Bishamonten (毘沙門天, 'Vaiśravaṇa' in Sanskrit) is one of the most popular Deva in Japan. Devas are former gods of Hindu mythology which became the guardian deities of Buddhism.
He has various characteristics and figures in different regions. In Japan, he is a warrior god wearing Chinese-style armor, holding a spear and a miniature pagoda (bishamonten's pagoda). In Chinese folklore, he has an umbrella and a silver mouse.
He is a member of the Four Heavenly Kings and the guardian god of the northern direction. Another name for him is 多聞天 (Tamonten, lit. 'Much hearing god'). In Japanese folklore, he is also a member of the Seven Lucky Gods.
