Urawa Jukunichi is a traditional New Year market held each January, when the streets around Chōjuji Temple fill with stalls selling daruma dolls — round, hollow, red-and-white papier-mâché figures traditionally purchased to set an intention or wish for the coming year, with one eye painted in upon purchase and the second added once the goal is achieved. The festival’s name, meaning ‘19th day,’ reflects its traditional date, and the lively atmosphere of vendors, food stalls and crowds seeking fortune makes it a distinctly local slice of Japanese New Year culture.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Urawa (Saitama City), Saitama |
| Hours | Daytime and evening, January 19th (or nearest weekend) |
| Admission | Free to attend; daruma dolls from ~¥500 |
| Time needed | 1–1.5 hours |
| Best time | The main festival day |
What to See
- Stalls selling round, red-and-white daruma dolls in various sizes.
- The tradition of painting one eye in upon purchase.
- A lively New Year market atmosphere with food stalls.
- A distinctly local, less-touristed slice of Japanese culture.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Hikawa Shrine sightseeing.
- Pair with Urawa omurice at a retro cafe.
- Read our Saitama overview .
Getting There
- By train: JR Urawa Station, then a short walk to the temple area.
- By car: roughly 30–40 minutes from central Tokyo.
Tips
Daruma dolls come in various sizes and price points — a smaller one makes an easy, portable souvenir. Check the exact date each year, as the traditional January 19th timing can shift slightly depending on the calendar.
