Japan is a land where myths and legends mix with everyday life, influencing traditions, festivals and even urban planning. Among the most venerated divine figures, the Shichifukujin – or Seven Divinities of Happiness – hold a special place in Japanese culture. From various religious and philosophical traditions, these deities embody prosperity, longevity and wisdom, and are invoked to attract good fortune.
Beyond their spiritual significance, they are an integral part of Japanese folklore and are associated with popular rituals such as the Shichifukujin Walk, a tradition that attracts many pilgrims and visitors every year. In this article, we will explore in detail the origin, characteristics and importance of Shichifukujin, as well as where to meet them during a trip to Japan.
Origin and Meaning of Shichifukujin
The history of Shichifukujin dates back centuries and reflects the hybridization of Shinto, Buddhist and Taoist beliefs. Although they are now venerated as a group, they come from various origins:
- ShintoismEbisu is the only purely Japanese divinity among the seven.
- BuddhismDaikokuten, Bishamonten and Benzaiten come from Indian and Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
- Chinese TaoismFukurokuju and Jurōjin are rooted in Taoist concepts.
- Chinese and Japanese Folk TraditionHotei is inspired by a Chinese Zen Buddhist monk of the 10th century.
Each divinity has a distinct meaning and attributes:
Ebisu: The God of Prosperity and Fishermen
- Originally from Japan, Ebisu is the protector of fishermen and merchants.
- It is often represented with a fishing rod and a fish (usually a tai, symbol of luck).
- His worship is particularly widespread in port and commercial cities.
Where to see him?
TheEbisu Shrinein Osaka hosts the festivalToka Ebisuin January, attracting thousands of traders to pray for prosperity.
Daikokuten (
- From Indian Buddhism, he is venerated as a god of fortune.
- It wears a magic mallet and often stands on rice bags, symbols of abundance.
- A home protector, he is often invoked to ensure domestic prosperity.
Where to see him?
TheKanda Myojin Templein Tokyo, popular with businessmen, houses a statue of Daikokuten where visitors come to rub his belly to attract wealth.
Bishamonten: The god of warriors and protector of the country
- Originally Buddhist, he is the guardian of Buddhist laws and a defender of the people.
- Represented in armor, holding a pagoda and a spear, it symbolizes strength and justice.
Where to see him?
TheShibamata Taishakuten Templein Tokyo has an imposing statue of Bishamonten.
Benzaiten: The goddess of arts, music and wisdom
- Inspired by the Hindu goddess Sarasvati, Benzaiten is associated with water and the arts.
- It is represented with a biwa (string instrument) and is venerated by artists.
Where to see her?
Theisland of Enoshima, near Kamakura, is an emblematic place dedicated to Benzaiten. His sanctuary attracts musicians and writers.
Fukurokuju (
- Coming from Taoism, he is known for his elongated forehead, symbol of wisdom.
- It is often represented with a turtle and a crane, two animals associated with longevity.
Where to see him?
TheToshogu TempleNikko, famous for its refined sculptures, houses a statue of Fukurokuju.
Jurōjin: God of longevity and health
- Similar to Fukurokuju, it is represented with a stick and a parchment containing the secrets of longevity.
- It is accompanied by a deer, symbol of longevity.
Where to see him?
TheChōmei-ji TempleShiga is a place of pilgrimage associated with longevity.
Hotei: The God of fortune and happiness
- Inspired by the Chinese Buddhist monk Budai, he is represented with a large belly and a large smile.
- It symbolizes joy and abundance.
Where to see him?
TheManpuku-ji TempleIn Uji (Kyoto), Chinese inspired, has a statue of Hotei.
The Shichifukujin Walk
Every year, Japanese people performShichifukujin walks, particularly between theNew Year and January 7, to receive the blessings of the seven gods.
Popular itineraries:
- Tokyo: Yanaka Circuit · Global Voices(in the traditional Yanaka district).
- Kamakura : The circuit of the seven temples, a picturesque route between mountains and historic temples.
- Kyoto: The Shichifukujin circuit of Arashiyamawith sanctuaries hidden in the bamboo forest.
Festivals and Celebrations
Shichifukujin are also celebrated at various festivals throughout Japan. One of the best known is the “Shichifukujin Meguri” held during the New Year. The faithful visit temples dedicated to the seven gods to pray and receive good fortune talismans.
Another notable festival is the “Toka Ebisu”Osaka, dedicated to Ebisu, which attracts thousands of visitors. This festival, which takes place in January, celebrates Ebisu as the god of fishermen and merchants. Participants purchase talisman-decorated bamboo branches to attract luck and prosperity in their business.
In Popular Art and Culture
ukiyo-e prints: Artists like Utagawa Kuniyoshi immortalized the Shichifukujin in brilliant engravings.
Cinema and mangas: They appear in many works, likeOne PieceorNaruto, where characters are inspired by them.
Figurines and talismans: Available in many temples, these objects are supposed to bring luck.
Shichifukujin and Daily Life in Japan
Even in modern Japan, Shichifukujin retain an important place in daily and spiritual life. They are venerated not only for their protective powers and their ability to attract good fortune, but also as symbols of universal human values and aspirations.
Many Japanese include prayers to the Shichifukujin in their personal religious rituals, whether it is to pray for health, prosperity or family happiness. Companies and traders also appeal to these deities, especially to Ebisu and Daikokuten, to bless their activities and ensure commercial success.
Where to see Shichifukujin in Japan
To discover the Shichifukujin during your trip, several temples and shrines throughout Japan are dedicated to them:
- TokyoThe Yanaka Shichifukujin circuit allows you to visit seven temples dedicated to these deities in a historical district. The sanctuaryAsakusa Jinjaalso houses statues of the seven gods.
- Kamakura: TheDaikoku-ji templeis dedicated to Daikokuten, while the island ofEnoshimavenerate Benzaiten in a sacred cave.
- Kyoto: TheKiyomizu-dera templeis an important place for Benzaiten, and several other temples of the city honor the Shichifukujin.
- Osaka: TheEbisu sanctuaryis famous for its annual festival attracting traders and entrepreneurs in search of prosperity.
- Shichifukujin walksThese religious tours, particularly popular in the New Year, exist in many cities and allow to visit seven temples in one day to attract good fortune.
Whether it is through these spiritual routes, festivals dedicated to them or their many artistic representations, the Shichifukujin are omnipresent in Japan and accessible to anyone who wants to learn more about this tradition.
Shichifukujin, or the Seven Divinities of Happiness, are emblematic figures of Japanese spirituality and culture. Their diversity and specific attributes make them universal protectors and guides for those who seek happiness, prosperity and longevity. When exploring Japan, take the time to discover these deities in dedicated temples and shrines, and participate in walks and festivals in their honour. Whether you are a devotee or simply curious about Japanese culture, the Shichifukujin offer aperspectiveenriching on the beliefs and values that shape life in Japan.
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