place on their cars or above their dedicated doorways. Buying one is a great way to bring a piece of Japanese spiritual protection home.
Sources & Further Reading
To deepen your understanding of the historical context behind the Gobosei and Abe no Seimei, the following texts and locations are recommended:
- The Nihon Shoki (The Chronicles of Japan): While predating Seimei, this classical text provides the foundational mythology and the introduction of Chinese calendar sciences to Japan.
- Konjaku Monogatarishu (Anthology of Tales from the Past): A collection of Heian-period stories that contains some of the earliest legends regarding the supernatural feats of Onmyoji.
- The Great Mirror (Okagami): A historical tale that references the life and times of the Heian court society in which Seimei operated.
- Seimei Shrine Official Archives: Located in Kyoto, offering pamphlets and historical insights into the lineage of the Abe clan.