Good Luck Deities
Performers don lion costumes and mimic a lion’s movements in the traditional Shishi-mai (獅子舞) dance, a ritual believed to ward off evil and invite good fortune. During my visit to JP Tower in Tokyo, I watched as the lion "bit" the heads of patrons, staff, and visitors—a symbolic gesture meant to remove misfortune and bring blessings for the year ahead.
Alongside the lively dance, Daikokuten—one of Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods—also made an appearance. A beloved deity of prosperity and good fortune, Daikokuten is often depicted holding a magical mallet, the Uchide-no-Kozuchi (打ち出の小槌). According to legend, a single swing of this mallet can create wealth or even grant wishes, especially to children.
Shishimai Lion Taking Away Bad Luck
獅子舞が新年に幸運と繁栄をもたらす
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 3200 for 1/150 sec. at ƒ/2
Provia/Standard film simulation
Shishimai Lion and Daikoku Deity Bringing Good Luck
獅子舞と大黒天が新年に幸運と繁栄をもたらす
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 3200 for 1/150 sec. at ƒ/2
Provia/Standard film simulation
Daikokuten Bestowing Blessings Upon a Child with Magic Mallet
大黒天が打ち出の小槌で子どもに幸運と繁栄を授ける
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 3200 for 1/110 sec. at ƒ/2
Provia/Standard film simulation
