red-crowned crane; immortal's crane
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
red-crowned crane; Manchurian crane
Refers specifically to Grus japonensis, a large East Asian crane with a distinctive red patch on its head. It is a symbol of longevity and good fortune in Chinese culture and is a first-class protected species in China.
The red-crowned crane is a first-class nationally protected animal.
Zhalong Nature Reserve is the home of the red-crowned cranes.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
In winter, many red-crowned cranes fly to Japan to spend the winter.
noun
crane kept by immortals in mythology; immortal's crane
literaryIn Chinese mythology and Taoist tradition, cranes are associated with immortals (xian) and symbolize longevity, purity, and transcendence. Often depicted in art as the mount or companion of Daoist immortals, capable of carrying souls to heaven.
Ancient people believed that immortal cranes could guide souls to ascend to heaven.
In this painting, an immortal crane stands beside a pine tree, symbolizing longevity.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
The Taoist priest rode away on an immortal crane, floating gracefully.