- Kandata: A lazy and selfish robber who is sentenced to death by falling into the Great Hell and is given a second chance to earn redemption by completing a task for the Buddha.
- The Buddha: A revered religious figure in Buddhism, who is known for his wisdom and compassion. In this story, the Buddha appears to Kandata and offers him a chance to earn redemption.
- Shoka: A celestial being and the daughter of the Buddha, who accompanies Buddha to the Great Hell and guides Kandata on his task.
Other Characters:
- The Lord of Hell: The guardian of the Great Hell, who passes judgment on Kandata and assigns him his task.
- The Spider: A celestial creature who resides in the Great Hell, and is the embodiment of compassion. It offers to help Kandata by weaving a thread that will connect the Great Hell to paradise.