Senbazuru — one thousand origami cranes — have been folded throughout Japanese history as a vessel for prayers, hopes, and heartfelt wishes. While they were traditionally dedicated to shrines and temples, today they are created and gifted for celebrations, wishes for happiness and good fortune, comfort after disasters, recovery from illness, and many other heartfelt purposes. When tragedy strikes, cranes are sent from across Japan as a symbol of hope for restoration and healing. In moments of important competition, such as school tournaments, cranes are gifted by family and teammates as a wish for victory. Senbazuru represents Japan’s enduring spirit of empathy, encouragement, and shared prayer.

To share this beautiful tradition with the world, we are launching the Senbazuru Challenge.

Our goal is simple yet meaningful — together with you, we aim to reach one thousand folded cranes and spread this symbol of hope across borders, cultures, and hearts.

Participation is simple:

Post a photo of your origami crane on Instagram and mention Japan Classic in your caption or tag.

If you are unsure how to mention an account, please refer to the guide below:

〇How to mention on Instagram →

Every purchase from Japan Classic currently includes two sheets of origami paper.

One is for yourself, and the other is for someone important to you.

In addition, anyone who posts their crane and tags Japan Classic will receive a 5% discount coupon, offered as a token of gratitude and as a wish for a little happiness to come your way through this tradition of cranes.

The total number of cranes mentioned and shared will be counted and displayed on this page as it grows.

Once we reach one thousand cranes, we plan to begin something even more special.

Possibilities include donating the proceeds of this challenge to support those in need, or developing a new product that reflects the essence of Japanese craftsmanship — with its revenue dedicated to artisans, creators, and people requiring support.

This project is a collective effort, built together by Japan Classic and everyone around the world who folds and shares their prayer through origami.

We also welcome ideas for what we should do after the challenge is completed.

We would be truly honored to have you participate.