Daruma dolls are traditional Japanese symbols of perseverance, determination, and hope.
They are used to set goals and make wishes come true.
Daruma
The Goal-Setting Doll
The Daruma doll is a traditional Japanese good luck charm, inspiring perseverance, hope, and determination.
It is modeled after Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, who is said to have meditated for nine years facing a wall. The dolls are typically made of red papier-mâché, without arms, with a prominent face and blank eyes, ready for setting intentions.
Daruma embodies the Japanese proverb “Nanakorobi yaoki” — “fall down seven times, get up eight.” It symbolizes fortune, prosperity, home safety, and business success, and can be an encouraging companion in pursuing your goals.
Eyes
When you first make a wish, fill in the right eye (from your perspective, it is the left eye of the Daruma). While drawing the eye, think about your wish or goal. Place the Daruma somewhere visible so you can always see it and stay mindful of your intention.
Once the wish is fulfilled, fill in the left eye.
You can use any pen or marker that works on papier-mâché — there’s no wrong choice, so don’t worry if you pick the “wrong” side.
Colors
Daruma dolls come in many colors, each associated with different wishes or intentions.
Choosing a Daruma color that matches your goal may help you focus your mind and strengthen your determination. Of course, the most important thing is your wish itself — but selecting a color that represents your intention can make the Daruma feel even more personal and meaningful.
Red – Brings general good fortune, protects from illness and misfortune, strengthens family safety and vitality.
White – Success in competitions, exams, elections; achieving goals.
Gold – Wealth, economy, career, or hobbies.
Black – Drives away evil spirits, respected, good for business.
Blue – Study, career, personal growth, talent development.
Pink – Love, finding a partner, strengthen relationships.
Green – Health, self-confidence, talent growth.
Orange – Good start, childbirth, leadership, avoiding misfortune.
Silver – Self-actualization, stability, safety, ease in childbirth.
Light Blue – Work, exams, development of potential, mental serenity.
Purple – Longevity, fulfilling wishes, reaching high levels.
Yellow – Money, vitality, hope, aesthetic beauty, realizing dreams.
Placement & Use
Place your Daruma somewhere visible. Feng shui suggests east or southeast, where energy for growth and vitality gathers.
- Family luck: living room
- Career luck: desk area
- Financial luck: entrance
Avoid humid places like bathrooms or toilets.
If a wish seems stuck, try rolling the Daruma — Nanakorobi yaoki — it may help “unlock the situation.”
After Use
- If a wish is not fulfilled after a year, it’s okay to keep it or retire it respectfully.
- Fulfilled Daruma can stay as a companion.
- To dispose: lightly cleanse with salt, wrap in white paper, and dispose separately from ordinary trash.
- Before sending off your Daruma, make sure both eyes are colored, as a respectful farewell.
- Many choose a bigger Daruma for the next goal.
Above all, the Daruma honors Bodhidharma, the great master. Treat it with care, and may everyone’s wishes come true!