写真

The Daruma dolls, is a hollow, round, Japanese doll modeled after Bodhidharma, the founder of the Zen sect of Buddhism.

The eyes of Daruma are often blank when sold. The recipient of the doll fills in one eye upon setting the goal, then the other upon fulfilling it. In this way, every time they see the one-eyed Daruma, they recall the goal. One explanation how this custom started says that in order to motivate Daruma-san to grant your wish, you promise to give him full sight once the goal is accomplished.

This picture was taken in Monzen Nakacho at the Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine flea market.