Japanese owl

Japanese owl

In Japan, owls symbolize "blessings and peace" as well as "wisdom." The pronunciation of owl, HUKUROU, implies freedom from toil, longevity, and prosperity—all forms of encouragement and blessing. It's said that the Japanese word for "fortune" (福) is pronounced "HUKU," the same as the first sound of an owl's name. Therefore, besides symbolizing freedom from toil, owls also represent blessings and good fortune. In Hokkaido, the owl is the guardian deity of the Ainu people, representing "good fortune, longevity, and blessings."