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The Seven Gods of Fortune who arrive on the treasure ship are deities that bring different types of luck—wealth, longevity, wisdom, protection from misfortune, and more. Their origins, a blend of Shinto, Hinduism, Taoism, and Buddhism, exemplify Japan's unique approach to faith.
The Seven Gods of Fortune came to be thought of as a unified group during the Muromachi period (1336–1573).
They are said to derive their name from a Buddhist scripture passage that reads "Seven Calamities Perish, Seven Blessings Are Born"—meaning that seven disasters disappear and seven fortunes emerge.
During the Edo period, they became a popular subject among ordinary people, and a tradition arose that they would visit people's homes aboard a treasure ship on New Year's Eve.
What makes this group particularly interesting is the diversity of its members. Only Ebisu is a deity from Japan's native Shinto tradition, while Daikokuten, Bishamonten, and Benzaiten are Hindu gods from India that came to Japan through China. Fukurokuju, Jurojin, and Hotei have their roots in Chinese Daoism.
At Nanzo-in Temple, all seven of these deities are enshrined as stone statues within a small tunnel-shaped hall called the "Seven Gods of Fortune Passage," standing in a row, each holding symbolic objects representing the blessings they bestow.
Flowers are offered before them, and above their heads hangs a decorative rake—an auspicious ornament believed to "rake together" good fortune.
Deities & Spirits
① Ebisu
An ancient Japanese deity of the sea and commerce. Characterized by a cheerful smile, holding a fishing rod and a sea bream.
② Daikoku-ten
A deity who brings food and abundance. Standing upon rice bales and holding a magical mallet.
③ Bishamonten
A warrior god who guards the northern direction, clad in armor. Holding a spear and a treasure pagoda in his hands.
④ Benzaiten
The only female deity among the Seven Lucky Gods. She presides over music, eloquence, and wisdom, and is known for playing the biwa lute.
⑤ Fukurokuju
A Daoist immortal who grants longevity. Characterized by an elongated head.
⑥ Jurojin
A deity of longevity who forms a pair with Fukurokuju. Carrying a staff and accompanied by a deer.
⑦ Hotei
A deity who always wears a smile, carrying a large sack. Said to bring wealth and fortune, and is believed to have been based on an actual Zen Buddhist monk.
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