Daruma 達磨

Bodhidharma's path to Japan

Daruma (Bodhidharma) was an Indian or Central Asian Buddhist monk who lived during the 5th/6th century and is credited with the spread of Chan Buddhism in China, which became Zen Buddhism in Japan. Zen is said to be influenced by Taoist philosophy.

Today, "Daruma dolls" are traditional good luck gifts in Japan.