Shorinzan Daruma Temple (Gunma Prefecture) Complete Guide | Charm and Highlights of the Birthplace of Good Luck Daruma
Shorinzan Daruma Temple (少林山達磨寺), located in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture, is an Obaku Buddhist temple that attracts many visitors and tourists as the “birthplace of good luck daruma” known throughout Japan. Since its founding in the tenth year of Genroku (1697), it has a history of over 300 years and is cherished as a venerable temple that transmits the teachings of Daruma Taishi to the present day.
This article comprehensively introduces information you’ll want to know before visiting, including the history of Shorinzan Daruma Temple, highlights within the temple grounds, annual events, access methods, and surrounding tourist information.
History and Origins of Shorinzan Daruma Temple
Founding Circumstances and Connection with Tokugawa Mitsukuni
Shorinzan Daruma Temple was founded in the tenth year of Genroku (1697) by the ascetic Ichiryō Gyōja (一了行者). The temple’s founding is deeply connected with Tokugawa Mitsukuni (徳川光圀), known as the Mito Kōmon.
It is said to have begun when Ichiryō Gyōja built a hermitage to enshrine a Kannon statue. Later, with support from Tokugawa Mitsukuni, it was developed into a full temple. Mitsukuni had deep faith in the Obaku school and greatly contributed to the development of Shorinzan Daruma Temple, which is why historic sites related to Mitsukuni remain in the temple grounds today.
The Obaku School
The Obaku school (黄檗宗) is a branch of Zen Buddhism that was transmitted from China in the early Edo period. It is one of the three major schools of Zen Buddhism in Japan, alongside the Rinzai and Sōtō schools, and is characterized by Ming-dynasty-style architecture and rituals, and Chinese-style vegetarian cuisine called “putai ryōri.”
Shorinzan Daruma Temple has served as an important base of the Obaku school in the Kanto region, continuing to transmit Zen teachings and the spirit of Daruma Taishi to modern times.
History as the Birthplace of Good Luck Daruma
Shorinzan Daruma Temple is called the “birthplace of good luck daruma” because of the “daruma image” conceived by the ninth chief priest, Tōgaku Shōnin (東嶽和尚), to save farmers suffering from famine.
During the Tenmei great famine (1782-1788), Tōgaku Shōnin encouraged farmers to produce papier-mâché figurines modeled on the seated meditation posture of Daruma Taishi as a side business. This figurine became famous as a lucky charm symbolizing “seven times down, eight times up,” and became the prototype of today’s Takasaki daruma.
It is also recorded in the Jōmō Karuta as “Good luck daruma from Shorinzan” on the “e” (え) card, and is widely known as a representative culture of Gunma Prefecture.
Highlights Within the Temple Grounds
Main Hall
The main hall of Shorinzan Daruma Temple is a magnificent structure incorporating architectural styles unique to the Obaku school with Chinese influences. A Daruma Taishi statue is enshrined as the principal deity, and many visitors come to offer prayers.
In the main hall, prayers for directional blessing and purification are performed, and particularly during New Year and other milestone periods, it is crowded with believers. Fine details of the building are decorated with ornaments unique to the Obaku school, allowing visitors to appreciate the architectural beauty.
Daruma Hall (Renovated 2024)
The Daruma Hall, renovated in 2024, has been reborn as a new center of worship at Shorinzan Daruma Temple. Various daruma images collected from ancient times to the present and from around the world are displayed within the hall, and their number is impressive.
Not only traditional daruma from throughout Japan are displayed, but also uniquely individual daruma donated from countries around the world, allowing visitors to experience the diversity of daruma culture. The exhibition space features modern design and provides a comfortable environment for leisurely appreciation.
Operating hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the temple office, talisman counter, and Daruma Hall all open during the same hours.
Brunelleschi Taut’s Senshin-tei
Within the temple grounds of Shorinzan Daruma Temple, “Senshin-tei” (洗心亭), the residence of the world-renowned German architect Bruno Taut (1880-1938), is preserved.
Taut fled Nazi persecution and came to Japan in 1933. He stayed at Shorinzan Daruma Temple from 1934 to 1936 for approximately two years. During this period, Taut devoted himself to research on Japanese architecture and crafts, and wrote works such as “Nippon no Bi no Sai-Hakken” (Rediscovery of Japanese Beauty).
Senshin-tei is the place where Taut actually lived and conducted his creative work, and it retains the atmosphere of that time. The building’s interior displays materials and photographs related to Taut, allowing visitors to feel the history of international cultural exchange.
It is also the setting for “The German at Daruma Temple,” a script adapted by young director Akira Kurosawa during his assistant director days, making it an interesting spot for film enthusiasts as well.
Daruma Statues and Photo Spots Within the Temple Grounds
Daruma images of various sizes are placed throughout the temple grounds, and visitors can enjoy photography while strolling. Particularly large daruma statues are popular as Instagram-worthy photo spots.
