Historical term for a large paper lantern used in bathhouses, yose theatres, izakaya, and similar traditional establishments. Related to 八間 (hachiken), a large lantern.
See also: 八間
In Edo-period bathhouses, large hanging paper lanterns called happō andon were suspended.
八間 is a large lantern, often synonymous with 八方行灯, but 八方行灯 specifically refers to the hanging paper lantern variety.
Compound of 八方 (happō, 'eight directions') and 行灯 (andon, 'paper lantern'). The exact derivation is uncertain; the name may refer to the lantern's shape or its ability to illuminate all around.