Last Wednesday, students at Lexis Byron Bay spent the afternoon learning how to make origami at a workshop led by Hitomi and Chika.
The Origin of Origami and Why People Practice It in Japan
Origami, the art of folding paper into shapes, has its roots in Japan, where it began during the Edo period (17th century). While paper was introduced from China, it was in Japan that paper folding became an important cultural art. Early on, origami was used in ceremonies, like folding paper cranes for weddings to symbolize good fortune.
Over time, origami became a popular hobby. People in Japan practice it because it requires focus, patience, and precision. It also connects them to traditional values. For example, the crane is a symbol of peace and longevity. In Japanese folklore, folding 1,000 cranes is believed to grant a wish, a story famously linked to Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who folded cranes during her illness after the Hiroshima bombing.
Origami is taught in schools and enjoyed by people of all ages in Japan. It’s more than just a craft—it’s a way to express creativity, preserve traditions, and even solve real-world problems in fields like design and technology.
In summary, origami in Japan is a meaningful part of culture that teaches patience, creativity, and connection to nature, making it both a cherished tradition and a useful art form.
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