Futen: The Legendary Wind God of Japanese Mythology
If you have ever walked beneath the massive red lantern of the Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa, Tokyo, you have likely felt the gaze of two terrifying figures. To the left stands the God of Thunder, but to the right stands a green-skinned deity clutching a massive bag of air over his shoulders. This is Futen (often called Fūjin), the Japanese God of the Wind.
While his fierce expression suggests menace, Futen is a beloved guardian figure in Japanese culture, representing the wild, untamable power of nature. For travelers and culture enthusiasts, understanding Futen unlocks a deeper appreciation of Japanese art, religion, and the country’s relationship with the elements.
Origins: A Journey Along the Silk Road
Although Futen is deeply embedded in Japanese Shinto and Buddhist traditions, his origins trace back thousands of miles and distinct civilizations away from Japan. Futen is a prime example of the cultural transmission that occurred along the Silk Road.
Historians and art scholars trace Futen’s iconography back to the Greek wind god, Boreas. Following the conquests of Alexander the Great, Greek artistic styles blended with Buddhist concepts in the Gandhara region (modern-day Pakistan and Afghanistan). This Greco-Buddhist art traveled eastward into China and eventually arrived in Japan around the 6th to 7th centuries.
In Japan, he was incorporated into the Twelve Devas (Juniten) of Esoteric Buddhism, known as Fūten (Heavenly Wind). Over time, he became syncretized with indigenous Shinto beliefs, evolving into the figure we recognize today: a demon-like deity wearing leopard skin, riding on clouds, and carrying a large bag containing the winds of the world.
The Legend of Futen and Raijin
Futen is rarely seen alone. He is almost inextricably linked with Raijin (the Thunder God). Together, they represent the dual forces of the storm. According to Japanese mythology, these deities were born from Izanami, the primal creator goddess, shortly after she died and descended into the underworld.
The Battle for Control
Legends say that Futen and Raijin were originally evil demons who fought against the Buddha. However, after a fierce battle with the Buddha’s army, they were captured, converted, and tasked with working as guardians of the Dharma (Buddhist law). This transition from malevolent force to benevolent protector is a common theme in Japanese folklore.
The Divine Wind
Futen is also historically associated with the Kamikaze (Divine Wind). During the Mongol Invasions of Japan in the late 13th century, massive typhoons destroyed the invading fleets twice. The Japanese people attributed this salvation to Futen and Raijin answering their prayers, solidifying the gods’ status as protectors of the nation.
Modern Culture and Symbolism
Today, Futen remains a vibrant part of the Japanese cultural landscape. He is not merely a statue in a museum; he is a living symbol of resilience.
- Irezumi (Tattoos): Futen is a highly popular motif in traditional Japanese tattooing. His image symbolizes protection, courage, and a free-spirited nature.
- Pop Culture: From video games like Pokémon (seen in the character Tornadus) to anime series like Naruto, the archetype of the wind god carrying a bag of air appears frequently.
- Agriculture: In rural Japan, farmers still offer prayers to Futen before the harvest season, asking him to hold back the destructive typhoons and allow for a gentle breeze instead.
Traveler’s Tips: Where to See Futen
If you are planning a trip to Japan, there are specific locations where you can view the most magnificent representations of Futen. Here are the top recommendations:
1. Senso-ji Temple (Tokyo)
The most famous depiction of Futen is at the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) in Asakusa. The statue on the right side of the gate is Futen. Note the dynamic movement in the sculpture; he looks as if he is about to dash off into the sky.
2. Sanjusangen-do (Kyoto)
For art history lovers, this is a must-visit. The temple hall features 1,001 statues of Kannon, but flanking the main altar are the National Treasure statues of Futen and Raijin. Created in the Kamakura period, these are considered the masterpieces of the Kei school of sculpture. Their realism and muscular detail are breathtaking.
3. Kennin-ji Temple (Kyoto)
Here you will find the iconic Wind and Thunder Gods Screen (Fujin-Raijin-zu) painted by Tawaraya Sotatsu. While the original is a National Treasure often kept in museum storage, the temple displays high-quality replicas that allow you to see the gods set against a spectacular gold-leaf background.
Sources & Further Reading
To dive deeper into the mythology of Futen and the Japanese creation myths, the following historical texts and resources are essential:
- The Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters): The oldest extant chronicle in Japan, detailing the birth of the gods.
- The Nihon Shoki (The Chronicles of Japan): The second-oldest book of classical Japanese history.
- Japanese Buddhist Sculpture by The Tokyo National Museum.
- The Silk Road: A New History by Valerie Hansen (for context on the transmission of iconography).