description Fujin Overview
Fujin is a Japanese wind deity (kami) whose worship predates many later Buddhist influences, appearing in early Japanese mythological texts including the Kojiki. He is typically depicted as a fearsome figure holding a bag of winds, often paired with Raijin, the god of thunder and storms. Notable artistic representations include the Kamakura-period wooden sculptures at Sanjūsangen-dō in Kyoto and the Edo-period folding-screen paintings by Tawaraya Sōtatsu, now held by the Kyoto National Museum. He belongs to the broader category of Shinto weather deities associated with natural forces.
insights Ranking position
Fujin ranks #119 of 167 in the Deity ranking, behind Caishen, ahead of Manannán mac Lir.
help Fujin FAQ
What does the Japanese god Fujin carry on his back?
Fujin is typically depicted carrying a large bag of winds on his shoulders. He uses this magical bag to release or withhold the winds according to his will. This iconic imagery is central to his identity as the Shinto wind kami.
Who is Fujin usually paired with in Japanese art?
The wind deity Fujin is almost always paired with Raijin, the Japanese god of thunder and lightning. Together, they are among the oldest Shinto gods and frequently appear together in temple art. They represent the destructive and chaotic forces of nature.
Where is a famous historical depiction of Fujin and Raijin located?
One of the most famous artistic depictions of Fujin and Raijin is a historic folding screen painting at the Kennin-ji temple in Kyoto. The masterpiece is attributed to the early 17th-century artist Tawaraya Sotatsu. This specific artwork has defined the visual standard for the two deities for centuries.
Does Fujin appear in the Kojiki?
Yes, Fujin is an ancient Shinto kami whose worship predates many later Buddhist influences in Japan. His origins are recorded in early Japanese mythological texts, including the Kojiki. The Kojiki was compiled in the early 8th century to catalog the nation's foundational myths.
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