Daruma

The Fascinating World of Daruma Dolls: History, Traditions, and Symbolism

Daruma dolls are one of Japan's most iconic cultural symbols, widely recognized for their round shape, blank eyes, and vibrant colors. These traditional talismans are more than decorative items—they embody resilience, hope, and the pursuit of goals. In this blog, we’ll explore the history of daruma, their traditions, meanings, and the symbolism behind their vibrant colors.

A Brief History of Daruma Dolls

The origins of daruma dolls trace back to the 17th century in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan, where they were first crafted by local farmers. The design of the daruma is inspired by Bodhidharma, a 5th or 6th-century monk and the founder of Zen Buddhism.

Legend has it that Bodhidharma meditated facing a wall for nine years, losing the use of his arms and legs in the process. The daruma’s round shape represents Bodhidharma’s perseverance and his philosophy of overcoming challenges. This concept aligns with the Japanese proverb “Nanakorobi yaoki”—“Fall down seven times, get up eight”—a guiding principle for many who use daruma dolls to pursue their dreams and goals.

What Are Daruma Dolls For?

Daruma dolls are considered lucky charms and are often used for:

Setting Goals and Achieving Dreams: They are popular among students, entrepreneurs, and individuals with specific aspirations.

Resilience and Perseverance: The daruma’s design encourages people to persist despite setbacks.

Health and Safety: Some daruma are dedicated to health, family safety, or specific milestones like childbirth.

Seasonal Celebrations: Daruma are commonly purchased during New Year’s festivals and other important occasions.

How Do You Use a Daruma Doll?

Daruma dolls are unique in that they come with blank eyes. Here’s how you interact with your daruma:

Set Your Goal: When you acquire a daruma, decide on a specific goal or wish.

Paint the Right Eye: Paint one eye (traditionally the right eye, on the left side of the face) as you set your intention.

Work Towards Your Goal: Place the daruma somewhere visible to serve as a reminder of your commitment.

Paint the Left Eye: Once you achieve your goal, paint the other eye as a symbol of gratitude and fulfillment.

At the end of the year, it’s customary to return your daruma to a temple or shrine for a burning ceremony called Dondo Yaki, symbolizing the release of your wish and a fresh start.

The Symbolism of Daruma Colors

Daruma dolls come in various colors, each symbolizing different aspects of life:

Red: The traditional color of daruma, symbolizing good fortune, safety, and protection from misfortune.

Yellow: Associated with wealth, prosperity, and financial success.

Blue: Represents career advancement, success in life, and personal independence.

Green: Symbolizes health, physical improvement, and athletic achievement.

White: Reflects purity, focus, and success in academic or spiritual endeavors.

Gold: A luxurious color representing wealth, fame, and business success.

Pink or Peach: Symbolizes love, relationships, beauty, and rejuvenation

Buy Daruma at Wabisabi-store

Takasaki Daruma Lucky Daruma No. 2 (Height 12cm) - Red: Safety in the Home

Takasaki Daruma Lucky Daruma No. 2 (Height 12cm) - Gold: For Champions, Success, and Prosperity

Takasaki Daruma Lucky Daruma No. 2 (Height 12cm) - White: For Academic Success, Longevity, and Safe Childbirth

Daruma Dolls in Modern Times

While daruma dolls are deeply rooted in tradition, they continue to hold relevance in modern Japan. They are often sold at New Year’s markets and temples, where families purchase them to set intentions for the coming year. Businesses use daruma for growth and success, while athletes and students seek them as companions for their pursuits.

In Takasaki City, where the daruma originated, the Takasaki Daruma Market is held annually, attracting visitors from all over Japan. Here, people purchase handcrafted daruma dolls made by artisans who have preserved this craft for centuries.

Beyond their use as lucky charms, daruma dolls hold significant cultural and spiritual value. They serve as reminders to focus on our goals, persevere through challenges, and celebrate achievements with gratitude. Whether displayed in a home, a business, or a temple, daruma dolls embody the enduring human spirit and the belief that determination can overcome any obstacle.

Daruma dolls are bought during New Year’s to set fresh goals and welcome good fortune for the year ahead.

The blank eyes symbolize unrealized potential. Painting the eyes is part of a ritual to focus on your goal and recognize its fulfillment.

Start by painting one eye when you set a goal. Once the goal is achieved, paint the second eye to complete the ritual and show gratitude.

Traditionally, Daruma dolls are used for one year or one goal. After fulfilling their purpose, they are returned to a temple for ceremonial burning and replaced with a new one.

Takasaki Daruma Lucky Daruma No. 2 (Height 12cm) - Green: For Health, Exercise, and Sports Improvement

Takasaki Daruma Lucky Daruma No. 2 (Height 12cm) - Yellow: For Fortune, Wealth, and Prosperity

Takasaki Daruma Lucky Daruma No. 2 (Height 12cm) - Peach: For Love, Beauty, and Personal Growth

Fun Facts About Daruma Dolls

Daruma’s Eyebrows and Beard Have Hidden Meanings
The eyebrows are shaped like cranes, and the beard resembles a turtle—symbols of longevity and good fortune in Japanese culture. Together, they embody a wish for a long and prosperous life.

They Can "Stand Up" on Their Own
Daruma dolls are weighted at the bottom, allowing them to return to an upright position when knocked over. This represents resilience and the Japanese proverb "fall seven times, get up eight."

The Origin of Daruma's Round Shape
The design of Daruma dolls was inspired by Bodhidharma’s meditation posture, where he supposedly lost the use of his arms and legs after nine years of sitting in the same position.

Daruma Colors Weren’t Always Available
Traditionally, Daruma dolls were only red, believed to ward off smallpox. Over time, other colors were introduced to represent specific wishes, such as yellow for wealth and pink for love.

Daruma in Politics
Japanese politicians often use Daruma dolls during election campaigns. They paint one eye when the campaign starts and the second when they win, symbolizing their commitment and success.

Daruma Burning Ceremony – Dondo Yaki
At the end of the year, used Daruma dolls are burned in a ceremonial fire at temples. This signifies gratitude for the doll's role in goal-setting and makes way for new wishes.

Takasaki Daruma 2025 Zodiac Daruma Snake (Reiwa 7) – For Wealth, Prosperity, and Renewal

Daruma dolls are more than just ornaments; they are symbols of hope, resilience, and success. With a history rooted in Zen Buddhism and a tradition that spans centuries, these lucky charms continue to inspire people worldwide. Whether you’re setting a new goal, celebrating a milestone, or looking for a meaningful gift, a daruma doll is a timeless way to invite positivity and perseverance into your life.

Which daruma color resonates with your current goals? Start your new year with this iconic piece of Japanese culture.

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