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:

Yesterday’s Japan Photo: Mizukake Fudo of Ryusen-ji