The Daruma doll is a famous Japanese figurine that is easily recognizable by its round shape, red color, and grumpy expression. These dolls range in size from a few centimeters to a meter in height and are considered good luck charms.
Marco Fasano, an Italian tour guide living in Japan, explains that unlike other good luck charms, the Daruma doll is not just about wishing for something and hoping it comes true.
The Daruma doll is typically round and painted in a vibrant red color, with wide-open eyes. Image: CNN
There is a specific ritual that owners must perform when purchasing one of these dolls. First, the owner must think of a goal or wish they have and then make a wish while painting one eye of the doll. They then purify the Daruma with burning incense and carry it with them. Once their wish comes true, they paint the other eye.
According to the representative of Katsuo-ji temple, also known as the Daruma temple, the temple has a long history of visits from emperors and generals seeking blessings. Today, the temple is considered a symbol of luck and success. Locals often visit to pray for good luck before exams or important contract signings. The temple started selling good luck Daruma dolls about 100 years ago.
“Every time you look at your Daruma, you should remember your wish and ask yourself what you will do today to make it come true,” says Marco. The fact that the doll is missing an eye is a stark reminder that one must work towards their goals.
Once their dream is realized and their goal is achieved, the owner can return the doll to the temple.
The Daruma doll is also a symbol of perseverance. The name “Daruma” comes from a famous Japanese monk from the 5th century who founded the Zen sect. Adherents believe that the monk meditated for so long that he lost his limbs, which is reflected in the round shape of the doll, with a heavier base than the top so that it always bounces back up when knocked down.
Tourists take photos with Daruma dolls in Japan. Image: CNN
Local legend has it that the monk cut off his eyelids to avoid falling asleep during meditation, explaining the wide-open eyes of the Daruma doll.
Katsuo-ji is not the only Daruma temple in Japan. In the ancient capital of Kyoto, Hōrin-ji temple houses nearly 8,000 of these dolls, most of which have been donated by devotees and well-wishers.
Today, Daruma dolls can be easily found all over Japan. However, 80% of the dolls are made in Takasaki, a small town in Gunma prefecture in the Kanto region. This area is also known for its 220-year-old tradition of handmade paper and hosts an annual “Daruma market.” The practice of placing Daruma dolls around temple grounds started about 100 years ago.
At Katsuo-ji temple, visitors can purchase two types of Daruma dolls: the traditional kachi-daruma, used for wishing and goal achievement, and the daruma-mikuji, a fortune-telling doll unique to the temple.
The fortune-telling Daruma-mikuji doll at Katsuo-ji temple. Image: Japonismo
Instead of painting the eyes, visitors ask a question before choosing a daruma-mijuki doll. Each doll contains a small scroll with advice to help guide the owner towards their goals.
In 2024, Japan welcomed a record number of international visitors, with 36.8 million arrivals, a 15% increase from 2019. Osaka was the second most popular prefecture for overnight stays, and Katsuo-ji temple attracts one million visitors annually, 70-80% of whom are international tourists.
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