Philosophy
Philosophy
At the heart of the Three Cranes Association are the connections between people and cultures. We promote intercultural exchange as a bridge between European and Japanese culture. In doing so, we convey and strengthen Japanese culture and society and encourage exchange with Switzerland, guided by the values of longevity (長寿), harmonious relationship (和合), and beauty (美).
Through personal exchanges with people in Japan, we develop projects that connect ideas from traditional culture with the current social, technical, and ecological pursuits of contemporary life. Our goal is to strengthen fragile societies in the long term and to foster intercultural dialogue with Switzerland.
Guided by the three fundamental values symbolized by the crane in Japan, we strive to provide continuous support in the areas of craftsmanship, textiles, food, and art. We are also committed to education and instruction to promote the mental and physical health of individuals, thus ensuring a vibrant society and culture for future generations.
Longevity 長寿
As early as the 14th century, the crane represented a good omen for longevity in the Nō theater through the play „Tsurukame“ (鶴亀). The projects of the Three Cranes Association aim to plan for the long term and have a sustainable impact. We are dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and strengthening of local and traditional craftsmanship in Japan. In doing so, we revitalize artistic and social-historical values and use them meaningfully in everyday life.
We promote the sustainability and longevity of Japanese cultural heritage, such as ideas, values, traditions, practices, and cultural objects, by integrating them into today’s societies in Japan and Europe.
Harmonious Relationship 和合
A pair of cranes remains together for life and symbolizes a harmonious relationship in Japan, characterized by mutual appreciation and honest connection. The promotion and strengthening of relationships are central to the philosophy of the Three Cranes Association, as they form the basis of a healthy, vibrant society. In Japan, we create places and activities, especially for fragile groups, where people can connect and find joy in living and working together. This harmonious interaction links people and generations, connects individuals with their natural and social environments, bridges cultures, and extends from the past into the future.
Beauty 美
The crane has traditionally been established as a symbol of beauty in Japan and has been appreciated as a motif in craftsmanship and other art forms for centuries. The Three Cranes Association believes that aesthetics have a positive impact on people and their environment. Beauty in clothing, food, and living is not only external but also directly influences one’s inner feelings and actions. Beauty signifies respect for society and oneself and celebrates the transience of earthly life in Japan. It shapes the life and identity of an individual, which is why we promote this cultural asset and want to share the joy it brings.
The crane has traditionally been established as a symbol of beauty in Japan and has been appreciated as a motif in craftsmanship and other art forms for centuries. The Three Cranes Association believes that aesthetics have a positive impact on people and their environment. Beauty in clothing, food, and living is not only external but also directly influences one’s inner feelings and actions. Beauty signifies respect for society and oneself and celebrates the transience of earthly life in Japan. It shapes the life and identity of an individual, which is why we promote this cultural asset and want to share the joy it brings.