Crane Origami Symbolism. The orizuru, or paper crane, is a design that is considered to be the most classic of all japanese origami. Whenever a major disaster strikes anywhere in the world, cranes are folded and sent to victims as a symbol of hope and recovery.

Cranes of this type look like the birds they are meant to resemble but they are also themselves symbolic because of. The japanese also believe that the crane carries the souls of the dead to paradise. Cranes are also viewed as symbols of happiness, and good luck.