A warehouse in Takasaki that also functions as a handicraft store and workshop, with the largest daruma production in Japan — producing 70,000 pieces per year. This is the best place to understand the history and importance of the round, traditional lucky doll.
What to expect
Expect a big warehouse full of daruma, each customized with its own unique design. As you enter, you will be greeted by an impressive display of red daruma, with the shop located just behind this display. While you’re in the shop, make sure to explore the seasonal daruma and the ones exclusive to Daimonya.
The daruma workshop takes place at the back of the warehouse.
Workshops
There are two workshops to choose from: a painting experience and a handprinting experience.
The painting experience is the main one. As part of this workshop, you will learn about the importance of Takasaki Daruma and the customs behind their creation. Following this, you will select a daruma doll to paint and practice the technique.
Interestingly, the brows of a daruma are shaped like a crane, while its mustache is shaped like a tortoise. You can customize the front and back of the daruma, and take it home with you.
Prices for the workshop start around ¥1,500 and may increase depending on which daruma doll you choose. Note that the session lasts about 45 minutes and occurs twice a day — at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. It is best to reserve a spot online.
The handprinting experience is better suited for children, but adults can join in too. This 10-minute workshop involves simply making a handprint on your daruma. It is a great keepsake for babies, children, and couples. This workshop costs ¥500, but you will need to buy a daruma doll beforehand. There is also an additional fee of ¥330 for personalized imprinting.
The handprinting experience takes place twice a day — at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. You should also book a spot for this online.
Please note that neither of these workshops take place during December or January.
How to get there
The nearest station to Daimonya is Gumma-Yawata Station on the JR Shin-Etsu Line. From there, it is a 11-minute walk or a 7-minute bus ride on the Gururin Syorinzan Line towards Takasaki Station. The buses are infrequent, so we would recommend walking.
