When is the best time to visit Shorinzan Darumaji Temple?

The Daruma Ichi festival on January 6-7 is the major annual event, drawing large crowds for ceremonial burning of old daruma and purchasing new ones. Weekdays during spring or autumn offer fewer visitors and opportunities to observe artisans working.

Can I watch daruma dolls being made at the temple?

Artisans demonstrate the hand-painting process on-site. Visitors can observe the application of red color and facial features. Some workshops offer hands-on painting experiences, though availability varies.

How much do daruma dolls cost at Shorinzan Darumaji Temple?

Small daruma cost 500 to 1,500 yen. Medium sizes range from 2,000 to 5,000 yen. Large ceremonial versions start at 10,000 yen and increase based on size.

Is Shorinzan Darumaji Temple accessible for non-Japanese speakers?

English signage is limited. The daruma-making process and temple rituals are visually clear and can be understood through observation. Basic transactions at the temple shop are manageable without Japanese language skills.

Shorinzan Darumaji Temple

4.2 (3467)Buddhist TempleTourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipPoint Of InterestAssociation Or OrganizationEstablishment

Shorinzan Darumaji Temple stands as one of Japan's most distinctive religious sites, renowned as the birthplace of the iconic daruma doll. Located in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture, the temple was established in 1697 by a Chinese Zen priest named Ichiryo Ichinyo. The temple belongs to the Obaku school of Zen Buddhism and has maintained its spiritual significance for over three centuries while becoming deeply intertwined with Japanese folk culture.

The temple's primary claim to fame lies in its connection to the daruma doll, a round, hollow paper-mache figure modeled after Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism. These red dolls with blank eyes serve as talismans for goal-setting and good fortune throughout Japan. Visitors witness the traditional craft of daruma-making that has been perfected here over generations, with the temple producing approximately 900,000 daruma dolls annually. The main hall enshrines a statue of Bodhidharma, and the grounds feature numerous daruma representations, creating an atmosphere unique among Japanese temples.

The experience centers around observing artisans hand-paint daruma dolls using traditional methods and purchasing these symbolic figures as souvenirs or spiritual tokens. The temple hosts the Daruma Ichi festival on January 6-7 each year, drawing massive crowds who come to replace old daruma with new ones and have them blessed by priests. Throughout the year, visitors explore the temple grounds, participate in Zen meditation sessions when available, and enjoy panoramic views of Takasaki city from the hillside location. A small museum on site displays historical daruma dolls and explains the evolution of this craft.

Shorinzan Darumaji Temple is accessible from Takasaki Station on the JR lines. From the station, visitors can take a local bus bound for Darumaji, which takes approximately 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, a taxi ride covers the distance in roughly 15 minutes. Limited parking is available for those traveling by car. The temple itself has no admission fee for general entry to the grounds and main worship areas, though special exhibitions or experiences may require separate payment.

What other travelers are saying about Shorinzan Darumaji Temple

So pleased i stopped in takasaki for a few hours to see this to see this - original home of Daruma. Quiet not busy. Took the bus from the train station (good luggage storage at train station) that stops right outside. There are eye painting classes in lower area for a cost - but i feel better quality daruma at temple shop - which are certified as blessed by a monk. Very peaceful and pretty with great history.

AMR

Dec 12, 2025

What a gorgeous and spiritually significant place. Make sure to read up on Daruma before coming and you’ll have even more appreciation. FYI sometimes the lower lots are blocked off by chains so you may need to drive further up the mountain for parking.

Good to get your wishes with the original Daruma. Nice view from this place. You can walk around there with good weather (very cold ^_^) but it’s clear. :-)

Visited Shorinzan Darumaji Temple today and it was such a meaningful experience. I had the chance to paint my own Daruma doll — the staff explained how to do it very clearly, which made it easy and fun. There’s also a small museum where you can see many Daruma dolls and learn about their history. What made the visit extra special was seeing the monks pray for everyone’s wishes — it felt very peaceful and heartwarming. A perfect place for reflection and a unique cultural experience. Highly recommend if you’re in the area!

15 min. Taxi from Takasaki station. Very nice temple with Daruma figures (amulets), which can be prayed upon (Tamashii). It has a More 200+ stairway to main Shrine. There is also a small museum (free entrance).