296 Hanadakamachi, Takasaki, Gunma 370-0868, Japan
Built in 1697, Shōrinzan Daruma-ji is a Zen temple in Takasaki. Although there’s plenty of ancient temples scattered across Honshu, this one is special – it’s the birthplace of the fascinating daruma doll. Bulbous, red-painted and sour-faced, these good luck charms are said to represent Bodhidharma, one of Zen Buddhism’s progenitors. The temple sells a huge variety of daruma, in all shapes and sizes, including daruma-themed ramen, which make a great souvenir to take home to the family. Finding the temple, on foot or via car, isn’t hard – just follow the massive daruma signs that line the road!
Telephone | +81 27-322-8800 |
Website | Visit Site |