How much do you know about daruma? Historically, there was the man called Daruma-daishi (aka Bhodhidharma), a Buddhist monk who is credited with spreading the practice of Zen Buddhism into China. Then, there are the daruma dolls, paper mache prayer tokens made and distributed throughout Japan for the sake of health, longevity, and success. These limbless dolls have an approximate 400-year history of bringing encouragement and good fortune to the people of Japan. However, in recent years the production and subsequent purchase of daruma has fallen. People are losing track of their daruma dolls, forgetting the purpose for which they serve, or at a loss of where to buy them in the first place.
Now, in an effort to bring back appreciation for the humble daruma, the Kagoyaka company in Yamanashi Prefecture is modernizing the traditional doll into something they call the Koshu~Color Daruma.



Brand-new Pokémon park opens in Japan with larger-than-life-size Lapras【Photos】
Pokémon doughnuts appear at Mister Donut, with all-new Pikachu and Foongus
All-you-can-eat lunch buffet for just 850 yen right next to Shinjuku Station
Never forget that Mister Donut’s super-simple ramen is actually very hard to beat
Saving book worms from book germs: Libraries install Bacteria Elimination Boxes
Famous Japanese painter’s centuries-old cat artwork proves Japan has always loved felines
Daiso unveils new official mascot, Daizo the elephant
New Japanese-made Godzilla movie announced, looks to be first direct sequel since 1999
Weekly Shonen Jump teams up with Georgia to bring us limited-edition manga-printed coffee cans
Dress like your favourite Lupin III character with suits and kimono designed by Japanese tailors
Unique inclined elevator in Japan leads to a town that inspired Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away
Naturally brown-haired Osaka student sues government for forcing her to dye her hair black
Tokyo hotel lets you make your stay a Sanrio one with special My Melody and Kuromi rooms【Pics】
Step into Japanese culture with Converse’s new Japan-exclusive shoes featuring gods, sushi style
New Kyoto experience package lets you film epic samurai battles with your friends
Sanrio and Sonic the Hedgehog characters become fast friends with new plushie collection
Real takoyaki is almost impossible to find in Tokyo, but this place has it, our hardliner says
Top Japanese baby names for 2025 feature flowers, colors, and a first-time-ever favorite for girls
Studio Ghibli releases new Ursula’s blanket from Kiki’s Delivery Service
Studio Ghibli releases new “komorebi” plush toys to brighten your days
JR Hokkaido train driver in trouble for reading book about trains on stopped train
Studio Ghibli releases new anime tea and mugs in Japan
Tokyo bento boxed lunch shop charges different prices depending on how heavy your laptop is
Studio Ghibli anime stoles are here to keep you warm with a range of famous characters
Japanese hotel chain’s new service: A bed and pajamas for otaku travelers’ plushies
Japan has vending machines that put protective film on your phone for you — Here’s how to use them
Totoro fountain figurine recreates the sights and sounds of one of anime’s most memorable scenes
Starbucks Japan unveils new Christmas Frappuccino and holiday drinks for 2025
Survey asks foreign tourists what bothered them in Japan, more than half gave same answer
Possessing Harry Potter’s Sword of Godric Gryffindor is now illegal in Japan
Japan’s deadliest food claims more victims, but why do people keep eating it for New Year’s?
We deeply regret going into this tunnel on our walk in the mountains of Japan
Studio Ghibli releases Kodama forest spirits from Princess Mononoke to light up your home
Major Japanese hotel chain says reservations via overseas booking sites may not be valid
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】
The top 10 annoying foreign tourist behaviors on trains, as chosen by Japanese people【Survey】
No more using real katana for tourism activities, Japan’s National Police Agency says
One of Japan’s most beautiful hot spring towns announces new limits on number of day trippers
Famous Japanese painter’s centuries-old cat artwork proves Japan has always loved felines
Daiso unveils new official mascot, Daizo the elephant
New Japanese-made Godzilla movie announced, looks to be first direct sequel since 1999
Weekly Shonen Jump teams up with Georgia to bring us limited-edition manga-printed coffee cans
Dress like your favourite Lupin III character with suits and kimono designed by Japanese tailors
We visit the new all-you-can-eat KFC buffet restaurant in Tokyo
JR West unveils new Japanese long distance train with special features for passengers
Tokyo all-you-can-eat senbei deal is perfect for newbies to the world of beloved Japanese snacks
Cutest rice balls ever? Adorable new onigiri shop opening in downtown Tokyo【Photos】
This is what a 10,000-yen (US$92) Tokyo bento boxed lunch looks like【Taste test】
Which Studio Ghibli house would you most like to live in?
Japan’s new Pokémon donut treat marks Ditto’s Mister Donut debut!
Tokyo bento boxed lunch shop charges different prices depending on how heavy your laptop is