Japanese mythology includes a vast number of gods, goddesses, and spirits. Most of the stories concern the creation of the world, the foundation of the islands of Japan, and the activities of deities, humans, animals, spirits, and magical creatures...
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Bishamon, also called Bishamonten, in Japanese mythology, one of the Shichi-fuku-jin (“Seven Gods of Luck”). He is identified with the Buddhist guardian of the north, known as Kubera, or Vaiśravaṇa. Bishamon is always depicted as dressed in full armour, carrying a spear and a miniature pagoda. He is the protector of the righteous and is the Buddhist patron of warriors.
The temple city of Shigi near Ōji (west-central Honshu) is dedicated to him. It was founded, according to tradition, by Shōtoku Taishi (ad 573–621), who attributed a victory over an enemy of Buddhism to Bishamon’s assistance.
