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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything visitors ask before booking a Daruma painting experience at DARUMA LAB. in Shinsaibashi, Osaka.
Where can I paint a Daruma in Osaka?
DARUMA LAB. is a hands-on Daruma painting studio in Shinsaibashi, Osaka. Visitors paint and personalise their own traditional Japanese Daruma and take it home after the experience.
What is a Daruma?
A Daruma is a traditional Japanese lucky doll inspired by Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism. It is associated with perseverance, wishes and reaching goals. It is sold with blank eyes: you fill in one eye when you set a goal and the other when you achieve it.
How long does the experience take?
About 90 minutes from start to finish. Drying and wrapping are included, so you leave with your Daruma in hand.
How much does it cost?
8,000 yen per person, tax included. The price covers one Daruma doll, all paints and brushes, and an apron. A gold or silver Daruma is 1,000 yen extra, and those two are decorated with markers rather than a brush.
How many Daruma colours can I choose from?
Twelve. Red, pink, purple, blue, green, yellow, orange, white, grey, black, silver and gold, and each colour carries its own meaning. You pick one Daruma and then draw and write on it with a brush, in any ink colour you like. Silver and gold cost 1,000 yen extra and are decorated with markers rather than a brush.
Do I need a reservation?
Yes. The experience is by reservation. Bookings are open now, and the first available date is 26 September 2026, our opening day.
Is the workshop available in English?
Yes. Staff guide the experience in Japanese and English. For other languages we use a translation app, which may take a little longer.
Can children join?
Yes, all ages are welcome. Younger children are asked to join with an adult.
Can I take my Daruma home the same day?
Yes. We dry and wrap it during the session so it travels safely in your luggage. We do not ship Daruma dolls.
Where is DARUMA LAB. located?
DARUMA LAB. is at Popolo Bldg. 2F, 1-10-17 Nishi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 542-0086, a 3-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station.
What are the start times?
Sessions start at 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, 18:00 and 20:00. The studio is open from 10:00 to 21:30 and the last entry is at 20:00.
Will my clothes get dirty?
Aprons are provided, and the paint washes off hands with water. We still recommend avoiding wide sleeves or clothes you would not want to stain.
Do I need any painting experience?
No. Most visitors hold a brush for the first time. Staff show you how to hold it and how to write, and examples are available to copy.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, with a full refund. Within 24 hours, or for a no-show, the full price is charged. Date changes are free up to 24 hours before, subject to availability.
Is the studio indoors?
Yes. The studio is entirely indoors and open all year, so rain does not affect your plans.
Prices and details are as planned for opening and may change. If your question is not answered here, email info@darumalab-osaka.com or call 070-1249-5070.