Japanese Cranes Meaning

Few creatures in the world carry the weight of tradition, hope, and deep spiritual significance quite like the elegant bird of the Far East. The core Japanese Cranes Meaning is rooted in concepts of longevity and happiness, elevating the Tsuru (crane) from a mere bird into a revered national treasure. These graceful, long-legged birds embody some of the most cherished ideals in Japanese culture, appearing everywhere from ancient folklore to contemporary design. The profound Japanese Cranes Meaning is why you will find them adorning wedding kimonos, New Year’s cards, and even the smallest, most heartfelt paper gifts.

 

The Japanese Cranes Meaning is primarily associated with several powerful concepts that have been celebrated for centuries. These meanings are often intertwined with their majestic appearance and the ancient belief that they can live for a thousand years.

| Core Japanese Cranes Meaning | Description in Culture |
| :— | :— |
| Longevity (Chouju) | Cranes are believed to live for 1,000 years, making them the ultimate symbol of a long and healthy life. |
| Good Fortune (Kichijitsu) | Seeing a crane is an omen of happiness and prosperity, often acting as a messenger of good luck. |
| Fidelity (Chūjitsu) | Cranes mate for life and are frequently depicted in pairs, representing marital loyalty and enduring love. |
| Peace (Heiwa) | Especially in the form of the paper crane, the Japanese Cranes Meaning is strongly connected to international peace and hope. |

This comprehensive table offers a direct answer to the fundamental question of the Japanese Cranes Meaning, setting the stage for a much deeper exploration. The bird is more than just a beautiful animal; it is a living symbol, or Tsuru, that permeates the cultural landscape. In fact, understanding the full scope of the Japanese Cranes Meaning is key to appreciating a vast portion of Japanese art, mythology, and social customs. The concept of the crane is so pervasive that merely hearing the word Tsuru immediately brings to mind these high virtues and wishes for a long life.

The Tsuru: A National Treasure and the Bird of Happiness

The crane, or Tsuru (ツル), is arguably the most recognizable and revered bird in the Land of the Rising Sun. This majestic creature has been regarded as a sacred animal for millennia, standing alongside the dragon and the turtle as a symbol of powerful, auspicious virtues. The Japanese Cranes Meaning as the “bird of happiness” is a title earned through countless generations of admiration for its graceful movements, striking appearance, and the gentle nature of its family bonds. When you look at the bird as it dances in the snowy wetlands of Hokkaido, it is easy to see why it has captured the hearts and imaginations of an entire nation.

The significance is evident in historical artifacts, where the crane motif appears on coats of arms, samurai banners, and official documents, signifying the aspiration for success and good fortune. This long history of reverence reinforces the fundamental Japanese Cranes Meaning of prosperity and high status. Furthermore, the crane’s association with the purity of water and the openness of the sky links it to divine qualities, suggesting it can carry souls to heaven or bring blessings down to earth. This connection to the spiritual realm adds another profound layer to the universal Japanese Cranes Meaning recognized across the archipelago.

The natural behavior of the crane itself contributes heavily to the profound Japanese Cranes Meaning. They are creatures of routine and elegance, performing intricate, synchronized dances as part of their courtship and bonding rituals. These dances are breathtaking to witness and further solidify the image of the crane as a symbol of refined beauty and harmony. The ability of the crane to live in harmony with its environment and with its mate is the very reason why the Japanese Cranes Meaning remains so potent in various aspects of daily life, from art to literature.

Unpacking the Core Japanese Cranes Meaning: Longevity and Good Fortune

The idea that the Japanese Cranes Meaning is synonymous with longevity stems from an ancient belief that these birds possess an extraordinarily long lifespan, capable of living for a thousand years. This notion transforms the crane into an ethereal being, almost a mythical harbinger of endless time. It is this core belief that makes the image of the crane so crucial in celebrations of long life, such as the Kanreki (60th birthday) or the Koki (70th birthday). To offer a gift adorned with the crane is to wish the recipient an extraordinary, millennium-long existence.

The Japanese Cranes Meaning related to good fortune, or Kichijitsu, is equally powerful. In a culture that values auspicious omens and positive symbolism, the crane stands out as a preeminent figure. It is said that the crane is a messenger, capable of conveying wishes and hopes to the heavens, or that it is a companion to the immortal sages (sennin). This role as a positive intermediary explains why crane imagery is highly favored during the New Year, which is a period focused on setting intentions and attracting the best possible luck for the coming year.

