Shichifukujin
General七福神 ・ Reading: しちふくじん
Definition
Shichifukujin means the Seven Lucky Gods, a group honored through popular local pilgrimage circuits that may combine Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.
The Seven Lucky Gods
The familiar group is Ebisu, Daikokuten, Bishamonten, Benzaiten, Fukurokuju, Jurojin, and Hotei. Individual sites may explain names, images, and traditions in locally specific ways.
Local pilgrimage circuits
A Shichifukujin route links seven associated sites, often in one neighborhood or city. Some circuits operate year-round, while others emphasize the New Year and provide route boards or special seals only for a limited period.
Plan from current sources
Use the Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage guide and Goshuin Atlas route records, then confirm the current official map, dates, and receiving hours.
Common questions
- Who are the Seven Lucky Gods?
The usual group is Ebisu, Daikokuten, Bishamonten, Benzaiten, Fukurokuju, Jurojin, and Hotei.
- Is a Shichifukujin pilgrimage only for New Year?
Many routes have strong New Year traditions, but operating dates and year-round access differ by local circuit.
- Can one route include shrines and temples?
Yes. A Seven Lucky Gods circuit may cross institutional boundaries, so worship according to each site's local practice.
Related articles
- A History of Pilgrimage in Japan: From Sacred Mountains to Public RoutesHow ascetic landscapes, institutions, route books, Edo travel, transport, and local hospitality shaped Japanese pilgrimage.
- Goshuin: Collecting Japan's Temple and Shrine StampsWhat goshuin (御朱印) are, what they cost, how to ask for one politely, and where to start collecting Japan's hand-brushed temple and shrine stamps.
- Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimages in JapanChoose a local Shichifukujin pilgrimage, verify its season and stops, worship at mixed shrines and temples, and record route seals.