This is a hand-painted Daruma doll from Miidera Temple (三井寺), a historic Buddhist temple located in Ōtsu, Shiga Prefecture, near Lake Biwa. Daruma dolls, modeled after the monk Bodhidharma, are traditional Japanese talismans of perseverance and good luck.
Painted in vibrant red with bold black and white brushwork, this Daruma bears a determined expression and the character 福 (fuku) on the front, symbolizing “good fortune” or “blessings.” On the back, the name 三井寺 is inscribed, marking its origin from the temple itself. Miidera, officially known as Onjo-ji, is renowned for its long history, beautiful gardens, and significant role in the Tendai Buddhist tradition.
This charming Daruma not only serves as a symbol of resilience—embodying the famous Japanese saying "Nanakorobi yaoki" (七転び八起き), or "fall down seven times, get up eight"—but also makes for a meaningful keepsake or gift linked to a sacred site in Japan.
