Daruma Dolls in Japanese Culture: Meaning, Events, Temples

Daruma Dolls in Japanese Culture

Daruma Daishi, the founder of Zen Buddhism, is a figure of immense reverence, often portrayed alongside the Buddha in temple scrolls. His distinctive, limbless shape stems from the legend that his arms and legs atrophied after nine years of unbroken zazen meditation.

These historical depictions—defined by a thick mustache, beard, and piercing eyes beneath heavy brows—cemented Daruma’s reputation as a symbol of fierce determination and spiritual power.

Inspired by the seated meditation posture of the legendary monk, the rounded Daruma doll is one of Japan's most iconic lucky charms.

Read on to discover the history of these auspicious figures, the best temples to visit, and where to find local fairs to purchase your own.

• Table of Contents
• The Meaning Behind Daruma Dolls
• Japan's Daruma Culture: Have Your Wish Granted
• Where to Find Daruma in Japan: 3 Famous Temples
• Daruma Fairs near Tokyo: January - March

The Meaning Behind Daruma Dolls

Daruma figures today are painted red to protect against evil spirits. According to ancient Japanese belief, the color red (especially a vibrant red) was believed to be good luck against evil. This is why torii gates at shrines are painted vermillion, and why during auspicious events and celebrations, people often wear red clothing.

Other than being a talisman against evil spirits, daruma is believed to aid in the granting of wishes. The effect takes about one year.

When first purchased, both of the daruma statue's eyes are white. While concentrating on your wish, you paint a pupil on the daruma's left eye in black ink. And, once your wish has been granted, you fill in the pupil of the right eye to indicate that enlightenment has been reached.

In Japan, there are daruma for prayers for familial health, prosperity in business, successfully passing exams, and more. And now there are even daruma painted in different colors that people purchase to use in their interior decorating instead.

For many who paint the eye in place and have their wish come true, they purchase a larger daruma figure the next year. By doing so, it is believed that an even bigger wish that they have will come true.

Japan's Daruma Culture: Have Your Wish Granted

In Japan, it is common to celebrate a success—such as passing an exam or a business breakthrough—with a Daruma eye-painting ceremony. These events are often shared with friends and family to spread the joy of good fortune.

When a wish is granted and the Daruma’s second eye is filled in (symbolizing its "enlightenment"), the happiness extends beyond the individual to everyone involved. This reflects the belief that a Daruma’s blessing is meant to be shared.

Particularly large Daruma dolls often make the news due to their impressive scale; in some cases, the honor of painting the eye on such a massive figure is granted to a selected representative or official.

Today, these eye-painting ceremonies have evolved into grand public spectacles. When a selected representative performs the ritual on a large scale, the event is often live-streamed online, transforming a once-private tradition into a performance full of pomp and circumstance.

While Daruma dolls have many uses, they ultimately embody the Japanese spirit of perseverance. The practice of setting a yearly goal and working steadfastly toward it perfectly aligns with the symbolism of the Daruma.

This commitment to steady advancement has made the Daruma a beloved talisman for anyone striving to turn their ambitions into reality.

Where to Find Daruma in Japan: 3 Famous Temples

While Daruma dolls are sold across Japan, the most authentic way to experience their history is by visiting temples dedicated to Daruma Daishi. Here are three of the most famous locations to discover these iconic symbols of luck.

1. Kawasaki Daishi near Tokyo

One of the most famous temples for daruma is Heikenji Temple found in Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture. The temple is popularly known as Kawasaki Daishi.

Kawasaki Daishi is famous for its ability to ward off evil and disasters and is known through the expression "yakuyoke no Odaishi-sama" (divine Daishi that protects from evil). For that reason, there are many shops lining the roads leading to the temple that sell daruma statues.

Every year on January 28, the Aso Fudoin Temple Hall at Kawasaki Daishi hosts the Shichikusa Taisai Daruma Fair. It is a perfect opportunity for visitors to purchase new Daruma dolls to bring good fortune in the year ahead.

2. Shorinzan Darumaji Temple in Takasaki

Takasaki City in Gunma Prefecture is Japan’s most famous center for Daruma production. It is home to Shorinzandaruma-ji Temple, the birthplace of the Takasaki Daruma, where the teachings of Daruma Daishi have been preserved for generations.

Throughout the year, a steady stream of visitors comes to the main hall to dedicate their dolls, creating an impressive, ever-growing display. The temple also serves as a unique gallery, showcasing diverse Daruma styles from across all of Japan.

Takasaki is home to artisanal studios specializing in Daruma dolls such as Imai Daruma Shop NAYA. These facilities offer Daruma painting activities and unique souvenirs.

3. Katsuoji Temple in Osaka

With a legacy spanning 1,300 years, Katsuoji Temple in Minoo, near Osaka, is celebrated as the "Temple of Winning Luck."

Perched at an elevation of 255 meters and surrounded by lush greenery, the temple offers a breathtaking natural setting.

The grounds are famous for the "Victory Daruma" donation shelves, where thousands of dolls in various sizes create a striking visual display.

For those visiting during the New Year, trying your luck with a miniature Daruma omikuji (fortune slip) is a popular and charming tradition.

Daruma Fairs near Tokyo: January - March

A major event dedicated to Daruma dolls in Tokyo is the Ome Daruma Market, held annually on January 12 in Ome City.

The historic Old Ome Kaido road comes alive with 220 stalls, including dozens of Daruma specialists. A highlight of this market is the ritual fire ceremony at Sumiyoshi Shrine, where old dolls are burned to mark the completion of their purpose.

The Shichikusa Taisai Daruma Fair held on January 28 at Kawasaki Daishi is also a major event dedicated to these auspicious symbols.

Jindaiji Temple in Tokyo's Chofu City is also a great location to find Daruma. Every March 3 and 4, the temple hosts the grand Yakuyokeganzai Taisai Festival, home to one of Japan’s most famous Daruma markets. During this event, over 300 stalls fill the temple grounds, offering Daruma dolls in every imaginable size.

These festivals are popular with international visitors for their vibrant atmosphere and the rare sight of thousands of dolls in one place.

All pictures from PIXTA