IMAI DARUMA – The Spirit of Perseverance

The Meaning of Daruma
The Daruma doll is one of Japan’s most beloved symbols of good luck, fortune, and perseverance. Inspired by the Buddhist monk Bodhidharma, founder of Zen Buddhism, Daruma embodies the Japanese proverb “fall down seven times, get up eight” (七転八起). It represents resilience, hope, and the determination to rise again no matter how many setbacks occur.

Crafted in Takasaki, the Home of Daruma
More than 80% of Japan’s Daruma are made in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture, the country’s No.1 producer of these iconic charms. Among the region’s most respected artisans is Imai Daruma Naya, a workshop with over 90 years of history. Now in its third generation, master craftsman Hirohisa Imai continues the family legacy—blending traditional methods with fresh, contemporary design. Each Daruma is carefully handcrafted, ensuring that no two are ever exactly alike.

Tradition and Ritual
Daruma is more than just decoration—it carries a ritual of intention and fulfillment. Traditionally, one eye is painted when making a wish, while the second is filled in once the wish is achieved, or after one year has passed. Placed high within the home, the Daruma watches over families, quietly guiding them toward their goals.

Symbolism in Design
Every element of Daruma carries meaning. The six lines on its front symbolize the passage of time, from past to future, while the words of perseverance—“fall down 7 times, get up 8”—are written as a mathematical formula on either side. Its rounded, weighted form ensures it always returns upright, embodying the unyielding spirit it represents.

An Earth-Friendly Tradition
Each Daruma from Imai Daruma Naya is made with recycled paper and coated with gofun, a white powder derived from baked and ground shells. This makes them not only spiritually meaningful but also environmentally conscious, carrying forward a sustainable approach to a craft that has been cherished for centuries.