A common visual representation that embodies this combined Japanese Cranes Meaning is the pairing of the crane with the turtle (Kame). While the crane is said to live for 1,000 years, the turtle is believed to live for 10,000 years, creating the phrase Tsuru sen-nen, Kame man-nen (Crane for a thousand years, turtle for ten thousand years). This powerful juxtaposition is often seen in traditional paintings and textiles, and it represents the utmost wish for infinite prosperity and health. It is a cultural shorthand for ultimate, enduring happiness, driven by the deeply rooted Japanese Cranes Meaning. This symbolic pairing is a classic example of how deep cultural concepts are often layered for maximum effect.

Fidelity and Marital Bliss: The Japanese Cranes Meaning in Weddings

Perhaps one of the most heartwarming aspects of the Japanese Cranes Meaning is its role as a symbol of eternal love and fidelity. Cranes are known to be monogamous, mating for life and engaging in elaborate, synchronized dances that beautifully express their bond. This loyalty is a perfect metaphor for the ideal marriage, which is why the Tsuru is an indispensable motif in traditional Japanese weddings. The crane’s representation of an unwavering, lifelong partnership elevates the bird beyond a symbol of mere luck.

When a bride wears a white wedding kimono (Shiromuku or Irouchikake), it is almost guaranteed to be embroidered with cranes in flight. This pattern is not just aesthetically pleasing; it is a profound wish and a visual commitment to the enduring nature of the marriage. The Japanese Cranes Meaning on the kimono serves as a powerful blessing, symbolizing that the couple’s union will be:

• Lifelong and Loyal: Mirroring the crane’s monogamous habits, assuring a commitment that lasts until death.
• Harmonious: Representing the graceful, synchronized movements of the crane’s courtship dance.
• Prosperous: Extending the bird’s general association with good fortune and a long, healthy life.

This emphasis on the Japanese Cranes Meaning in marriage rituals speaks volumes about the cultural value placed on loyalty and the sanctity of the family unit. The image of two cranes, facing each other or flying together, is a timeless depiction of a happy couple, making the Tsuru the quintessential bird of marital bliss. The continued popularity of this motif in modern wedding designs, even those that blend traditional and contemporary styles, shows how deeply the concept of Japanese Cranes Meaning has been internalized.

The Majestic Tanchozuru: Distinguishing the Red-Crowned Crane

While there are several species of cranes found in the region, the animal most directly associated with the deepest Japanese Cranes Meaning is the Red-crowned Crane (Grus japonensis), affectionately known as the Tanchozuru or “Red-head Crane”. This specific species is the true embodiment of the national treasure status. Its stark white body, black wing tips and neck, and the signature patch of bare, red skin on its crown make it instantly recognizable and visually stunning. The visual contrast and pure, striking appearance further underscore the nobility embedded in the Japanese Cranes Meaning.

The Red-crowned Crane is revered not just for its beauty but for its rarity and its historical role in mythology. Its common English name, the “Japanese Crane,” confirms its central place in the nation’s culture. When ancient poets, artists, and storytellers spoke of the Tsuru and the profound Japanese Cranes Meaning, they were almost always referring to this majestic Tancho. The bird’s large size and graceful movements in its natural habitat—particularly the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido—lend it an almost mythical, otherworldly quality that inspires awe and respect.

This specific bird holds a profound Japanese Cranes Meaning because it represents purity and a connection to the celestial realm. The contrast of the black and white plumage against the often-snowy background is seen as a representation of purity and clarity, while the red crown is sometimes interpreted as a sign of life force or the rising sun itself. This intricate visual symbolism is key to why the Tanchozuru has been so enduringly popular in various art forms.

The Habitat and Appearance that Inspire Mythology

The primary habitat of the Tanchozuru in Japan is the eastern part of Hokkaido, particularly the Kushiro wetlands. This cold, often snowy environment adds to the mystique and the resilience implied by the Japanese Cranes Meaning. The sight of these magnificent creatures performing their elaborate mating dances in the snow is considered one of Japan’s most spectacular natural wonders. Their ability to survive and thrive in such harsh conditions further solidifies their status as symbols of perseverance and strength.

