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A temple for good luck in Osaka
In the late Nara period (8th century), amidst the majestic and tranquil natural scenery of this mountainous region, the twin brothers Zenchu and Zensan were captivated by its serene and sacred beauty. In 727, they built a small hut, laying the foundation for the temple that would later become famous. In this peaceful setting, the two brothers diligently practiced Buddhism, seeking enlightenment and inner peace.
Word of its sacredness spread far and wide. During periods of constant warfare, generals would visit this small temple to pray before every important battle. And miraculously, they all achieved resounding victories, creating glorious achievements. These consecutive victories further strengthened the belief in the temple's efficacy, transforming it into a sacred place respected and admired by people.
Katsuo Temple, home to thousands of Daruma lucky dolls.
Katsuoji Temple – known as the paradise of Osaka.
Another miraculous story that contributes to the reputation and sacredness of Katsuoji Temple is that when the Emperor was gravely ill, the entire country was plunged into anxiety and despair. People from all over flocked to this small temple nestled in the Mino mountains, sincerely praying for the Emperor's speedy recovery. They placed their faith and hope in the temple's miraculous power, praying day and night, hoping for a miracle to happen.
Many sacred stories are associated with the history of this place.
And indeed, the prayers of the people were heard. The emperor's illness gradually subsided and he eventually recovered completely. This event spread throughout the country, reinforcing the firm belief that Katsuoji Temple, with its sacredness and supernatural power, had bestowed blessings and helped the emperor overcome his serious illness. From then on, the temple's reputation spread far and wide, becoming a sacred place revered by the people who came to pray for good fortune and blessings for themselves and their families.
Known as a lucky temple, many people come to the temple to pray during the New Year.
After recovering from his illness, the emperor named the temple 勝王寺 (Sheng Wang Temple) as a token of gratitude. However, the name "Sheng Wang" was considered blasphemous, so the temple was renamed "Sheng Wei Temple," although the pronunciation remained the same: Katsuo-ji.
Katsuo-ji Temple is beautiful year-round, but autumn is the most stunning time. It is renowned as the best spot for viewing autumn foliage in the Kansai region.
It is from these colorful legends that Katsuoji Temple has become known by meaningful names: "the temple of victors" or "the temple for good fortune." The temple's reputation for sacredness has spread far beyond local borders, attracting people from all over the country.
Even today, pilgrims continue to flock to this place, especially during important occasions throughout the year. They come to Katsuoji Temple with sincere hearts, carrying heartfelt wishes for a peaceful and fortunate life. Some pray for academic success and exam achievement, others yearn for career advancement and smooth sailing, while still others seek good health and family harmony. All come to this sacred place believing that their heartfelt prayers will be heard and answered.
"The home" of thousands of Daruma dolls.
Katsuoji Temple is not only a sacred place but also a captivating tourist destination with countless unique features that entice visitors. Just imagining it is enough to enchant: amidst the vast, verdant mountains and forests, a striking red-painted bridge stands out, shrouded in a mystical mist, spanning a picturesque koi pond teeming with colorful fish. The scene resembles a beautiful ink painting, both enchanting and poetic.
Daruma dolls – the “god of luck” – represent the willpower and spirit of the Japanese people.
Among the wonders that attract visitors to Katsuoji Temple, the most prominent are the Daruma dolls – a long-standing and familiar symbol of good luck in Japanese culture. These round dolls, with their fierce yet friendly faces, have become an integral part of the temple, creating a unique and unforgettable impression on every visitor.
Daruma dolls are not merely decorative items; they have become an indispensable part of Japanese culture. Images of Daruma dolls can easily be found everywhere in Japan, from ancient temples and bustling shops to humble homes. This widespread popularity demonstrates the immense influence of Daruma on the spiritual lives of the Japanese people.
Daruma (ダルマ) is the Japanese pronunciation of the Sanskrit word Dharma, and is considered a shortened form of Bodhidharma.
Daruma dolls are modeled after the image of Bodhidharma (the founder of Zen Buddhism), a historical figure who had a profound influence on Buddhism in general and Zen Buddhism in particular. According to ancient legends, Bodhidharma traveled a long distance from India to China, bringing with him the teachings of Zen Buddhism to spread throughout Asia. His years of diligent practice, especially the story of his nine years of meditation facing a cliff, have become an endless source of inspiration for many generations. He is also revered as the founder of the Shaolin Temple, one of the most famous temples in China, considered the cradle of Shaolin martial arts.
To commemorate and honor Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, the Japanese created the unique and meaningful Daruma doll. Unlike ordinary dolls, Daruma dolls have a distinctive shape, usually made of wood or papier-mâché, round in shape, painted bright red, without arms or legs, and with a thick black mustache, creating an appearance that is both majestic and approachable. Another special feature of the Daruma doll is its plain white eyes, which are not painted.
Daruma dolls are handcrafted by Japanese artisans using traditional papier-mâché. They are round, hollow, and heavy at the bottom. Their seated posture is a lotus position, reminiscent of the meditation posture of Bodhidharma.
An interesting custom associated with Daruma dolls is that when buying a Daruma doll, Japanese people secretly make a wish and draw a pupil in one of the doll's eyes. The other eye is left blank until the wish comes true. When the wish is granted, they draw the pupil, completing the Daruma's eyes. This act symbolizes perseverance and determination in pursuing a goal to the end. It also expresses a strong belief in the power of willpower and luck, and serves as a reminder of the responsibility to strive to achieve one's wishes.
Daruma dolls come in five main colors: red, purple, yellow, gold, and silver, each symbolizing different things.
A year after purchasing a Daruma doll, Japanese people bring the doll back to the temple where they bought it and perform the ritual of burning the Daruma doll, regardless of whether their wish has come true or not. Some temples in Japan hold the daruma kuyo or dondoyaki ceremony, where rows of Daruma dolls are burned simultaneously.
Today, Daruma dolls are a popular souvenir for many tourists visiting Japan. In addition, they are widely favored by Japanese people who purchase them to display in prominent corners of their homes, believing that the dolls will help them achieve their life goals. Therefore, Daruma dolls are not just decorative items but also a profound cultural symbol, deeply rooted in the spirit and philosophy of the Japanese people.
