The Lucky Daruma Temple: Katsuoji

Want to win something, anything? Come to Katsuoji

By Masayoshi Hirose

Community writer

Translated by Justin Velgus

Community writer

The deity is enshrined in framework filled with Daruma dolls. What could the meaning of the Daruma dolls being places in pairs mean?

On the gate, the name of the mountain spirit is written: 応頂山 (Ōchōzan)

Within the precincts of the shrine, the spot where you feel the greatest sense of awe is on the stone steps which lead to the two storied pagoda.

All over the temple grounds, Daruma dolls catch your eye

Greenery hangs over the path connecting one of the halls and the area where good luck Daruma dolls are offered

Even here, these charming fellows keep us in good company!

During the spring season, Rhododendron and Azalea flowers, particularly the Tsutsuji (evergreen), come alive into a full bloom

Stone lanterns loiter in the warmth of the abundant greenery

Here is the Lucky Daruma Temple, Katsuoji, in Mino City, Osaka.

You can enjoy a comfortable stroll from Mino Station to "Meji Period's Mino Forest Waterfall." Beyond the waterfall on a mountain road is a temple.

Here at Katsuoji there is a long history of people that came to pray for good luck to win events in their lives. Most notably are famous warlords or generals, such as Genji and Ashikaga. As people came to prayer here to win contests or events, more and more Katsuoji became known as the "temple of the winner's luck." Even now, there are Daruma dolls watching over us here and there around the temple grounds. Such charming Daruma charms, please give us your luck!

More info

Find out more about Katsuoji Temple.

Katsuoji Temple in Photos

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By Masayoshi Hirose

Community writer

Following Follow

Translated by Justin Velgus

Community writer

Following Follow

Masayoshi Hirose Photographer 10 years ago

Justin-san,Thank you very much for your help. 有難うございます。

Masayoshi Hirose Photographer 10 years ago

Camille Dufour-Blain,Thank you very much. Please meet this attractive Dharma.

Justin Velgus Translator 10 years ago

When I saw Hirose-san's pictures on the Japanese site of Japan Travel, I knew I had to translate it and share this awesome find with more Japan lovers! I will pass on your comments to him. I agree; Daruma are really cool!