Discover Fukujin: Japan’s Seven Gods of Fortune

If you have ever strolled through the bustling streets of Tokyo or wandered the quiet temple paths of Kyoto, you have likely encountered them: a jolly group of deities, often depicted laughing, carrying sacks of rice, or playing musical instruments. These are the Fukujin, or Gods of Fortune. While there are many deities in the Japanese pantheon, the most famous group is undoubtedly the Shichifukujin (Seven Lucky Gods).

For travelers and culture enthusiasts, understanding these figures offers a fascinating window into Japanese religious syncretism and the country’s deep-rooted pursuit of happiness, longevity, and wealth. Let’s embark on a journey to meet the divine team that brings luck to the Land of the Rising Sun.

The Origins: A Divine International Team

What makes the Fukujin particularly fascinating is that they are not purely Japanese. In fact, they represent one of the earliest examples of an “international team” of superheroes. The group is an eclectic blend of Shintoism, Buddhism, and Taoism, reflecting the Japanese ability to adopt and adapt foreign concepts into a harmonious whole.

Among the seven, only Ebisu is indigenous to Japan. The others hail from India (Hinduism/Buddhism) and China (Taoism/Buddhism). The grouping of these specific seven deities likely solidified during the Muromachi period (1336–1573), popularized by merchants and artists who wanted a comprehensive set of patrons covering all aspects of a prosperous life.

The Legend of the Seven

To understand the Fukujin, one must meet the members of this divine entourage. They are often depicted sailing together on the Takarabune (Treasure Ship), arriving from over the sea to distribute happiness.

1. Ebisu (Japan)

The god of fishermen and commerce. He is the only native Japanese member, often identified with the Shinto deity Hiruko. He is easily recognized by his conical hat, a fishing rod in one hand, and a large red sea bream (tai) tucked under his arm.

2. Daikokuten (India)

Originally the Hindu warrior deity Mahakala (an avatar of Shiva), in Japan, he evolved into a jovial god of agriculture and wealth. He stands on rice bales, holds a wish-granting mallet (uchide no kozuchi), and carries a sack of treasure.

3. Benzaiten (India)

The only female member of the group. Originating from the Hindu goddess Saraswati, she is the patron of arts, music, and wisdom. She is usually depicted playing the biwa (Japanese lute) and is associated with water and snakes.

4. Bishamonten (India)

A fierce warrior god derived from Vaisravana. He protects against evil and brings fortune to soldiers and doctors. Unlike the others, he wears full armor and carries a spear and a small pagoda.

5. Fukurokuju (China)

A Taoist deity symbolizing wealth (fuku), happiness (roku), and longevity (ju). He is portrayed as an elderly man with an elongated forehead, often accompanied by a crane or turtle, symbols of long life.

6. Jurojin (China)

Often confused with Fukurokuju, Jurojin is also a god of longevity. He carries a staff with a scroll attached (containing the lifespan of all living things) and is usually smiling like a benevolent grandfather.

7. Hotei (China)

Based on a semi-historical Chinese monk (Budai), Hotei is the god of contentment and happiness. He is the “Fat Buddha” often seen in Western culture, characterized by his large exposed belly and a sack of goods which he gives to the poor.

Modern Culture and Traditions

The Fukujin are not just dusty statues in museums; they are active participants in modern Japanese life, particularly during the New Year (Oshogatsu).

It is a popular tradition to place a picture of the Seven Lucky Gods on their treasure ship under one’s pillow on the night of January 1st or 2nd. The goal is to induce a lucky dream, known as Hatsuyume (First Dream). If you dream of the gods, Mount Fuji, a hawk, or an eggplant (in that order of luck), the coming year is said to be filled with prosperity.

In pop culture, the imagery of the Fukujin appears everywhere, from anime and manga to lottery ticket advertisements and pachinko parlors, serving as ubiquitous mascots for good luck.

Traveler’s Tips: Finding the Fukujin

If you are visiting Japan, seeking out the Fukujin is a rewarding cultural activity known as Shichifukujin Meguri (Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimage).

Go on a Pilgrimage

Many cities have designated pilgrimage courses connecting seven different temples or shrines, each dedicated to one of the gods.

• Tokyo: The Yanaka Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimage is one of the oldest, dating back to the Edo period. It’s a fantastic way to explore the nostalgic “Shitamachi” (old downtown) atmosphere.
• Kamakura: This coastal town offers a scenic pilgrimage route that allows you to hike and see the Great Buddha along the way.

Collect the Goshuin

Bring a Goshuin-cho (stamp book) on your pilgrimage. At each temple, you can receive a calligraphy stamp comprising the deity’s name and red vermillion seals. Completing a book with all seven stamps is considered a powerful charm for the year.

Buy a Kumade

If you visit a shrine during a festival, look for Kumade (bamboo rakes) decorated with the faces of the Fukujin. These are meant to “rake in” luck and money for your business or home.

Sources & Further Reading

For those interested in diving deeper into the mythological roots of these deities, the following texts and subjects provide excellent context:

• The Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters): Essential for understanding the origins of Ebisu (often linked to the child-god Hiruko).
• The Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan): Provides further context on early Shinto mythology.
• Japanese Buddhism History: To understand the transformation of Indian Devas (like Mahakala and Saraswati) into Japanese Kami.
• Butsuzo: A Guide to Japanese Buddhist Statues (Various authors) for iconography identification.