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Shōrinzan Daruma-ji

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
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