In Japanese culture, what does the crane symbolize?

In Japanese culture, the crane is a powerful symbol associated primarily with longevity and new life. This symbolism is rooted in the belief that cranes can live for a very long time, often cited as living up to a thousand years. Thus, they encapsulate ideas of a long, prosperous life. Additionally, cranes are often seen as harbingers of happiness and good fortune, particularly in the context of weddings and other celebrations, where they signify hope and renewal.

Cranes are often intricately linked with the concept of new beginnings, representing the start of a new stage in life or journey. This connection reflects broader themes in Japanese art and folklore, where the crane is not just an emblem of physical longevity but also symbolizes spiritual growth and the cycles of life.

While other options represent different aspects of cultural significance, they do not capture the deep-rooted association of the crane with longevity and new life as strongly as option B does.