Muza-chan's Gate to Japan

Modernized Daruma Doll

Sat, September 9, 2017, by Muza-chan
The Daruma paper-mâché dolls invented by a priest of the Shorinzan Temple in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture, have a history of 200 years and are today very diversified. The dolls are representing Bodhidharma, the legendary founder of Zen Buddhism, and from the original red color many other versions can be found today.

It is usual in Japan to mix modern or pop culture elements with religious good luck charms, so you can find today Daruma dolls representing many other characters, but you can always find some new and surprising ideas. I found this interesting variant right at the original temple, a Daruma doll that still represents Bodhidharma, with the head painted in the traditional way, but... dressed like a salary man...

Shorinzan Daruma Temple, Takasaki
EXIF info:

Nikon D300
Lens: 8-16mm F/4.5-5.6G
Focal Length: 8mm
Aperture: F/7.1
Shutter Speed: 1/250s
ISO Sensitivity: ISO 250


Popular searches:

# Sakura, cherry blossoms

# Kyoto travel

# Japanese trains

# Travel tips for visiting Japan

# Japanese castles

# Night time photos from Japan

# Tokyo travel

# Traditional Japanese house


  •  Home
  •  Featured articles
  •  A Japan photo per day
  •  Japan travel
  •  Japanese customs & traditions
  •  Japanese food
  •  Japanese history
  •  Anime & otaku
  •  Did you know? Japan facts
  •  About Muza-chan