Awaji Island is known as the birthplace of Japan, where the country is said to have originated, born from a drop of the sea water dripping from the spear that the gods stirred with. The island is home to many deities, and remarkably, by traveling around Awaji Island, you can visit all the Shichifukujin (Seven Lucky Gods).
Table of Contents
1. Hachijoji Temple – Daikokuten
Daikokuten, the god of wealth and success, has roots in India. He is a deity known for holding a magic mallet and is depicted with a plump, serene face. Daikokuten is widely recognized as one of the Shichifukujin, and there are temples dedicated to him across Japan. One such temple is Hachijoji Temple, distinguished by its beautiful natural surroundings and its unique orange circular-shaped architecture.
Hachijoji Temple:
834 Sano, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
TEL: 0799-65-0026 (Shichifukujin Pilgrimage Office)
2. Houshouji Temple – Juroujin
Juroujin is a legendary figure from China, believed to be the incarnation of the Canopus star, known as the South Pole Star in Chinese mythology, which is considered lucky when visible on the horizon. Juroujin is particularly revered as the god of health and longevity.
Houshouji Temple
326 Sato, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
TEL: 0799-62-2905
3. Kakujuuji Temple – Bishamonten (Bishamon-sama)
Bishamonten is renowned as the “God of War” and is a brave and powerful deity. Bishamonten as one of the widely known Shichifukujin is worshipped in many temples and shrines across the country. He is considered a protector against evil, a bringer of fortune, and a provider of wealth. Kakujuuji Temple, though small, features a charming garden with a traditional atmosphere, making it a serene spot for visitors.
Kakujuuji Temple
343 Jindai Shake, Minami Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
TEL: 0799-42-0436
4. Manpukuji Temple – Ebisu
Ebisu is a Japanese god with deep ties to Awaji Island and is the only one of the Shichifukujin born in Japan. As the god of prosperity, Ebisu is often depicted with a fishing rod and a smile, symbolizing good fortune in business. This connection is why Manpukuji Temple is believed to be blessed with good fortune for maritime traffic, fisheries, water, and marine commerce, as well as prosperous business.
Manpukuji Temple
87-1 Kajiyadani, Kaju, Minami Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
TEL: 0799-54-0244
5. Gokokuji Temple – Hotei
Hotei is the only one among the Seven Lucky Gods who was once a real person. A monk from China, Hotei became a deity known for carrying a large sack as he traveled the country. His virtues eventually led him to the one being regarded as an incarnation of Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future, and he is considered a god who brings happiness. Gokokuji Temple, though small, is a lovely and well-kept location, featuring a tidy garden and a serene pond.
Gokokuji Temple
732 Kashuu Yahata, Minimi Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
TEL: 0799-54-0259
6. Chizenji Temple – Benzaiten
Benzaiten is a goddess whose origins trace back to Hinduism and the Brahmanic traditions in India. She was later incorporated into Buddhism, with the goddess Sarasvati, who personifies rivers, serving as her Indian counterpart. Benzaiten is worshipped as the goddess of arts and learning and is often depicted as a beautiful celestial maiden.
Chizenji Temple
436 Kusaka, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture
TEL: 0799-86-1472
7. Chorinji Temple – Fukurokuju
Chorinji Temple, one of the Shichifukujin Sacred Sites, enshrines Fukurokuju. The virtues of Fukurokuju include prosperity of descendants (Fuku), wealth (Roku), and health and longevity (Kotobuki). A statue of Fukurokuju made from Awaji Island’s specialty Ibushi tiles draws the attention of many worshippers. This temple is known for granting the fulfillment of great ambitions.
Chorinji Temple
Tsushi Manzai, Goshiki-cho, Sumoto City, Hyogo Prefecture
TEL: 0799-33-0121
Awaji Island, deeply connected with the gods, offers a unique opportunity to visit all Seven Lucky Gods by making a loop around the island. For those seeking a deep and rich cultural experience, this journey provides an adventurous addition to your trip to Japan. We invite you to explore Awaji Island, the mythical island of the gods.
To find out more about these Seven Lucky Gods and their relationships to Awaji Island, please click here.