The collaboration of seasonal nature with daruma statues presents different expressions depending on the time of visit. You can enjoy different beauty each season—cherry blossoms in spring, greenery in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snow-covered landscapes in winter.
Shijin no Mori (Perpetual Care Grave/Tree Burial)
Shorinzan Daruma Temple has a perpetual care grave and tree burial area called “Shijin no Mori” (四神乃杜). Shijin refers to the four divine beasts that protect the four cardinal directions: the azure dragon of the east, the white tiger of the west, the vermilion bird of the south, and the black tortoise of the north.
Named in harmony with Daruma Temple, a prayer temple for directional blessing, the four divine beasts are incorporated throughout the grave area. It provides a modern form of Buddhist memorial service in a quiet environment surrounded by nature.
Annual Events and Activities
Shorinzan Shichikusa Grand Festival Daruma Fair (January 6-7)
The greatest annual event at Shorinzan Daruma Temple is the “Shorinzan Shichikusa Grand Festival Daruma Fair” held every year from January 6 to 7. This festival is counted as one of the three major daruma fairs in the Kanto region and attracts hundreds of thousands of worshippers annually.
Characteristics of the Daruma Fair
Approximately 200 daruma shops set up booths within the temple grounds, selling daruma of all sizes. The grounds are filled with energy as people seek new daruma with hopes for the new year.
In addition to the daruma shops in front of the main hall, about 30 food trucks gather behind the main hall, with dining spaces provided. Visitors can enjoy a diverse selection of food, from local specialties to cuisine from throughout Japan.
Star Festival Noh Performance
In recent years, “Star Festival Noh” performances have also been held during the daruma fair period, offering opportunities to appreciate traditional performing arts. Participation is by application, and those wishing to participate must download and submit an application form from the official website in advance.
Other Annual Events
Shorinzan Daruma Temple holds various annual events besides the Shichikusa Grand Festival.
- New Year Prayer Ceremony: Prayers for good health throughout the year
- Setsubun Festival: Traditional bean-throwing ceremony
- Spring and Autumn Equinox Services: Memorial services for ancestors
- Daruma Memorial Service: Commemorative service on the anniversary of Daruma Taishi’s death
These events attract not only local believers but also visitors from distant places.
Experience Programs
Daruma Painting Experience
Shorinzan Daruma Temple offers a popular “daruma painting experience” where visitors can create their own original good luck daruma.
Reception Hours: 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM (closes at 4:00 PM)
Visitors can paint eyes, whiskers, wishes, and other details on a white daruma. This experience is enjoyable for both children and adults and is perfect for creating travel memories. The completed daruma can be taken home and displayed to make wishes.
No reservation is required to participate, though groups should contact the temple in advance for a smooth experience.
Seated Meditation and Sutra Copying Experiences
Shorinzan Daruma Temple, as a Zen temple, also offers seated meditation and sutra copying experiences (availability varies by season, so advance confirmation is necessary). Spending time in quiet meditation in the main hall is a precious experience away from daily hustle and bustle.
Access Information
Basic Information
Address: 296 Hanatakacho, Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture
Phone: 027-322-8800
Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (temple office, talisman counter, Daruma Hall)
Closed: None (open year-round)
Admission: Free (Daruma Hall by donation)
Access by Train
From JR Gunma Hachiman Station: About 20 minutes on foot, about 5 minutes by taxi
JR Gunma Hachiman Station on the Takasaki Line is the nearest station. If walking, head northwest from the station and pass through residential areas. Directional signs are posted along the way, so you’re unlikely to get lost.
If using a taxi from the station, arrival takes about 5 minutes, with a fare of approximately 1,000 yen.
Access by Car
From Kanetsutsu Expressway Takasaki IC: About 30 minutes
From Joshinetsu Expressway Fujioka IC: About 40 minutes
From Takasaki city center, the typical route is via National Route 17 and then heading north on prefectural roads. Entering “Shorinzan Daruma Temple” or the phone number into a GPS navigation system allows for smooth arrival.
Parking Information
The temple grounds have a free parking lot with capacity for approximately 300 regular vehicles. However, during the Shichikusa Grand Festival Daruma Fair period, it becomes very congested and temporary parking is provided. During this season, consider using public transportation.
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Takasaki Kannon (Jigyoen)
Located about 15 minutes by car from Shorinzan Daruma Temple, Takasaki Kannon is a tourist attraction known for its giant white-robed Kannon statue standing 41.8 meters tall. The interior of the Kannon statue is nine stories, and the observation deck offers panoramic views of Takasaki city.
Takasaki Museum of Art
An art museum featuring primarily contemporary art, located about 20 minutes by car from Shorinzan Daruma Temple. With abundant special exhibitions, visitors can enjoy appreciating art.
