Despite its rather ancient history, in Japan, unlike many other countries, there is no official animal symbol. Most likely, the wise Japanese, observing the world around them for centuries, were unable to choose a specific character.
Instructions
Step 1
Despite the fact that Japan does not have a single animal symbol, this does not prevent the people of the eastern country from having their own beliefs and deifying animals that are close to them in their liking and spirit. Although even here it is impossible to say for sure who the Japanese prefer. Someone believes that the symbol of Japan is the green kinji pheasant, others claim that it is the Japanese tanko stork, while for others the national dignity of the country is the tanuki raccoon dog.
Step 2
Japanese stork tanko
The locals chose this peaceful and graceful bird for worship, quite possibly for a speck of red, round, located on its head. For the Japanese, the red circle has long been associated with the solar circle depicted on the hinomaru - the state flag of the Land of the Rising Sun. Considering that storks are ubiquitous here and often nest in gardens and backyards, it makes sense that the population made the tanko their symbol. The Japanese custom of making paper storks (origami) for good luck is widely known.
Step 3
Green pheasant kinji
Another national animal of the country, and also a bird, is the green pheasant. The Japanese Ornithological Society honored this "important" bird at its 1947 annual meeting. The pheasant was chosen as a symbol for his popularity, active participation in folk legends and fairy tales. In addition, the bird can often be found in the vastness of the country.
Step 4
Raccoon dog tanuki
The population has a special attitude towards tanuki, warm and friendly. It is considered not only a symbolic animal, but also a talisman that brings happiness and prosperity. The raccoon dog, like the kinji, often appears in folklore, but as a werewolf, or a relative of a demon, not inferior in cunning to a fox. However, despite the "dark" side, the animal remained a favorite hero of fairy tales and was liked by the Japanese, and tanuki figurines of various sizes and colors can be seen literally on every corner and purchased at any souvenir shop.
Step 5
In addition to the above animals, there are many more birds, fish and animals, which are considered amulets and symbols that bring health and money, happiness and prosperity, but they are no longer so popular among the population and rather convey local omens and omens. In addition, from ancient times, the Japanese are associated all over the world with a fictional living creature - the dragon. In the land of the rising sun, as in most other eastern states, this fantastic animal symbolizes the imperial power, as well as spirit, wisdom and strength.
