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Iizumi Kannon Daruma Ichiba

Guide

Iizumi Kannon Daruma Ichiba

8 min read

Event Overview

Iizumi Kannon Daruma Ichiba is a traditional event held annually on December 17th and 18th at Shofukuji Temple (also known as Iizumi Kannon) in Odawara, Kanagawa Prefecture. Shofukuji is a revered site, serving as the 5th station of the Bando 33 Kannon pilgrimage. This market, which has continued since the Edo period, is one of the earliest Daruma markets in the Kanto region, drawing crowds seeking prosperity and good fortune. The atmosphere is filled with the lively energy of the year-end season.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main attraction is the array of stalls filled with Daruma dolls and various lucky charms (Engimono) packed closely throughout the temple grounds. You can find a wide variety of colorful Daruma and decorative kumade (rakes) symbolizing business success, offering a true taste of a traditional Japanese street festival. Additionally, food stalls will be serving delicious treats, allowing you to enjoy a warm snack while strolling through the festive temple grounds.

Schedule

The event takes place over two days: December 17th and December 18th.

  • *December 17**: 10:00 to approximately 21:00 (Expect a lively crowd of people after work in the evening)
  • *December 18**: 09:00 to approximately 13:00 (The main activities take place in the morning)

Venue & Access

The venue is Shofukuji Temple, located in Odawara, Kanagawa.

By Public Transportation

  • *Bus**: Take a bus from Odawara Station East Exit bound for "Shin-Matsuda" or "Shimotsoga Station" (approx. 15 mins). Get off at "Iizumi Kannon-mae" and walk for 1 minute.
  • *Taxi**: Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from JR Kamuya Station.

By Car (Parking Information)

  • *December 17**: A temporary parking lot is available at the Sakui Riverbed (approx. 150 spaces). Please note that traffic restrictions will be in place near the main gate from 12:00 to 22:00 and in the surrounding area from 16:00 to 22:00.
  • *December 18**: Parking is available in front of the Nio-mon Gate (approx. 40 spaces). Spaces are limited, so please arrive early.

Tips for Visitors

To make the most of the market, consider your timing to avoid heavy crowds. While the 17th stays open late into the evening, the 18th concludes early in the afternoon, so an early arrival is highly recommended. When purchasing a Daruma, you can choose sizes and expressions to suit your needs or even write your wishes on them. Please consult the local vendors or temple staff for more details.

What to Bring & Etiquette

Clothing & Essentials

  • *Warmth**: As the event is held in mid-December, it can get very cold, especially in the evening. Please bring heavy coats, down jackets, gloves, and scarves.
  • *Footwear**: Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are recommended for navigating the temple grounds.
  • *Cash**: Most stalls and vendors primarily accept cash. It is best to carry plenty of coins and small bills (such as 1,000 yen notes).
  • *Eco-bag**: A small bag or reusable tote will be useful for carrying your purchased Daruma or lucky charms.

Manners & Other Info

  • *Weather**: The event typically proceeds unless officially canceled, but the ground may become slippery if it rains. We recommend waterproof shoes or a raincoat.
  • *Payment**: Cash is the primary method of payment at the stalls.
  • *Reservations**: No advance reservation is required, but please check the official information regarding parking and traffic restrictions before your visit.