The crane’s remarkable physical appearance is a key element in its cultural status. Its height, long neck, and broad wingspan give it an air of elegance and seriousness, perfect for representing virtues like wisdom and fidelity. The characteristic red patch is not actually feathers but a patch of skin that the bird can flush, making it appear brighter during displays of emotion or courtship rituals. This unique feature, the “red crown,” is what differentiates it and gives it the name Tancho, the “red spot.” The inherent beauty and natural majesty of the bird directly feed into the powerful and cherished Japanese Cranes Meaning.

The very act of watching them fly—with a wing span that can exceed seven feet—gives the impression of a creature soaring between the mortal and immortal worlds, a perfect messenger for long life and good fortune. This visual spectacle cemented the bird’s place in folklore as a companion to the immortals, a concept that strongly contributes to the traditional Japanese Cranes Meaning. This connection to the spiritual and natural worlds elevates the significance of the crane far above that of a simple bird.

Conservation Efforts and the Modern Japanese Cranes Meaning of Hope

While the Japanese Cranes Meaning in culture is one of immortality and longevity, the real-world status of the Tanchozuru presents a contrasting and sobering narrative. Today, the Red-crowned Crane is a species whose existence is carefully managed and protected. As a result, the modern Japanese Cranes Meaning carries a profound message of hope, resilience, and the critical importance of conservation. The struggle of the bird to survive is a powerful, contemporary layer to its traditional symbolism.

Statistics show a fragile, but improving, situation. The global population of the Red-crowned Crane is limited, and while a significant portion of the wild population is found in Japan, their numbers remain relatively low. Latest figures indicate that there are only about 2,300 adult cranes in the wild, with roughly half of the Japanese population residing in the protected wetlands near Kushiro, Hokkaido. This scarcity makes the crane a precious sight and reinforces its cultural importance as a symbol that must be preserved.

The modern Japanese Cranes Meaning is therefore one of guardianship. The extensive conservation programs in Hokkaido, which include winter feeding and habitat protection, are a testament to the nation’s commitment to saving this living national symbol. Every effort made to protect the Tancho adds another dimension to the bird’s meaning, transforming it into a powerful emblem of:

• Environmental Responsibility: Recognizing the need to protect the natural world.
• Hope and Perseverance: Celebrating the success of bringing the population back from near extinction.
• The Fragility of Beauty: A reminder that even the most enduring symbols require human effort to survive.

The story of the Tanchozuru is an enduring narrative, one that connects ancient mythology with a very real, modern challenge. It is a stark reminder that the cherished Japanese Cranes Meaning of longevity must now be achieved through conservation, not just through folklore.

Senbazuru: The Profound Japanese Cranes Meaning in Paper

If the living crane is a symbol of longevity and fidelity, the paper crane, or Orizuru, embodies a specific, deeply personal, and communal Japanese Cranes Meaning related to wishing and peace. The tradition of Senbazuru (千羽鶴), which literally translates to “one thousand cranes,” is a powerful precatory custom derived from the ancient belief that anyone who folds a thousand paper cranes will be granted a wish by the gods. This particular Japanese Cranes Meaning is perhaps the most widely recognized globally.

The act of folding a single paper crane is an act of heartfelt intention. The time, care, and precision required for the traditional origami fold imbue the crane with the folder’s wish, hope, or prayer. A single paper crane carries the weight of a world’s hope, and when grouped into a Senbazuru, that power is multiplied tenfold. Folding 1,000 paper cranes is a meditative, communal exercise often undertaken by families, friends, or even strangers to concentrate their collective energy toward a specific goal.

The Japanese Cranes Meaning in the context of Senbazuru is versatile and can be applied to many wishes, but it always centers on the greatest human aspirations:

• Recovery from Illness: Wishing for a swift and complete return to health.
• Peace and Reconciliation: A prayer for a world free from conflict.
• Success and Fulfillment: Hopes for the achievement of a major personal goal.
• Longevity and Happiness: Reaffirming the traditional Japanese Cranes Meaning for a friend or family member.

The sheer volume of one thousand cranes, strung together into a colorful tapestry, creates a breathtaking visual display that is as powerful as the wish it represents. This specific manifestation of the Japanese Cranes Meaning highlights the belief that collective effort can indeed influence destiny.

