Buddhist Prayer Bracelet / Nenju / Black / 108 Beads

This prayer bead is made from the fruit of a tree called Seigetsu Bodaiju (星月菩提樹).
As the name suggests, this bead has one depression representing the moon and numerous black spots representing stars, representing the universe. Prayer beads made of linden trees are very sacred and are worn for good luck. The more you use it, the more luster it gets and the more you can enjoy the change of color. Please use them on a daily basis as a good-luck charm.

The number 108 is also said to represent the number of human vexations in Buddhism. It has a meaning of cutting off 108 troubles by chanting sutras or Buddhist prayers while practicing asceticism and counting 108 beads one by one. Some beads have as many as 1080 beads, but basically they consist of 108 beads, or 54 beads (half of 108), 36 beads (one-third), 27 beads (one-quarter), 18 beads (one-sixth), and so on.

*The beads are made to order, and we can make beads that match the size of your arm.
*The size of the beads will vary depending on the thickness of your arm.

*The beads are made to order, and we can make beads that match the size of your arm.
*The size of the beads will vary depending on the thickness of your arm.

Star Moon Bodhi Tree Seed

NENJU KATAOKA

"The best amulet of your life."

We want our beads to be worn all the time as a good luck charm. For this reason, we must make prayer beads that are beautiful and make you happy to wear them.
We hand-cut each bead one by one with sincerity, and make them day by day so that our customers can use them for a long time.

ARTISAN STORY

Masamitsu Kataoka / Nenju Kataoka
Masamitsu Kataoka is the fourth generation of Nenju Kataoka, which has been in business for over 100 years. He is still using foot-pedal wheel (they are the only craftsmen who use this tool in Japan) to make prayer beads made from the nuts of the Seigetsu Bodaiju / Linden (星月菩提樹), which is said to bring "unlimited good fortune". He carries on the techniques and traditions of Nenju (prayer beads) making. They also make prayer beads that match the modern age, such as prayer bead bracelets for daily use.

KYO NENJU / KYOTO PRAYER BEADS

About 1,200 years ago / 800s / Heian Period (794–1185)

Prayer beads reached Japan with Buddhism, and by the Heian period different schools were refining bead counts, tassels and methods of use. Because Kyoto became home to many major temples, specialists developed who understood the formal requirements of each sect and mastered drilling, polishing and tassel making.

For Japanese people, nenju are among the most familiar Buddhist implements, commonly held at funerals and memorial services. Formal versions differ by sect, while simplified sets are widely used and may be given to mark adulthood, marriage or other life stages.

Although many sets look similar at first glance, bead numbers, the position of the larger parent bead and tassel design can vary significantly by Buddhist school. Materials range from bodhi seeds and wood to coral and crystal. The maker therefore needs both craft skill and detailed religious knowledge.

Individual Differences

As each piece is individually handcrafted, slight variations in color, pattern, shape, and texture may occur. These subtle differences are a natural characteristic of handcrafted works, making each piece truly unique. We hope you will enjoy these individual variations as part of the beauty and character of Japanese craftsmanship.

Production Time

If an item is not currently in stock, it may be made to order by the artisan. As each piece is carefully handcrafted, production may take several months depending on the item and the artisan's schedule. We appreciate your patience and understanding.