だるまさんがころんだ
(Daruma-san ga koronda!)
Variations of "Daruma-san ga koronda !" are played around the world. It's the equivalent of "Red Light, Green Light, 1, 2, 3!"
だるまさんがころんだ
(Daruma-san ga koronda!)
The Daruma Doll Fell Over!
Game
Game
(Japanese)
(English)
だるまさんがころんだ
(Daruma-san ga koronda!)
The Daruma doll fell over!
 - Japanese Children's Songs - Japan - Mama Lisa's World: Children's Songs and Rhymes from Around the World
"Pin It")
Notes
A daruma doll is "also known as a Dharma doll, is a hollow, round, Japanese traditional doll modeled after Bodhidharma, the founder of the Zen sect of Buddhism. These dolls, though typically red and depicting a bearded man (Dharma), vary greatly in color and design depending on region and artist. Though considered an omocha, meaning toy, by some, Daruma has a design that is rich in symbolism and is regarded more as a talisman of good luck to the Japanese... Many children's games make mention of Daruma." -Wikipedia
Game Instructions
"Daruma-san ga koronda!" is played with a group of people.
The group stands on one end of the playing area, at the starting line. The person who is "It" stands at the other end, at the finish line, with his back to the group. He says, "Daruma-san ga koronda!" Then he quickly turns around to face the group.
When he is facing away from the group, the people in the group run towards the finish line. Meanwhile, as soon as the one who's "It" finishes saying, "Daruma-san ga koronda!" he quickly turns around to face the group. The group must freeze. Anyone who is caught moving has to go back to the starting line.
The game continues like this until someone reaches the finish line. That person wins and is "It" in the next round.
Thanks!