The Legend of a Thousand Cranes and Fulfilled Wishes

The fundamental driver of the Senbazuru tradition is the ancient folklore that promised a wish to the person who achieved the feat of folding 1,000 cranes. This tradition is a blend of hope, perseverance, and artistry. The legend serves as a cultural reminder that great things require great effort, and that a sustained, focused action can lead to the fulfillment of desires. The process of folding 1,000 Orizuru is a commitment to the wish itself.

Often, Senbazuru are presented as gifts for special occasions. For instance, a sports team might fold 1,000 cranes for their star player to wish them victory and prevent injury. A family may fold them for a newborn, wishing the baby a long, healthy life, echoing the core Japanese Cranes Meaning of longevity. The colorful paper used for the cranes also contributes to the symbolic power, with different colors often representing different virtues, such as:

• Red: Love, energy, and life force.
• White: Purity, innocence, and peace.
• Gold: Prosperity, wealth, and success.
• Purple: Healing and spiritual power.

This layering of color meaning onto the already profound Japanese Cranes Meaning makes the Senbazuru a highly personalized and deeply moving gift. The tradition ensures that the fundamental Japanese Cranes Meaning of hope and good fortune is constantly renewed through contemporary acts of dedication. The enduring power of this custom is a testament to its spiritual and cultural roots.

 

Sadako Sasaki and the Global Symbol of Peace

While the ancient Japanese Cranes Meaning focused on longevity, the modern, global significance of the paper crane is inextricably linked to the story of Sadako Sasaki. Sadako was a young girl living in Hiroshima who developed leukemia from radiation exposure following the atomic bombing. Hearing the legend that folding a thousand paper cranes would grant her wish for health, she began to fold them from her hospital bed. Her poignant story tragically ended before she could complete the thousand, depending on which version of the story you hear, but her friends and family finished the task for her.

The story of Sadako transformed the Orizuru from a national symbol of longevity into a worldwide emblem of peace and a prayer against the horror of nuclear war. This is the most powerful evolution of the Japanese Cranes Meaning in the 20th century. Every year, thousands of Senbazuru from all over the world are sent to the Children’s Peace Monument in Hiroshima, a memorial dedicated to Sadako and the other child victims. This constant stream of paper cranes ensures that the Japanese Cranes Meaning of peace and hope remains a global rallying cry.

The global resonance of Sadako’s story and the powerful image of the paper crane have amplified the inherent Japanese Cranes Meaning of good fortune and hope. It is a powerful example of how culture and history can combine to give an object a meaning that transcends its original context. The fragility of the paper contrasts sharply with the enormous weight of the message it carries, making the Orizuru a profoundly moving and universal symbol. The paper crane, therefore, is the most accessible and internationally understood articulation of the Japanese Cranes Meaning.

Japanese Cranes Meaning in Art, Literature, and Popular Culture

The impact of the crane on Japanese culture extends far beyond weddings and origami; it is a pervasive motif woven into the fabric of art, literature, design, and even modern commerce. The Japanese Cranes Meaning of good fortune, longevity, and high status makes it a favorite subject for artists and designers, ensuring its iconic status is continually reinforced through visual media. From the sweeping brushstrokes of classical painting to the sleek lines of modern corporate logos, the Tsuru is a ubiquitous symbol of aspiration and beauty.

In the realm of classic literature and folklore, the crane often takes on a personality, sometimes appearing as a mysterious, beautiful woman—a transformation that speaks to its mystical qualities. One famous folktale, Tsuru no Ongaeshi (The Crane’s Return of a Favor), beautifully encapsulates the virtue of loyalty and the hidden, mystical nature of the crane. In this story, a crane rescued by a man transforms into a beautiful woman and weaves exquisite cloth for him, eventually revealing her true form when her wish for privacy is violated. This tale adds themes of sacrifice, gratitude, and the sanctity of promises to the overall Japanese Cranes Meaning.

In contemporary Japanese culture, the elegant form of the crane is still highly valued. It is often used in design where an element of timeless class and quality is desired. You can see the Japanese Cranes Meaning subtly integrated into:

• Ceramics and Lacquerware: Depicting cranes in flight to symbolize a soaring future.
• Logos and Branding: Utilizing the crane’s silhouette to suggest excellence and longevity in business.

Modern Fashion: Incorporating the Tsuru* motif into jackets, ties, and accessories as a sign of sophistication and good luck.

