Takasaki Daruma Doll - Red

Takasaki City in Gunma Prefecture is one of the main centres of daruma doll production in Japan, with a history dating from the 17th century. Daruma are papier-mâché dolls associated with the Buddhist figure Bodhidharma and are most commonly painted red, though can also be found in blue, white, green, or other shades. Daruma dolls are purchased with their white eyes unpainted. To make use of the doll the owner must paint one eye black and make a wish or envision an objective. Once the wish or goal has finally come to fruition, the second eye can be painted black. Takasaki daruma feature two auspicious animals, a crane and a turtle, often considered symbols of longevity owing to the Japanese proverb ‘tsuru sen-nen, kami man-nen‘, meaning ‘the crane lives 1,000 years, the turtle 10,000’. These meaningful dolls make an eye-catching decorative mark in any home or serve as ideal gifts for those aiming towards a goal or with a particular hope for the future.

Keep dry.

Individual pieces may vary in colour and size as each piece is handmade.

Size: S – 12cm, M – 17cm, L – 30cm

Hokkaidō

Hokkaidō is the northernmost of Japan's main islands, largely unspoiled, and the least densely populated. It is known for its national parks, numerous world-class ski resorts, delicious seafood and the distinct culture of the indigenous Ainu population. While the summers are comfortably mild, winters are cold. Sapporo, the largest city, is home to the annual Snow Festival.