An ancient Japanese legend promises that anyone who folds a thousand origami cranes will be granted a wish such as long life, prosperity and good health, and be known to give a thousand years of happiness and prosperity.It is also used as a matchmaking charm for a Japanese girl when she turns 13 years old. She would make 1000 paper cranes and give it to an admired boy.We think folding 1000 origami cranes is a lot of work, though, and suggest buying the Origami Crane mat instead!