 

The continued use of the crane motif across such varied media demonstrates the enduring power and versatility of the Japanese Cranes Meaning. It is a testament to a symbol that has not diminished over time but rather has gained new layers of depth and relevance.

From Kimono Motifs to Woodblock Prints (Ukiyo-e)

Historically, the crane has been a favorite subject in Japanese art. The woodblock prints (Ukiyo-e) of the Edo period frequently featured the crane in grand, sweeping compositions. These prints often placed the Tancho in its natural snowy environment or depicted it in flight, often against the backdrop of Mount Fuji, the ultimate symbol of the nation. The artistic renditions of the crane, from the delicate brushwork on a silk screen to the bold lines of Ukiyo-e, helped to solidify and popularize the universal Japanese Cranes Meaning.

The crane motif is particularly prominent in textile arts, notably in the design of the kimono and the obi (sash). A kimono adorned with a repeating pattern of cranes, known as Tsuru-mon, is considered a highly auspicious garment, reserved for special occasions like weddings or coming-of-age ceremonies (Seijin-shiki). The patterns are carefully crafted to convey specific wishes, with cranes soaring towards the sun symbolizing a brilliant future, and pairs of cranes representing enduring marital love. The sheer artistry involved in creating these crane-patterned textiles emphasizes the high cultural value of the Japanese Cranes Meaning.

The precision and artistry required for these creations mirror the natural elegance of the bird itself, transforming a piece of clothing into a wearable blessing. By wearing a kimono with the Tsuru-mon, a person is literally wrapping themselves in the Japanese Cranes Meaning of longevity and good fortune. This integration of the bird’s symbolism into personal adornment ensures that the cultural significance is not just an abstract idea but a lived, visible reality.

Analogies of the Crane in Business and Perseverance

The powerful symbolism associated with the Japanese Cranes Meaning is also frequently co-opted in the modern world of business and brand identity. Companies often choose the Tsuru as part of their visual brand because the bird’s inherent meaning translates perfectly into corporate aspirations:

• Corporate Longevity: The 1,000-year life myth suggests a business that is built to last for centuries, embodying resilience and tradition.
• Excellence and Grace: The elegant, noble posture of the crane represents a company that operates with high standards and professionalism.
• Good Fortune/Prosperity: Using the crane implies a business that is expected to succeed and bring prosperity to its stakeholders.

The concept of folding a Senbazuru also provides a profound business analogy for perseverance. The dedication and sustained effort required to fold 1,000 cranes mirrors the effort needed to launch a successful venture or complete a challenging project. This analogy subtly reinforces the idea that hard work, combined with a clear vision, will eventually lead to the fulfillment of a “wish” or goal. Therefore, the Japanese Cranes Meaning is used to inspire employees and convey a message of stability and future success to clients. The simplicity and widespread understanding of the crane as a symbol of longevity makes it an ideal, instantly recognizable corporate emblem.

Deeper Dive: The Mythology Surrounding Japanese Cranes Meaning

To fully appreciate the scope of the Japanese Cranes Meaning, one must venture into the realm of classical mythology, where the bird truly became the legendary creature we revere today. In ancient folklore, the crane was not merely a long-lived bird but an intermediary creature, a messenger of the gods, and a companion to sennin (immortal hermits). This divine association elevates the crane to a semi-sacred status, making the Japanese Cranes Meaning more spiritual than purely secular.

In many creation myths and ancient texts, the crane is depicted with wings large enough to carry human souls. This role as a psychopomp—a guide of souls—is another reason why the crane is often associated with the transition between life and death and why it features so prominently in burial rites or memorials. The belief was that the crane could ensure a safe and auspicious journey to the next world. This mythical function adds layers of comfort and spiritual reassurance to the traditional Japanese Cranes Meaning.

Furthermore, the crane is often featured alongside other mythical creatures in Japanese mythology, such as the Hō-ō (phoenix) and the Ryū (dragon). While the phoenix symbolizes fire and rebirth, and the dragon symbolizes power and water, the crane often represents the air and the ethereal. This positioning among the highest pantheon of mythical beasts further solidifies its importance and the depth of the spiritual Japanese Cranes Meaning in the cultural consciousness.