Haruna Shrine and Lake Haruna
In the Haruna Mountain area outside Takasaki city are Haruna Shrine, popular as a power spot, and Lake Haruna, where visitors can enjoy nature in all seasons. About 40 minutes by car from Shorinzan Daruma Temple, it’s ideal as a driving course.
Gunma Prefectural History Museum
A museum where visitors can learn about Gunma’s history and culture, with abundant materials from the Kofun period to modern times. About 25 minutes by car from Shorinzan Daruma Temple.
Hotel Information for Takasaki and Gunma Area
Hotels Around Takasaki Station
For accommodation when visiting Shorinzan Daruma Temple, hotels around JR Takasaki Station are convenient. The area around the station has numerous lodging facilities from business hotels to city hotels, making it an ideal base for sightseeing.
- Hotels directly connected to Takasaki Station: Excellent access, convenient for shinkansen users
- Business hotels within walking distance of the station: Comfortable stays at reasonable prices
- Hotels with hot springs: Facilities to ease the fatigue of travel
Hot Spring Destinations in Gunma Prefecture
Gunma Prefecture is also known as a hot spring country, and travel plans combining Shorinzan Daruma Temple sightseeing with hot springs are popular.
- Ikaho Hot Spring: Historic hot spring destination famous for its stone steps (about 50 minutes by car)
- Kusatsu Hot Spring: One of Japan’s three most famous hot springs (about 1 hour 30 minutes by car)
- Shima Hot Spring: Hidden hot spring nestled in quiet mountains (about 1 hour 20 minutes by car)
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting Shorinzan Daruma Temple
Worship Manners
While Shorinzan Daruma Temple is also a tourist destination, it is first and foremost a place of faith. Please observe the following manners when visiting.
- Photography in the Main Hall: Keep photography restrained
- Quiet Demeanor: Avoid loud conversations
- Smoking: Strictly prohibited except in designated areas
- Garbage: Should be taken with you
Dress Code
There are no specific dress code requirements, but attire befitting a temple is desirable. Since parts of the temple grounds are unpaved, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Notes for the Daruma Fair Period
The Shichikusa Grand Festival Daruma Fair period is extremely crowded. Please note the following points.
- Arrive Early: Morning hours are recommended
- Cold Weather Preparation: January in Gunma is cold, so bring adequate winter clothing
- Valuables Management: Be especially careful during crowded times
- Small Children: Be careful of getting lost and hold hands while moving about
Daruma Purchase and Care
How to Choose Daruma
Shorinzan Daruma Temple sells daruma of various sizes. Generally, it is said to choose the size according to the magnitude of one’s wishes.
- Small Daruma: Personal wishes
- Medium-sized Daruma: Family wishes
- Large Daruma: Wishes for business prosperity and other significant desires
How to Paint the Eyes
The daruma purchased initially comes with both eyes blank. When making a wish, it is customary to first paint the left eye (right side from the viewer’s perspective) with ink and, once the wish is fulfilled, paint the right eye.
Memorial Service for Old Daruma
Daruma that have had their wishes fulfilled or that have watched over the family for a year can be brought to Shorinzan Daruma Temple for memorial service. Particularly during the Shichikusa Grand Festival period, spaces are designated for the deposit of old daruma.
Why It’s Popular with Foreign Tourists
In recent years, Shorinzan Daruma Temple has gained high popularity among foreign tourists. This can be attributed to the following reasons.
Symbol of Japanese Culture
Daruma is known worldwide as a symbol of Japanese culture, and Shorinzan Daruma Temple, as its birthplace, is gaining attention as a place where Japanese culture can be deeply understood.
International Connections through Bruno Taut
The history of German architect Bruno Taut’s stay is recognized as a symbol of international cultural exchange, particularly capturing the interest of visitors from Europe.
Wealth of Experience-Based Content
Experience programs like daruma painting are enjoyable beyond language barriers, making them popular with foreign tourists.
Summary: The Charm of Shorinzan Daruma Temple
Shorinzan Daruma Temple, as an Obaku Buddhist temple with over 300 years of history, continues to protect its unique culture as the birthplace of good luck daruma. It is rich in historic and cultural highlights, including its connection with Tokugawa Mitsukuni, the stay of Bruno Taut, and the Shichikusa Grand Festival Daruma Fair.
The Daruma Hall, renovated in 2024, and various other facilities within the temple grounds are modernly designed to be familiar and accessible to contemporary visitors, holding high value not only as a place of faith but also as a tourist destination.
With good access from Takasaki city center and abundant surrounding tourist attractions such as Takasaki Kannon and Haruna Shrine, why not visit Shorinzan Daruma Temple when visiting Gunma Prefecture to experience the culture of good luck daruma and the spirit of Zen?
For New Year’s wishes, cultural experiences, or simply to spend quiet time—Shorinzan Daruma Temple is a temple with enough depth to respond to the various purposes of each visitor.
