First created 200 years ago at the Shorinzan Daruma Temple in Takasaki, Gunma, the Daruma dolls are now popular all over Japan, being one of the most important New Year lucky charms.

The Daruma dolls are linked with a unique tradition, they are made to help achieving just one goal, to fulfill a single desire. The dolls are sold without the eyes drawn, and the buyer must “make a wish” and draw one of the doll’s eyes. The second eye is drawn only when the desire was fulfilled, and then the doll is to be brought back to the temple…

Daruma Dolls, Shorinzan Daruma Temple, Takasaki

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