Heavenly Messengers and Hermit-like Wisdom

The association of the crane with the sennin (immortal hermits) is a key aspect of its connection to wisdom and tranquility. Sennin were believed to possess supernatural powers and would often retreat to remote mountains to seek enlightenment. The crane, with its pure white plumage and ability to soar high above the mortal world, was seen as their chosen mode of transport, a pure vessel capable of crossing vast, spiritual distances. This image reinforces the Japanese Cranes Meaning of wisdom, suggesting that the bird is privy to the secrets of the universe.

The crane’s solitary or paired nature, often seen standing still in the water, lends itself to the symbolism of deep meditation and introspection. This quiet, dignified presence is analogous to the wise hermit, patiently awaiting knowledge. This perception is a beautiful cultural projection, attributing humanistic virtues to the bird’s natural behavior. This mythological context is why the Japanese Cranes Meaning encompasses more than just luck; it also includes a profound respect for inner peace and cultivated wisdom.

The concept of the crane as a “heavenly messenger” is what connects it so directly to the fulfillment of wishes. If the crane can carry the sennin to the mountains of immortality, it can certainly carry a person’s heartfelt prayer to the heavens. This mythological role is the ultimate source of the power behind the Senbazuru tradition. The paper crane is not merely a piece of folded paper; it is a spiritual vehicle imbued with the intent of the folder, leveraging the ancient Japanese Cranes Meaning to connect the human world with the divine.

The Enduring Legacy of the Japanese Cranes Meaning

The Japanese Cranes Meaning is a rich, multi-faceted tapestry woven from ancient folklore, natural history, and profound human tragedy. From the moment the graceful Tanchozuru was observed to mate for life, it became the perfect symbol of fidelity. From the ancient legend that proclaimed its 1,000-year lifespan, it became the ultimate icon of longevity and enduring good fortune. And from the quiet dedication of a young girl in Hiroshima, it transformed into a universal prayer for peace and hope.

The endurance of the Japanese Cranes Meaning across millennia is remarkable. It is a symbol that has successfully traversed the distance from classical mythology to contemporary conservation efforts. Whether depicted in a centuries-old ukiyo-e print or folded from a square of colored paper by a child today, the crane continues to carry a powerful message. It is a constant cultural anchor that reminds people of the virtues most valued in Japanese society: loyalty, perseverance, and the timeless wish for a life that is both long and happy.

To encounter the crane, whether in its wild form, in a stunning piece of art, or as a string of a thousand paper wishes, is to be reminded of the highest human ideals. The Japanese Cranes Meaning is a lasting cultural treasure, a magnificent symbol that will undoubtedly continue to inspire awe, hope, and artistic expression for another thousand years. This enduring legacy solidifies the crane as a truly sacred animal and a crucial pillar of global cultural symbolism.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is the primary Japanese Cranes Meaning?

A: The primary Japanese Cranes Meaning is longevity (Chouju) and good fortune (Kichijitsu). It is believed that the crane, or Tsuru, can live for a thousand years, making it a powerful symbol of a long, prosperous, and happy life. It is also a significant symbol of peace and fidelity, particularly in its paper form or when depicted in wedding motifs.

Q: Why do people fold 1,000 paper cranes (Senbazuru)?

A: People fold 1,000 paper cranes, known as Senbazuru, as a tradition rooted in the belief that doing so will grant the folder a heartfelt wish. This powerful, collective act of folding concentrates good luck, strength, and happiness. While traditionally a wish for health or longevity, the Senbazuru gained global significance as a symbol of peace following the story of Sadako Sasaki.

Q: Which specific crane is known as the Japanese Crane?

A: The specific species most revered and culturally significant, known as the Japanese Crane in English, is the Red-crowned Crane (Grus japonensis), or Tanchozuru. This bird is distinguished by its stark white plumage, black markings, and the signature patch of red skin on its head. This is the bird most often referenced when discussing the profound Japanese Cranes Meaning of nobility and longevity.

Q: Is the crane a symbol of love and marriage?

A: Yes, the crane is one of the most important symbols of love, fidelity, and marital happiness. Cranes are known to be monogamous and mate for life, and their intricate, synchronized courtship dances are seen as the perfect metaphor for a harmonious, lifelong partnership. For this reason, crane motifs are indispensable elements in traditional wedding kimonos and decorations, invoking the Japanese Cranes Meaning of unwavering loyalty.