Once upon a time, there was an old couple who lived in a small house in the countryside. Thus begins the story of the grateful crane. Through graceful illustrations, we witness the rescue of the injured bird and the appearance of a mysterious young girl who changes the lives of the elderly couple and celebrates the beginning of the new year with them. One of the most popular Japanese folktales is presented here as a picture book, complete with origami paper and folding instructions, inviting readers to fold the elegant bird in traditional Japanese style. Notably, the craftsmanship of this book is of high quality. This lovingly illustrated picture book poetically immerses children and adults in the world of ancient Japan, which was rich in fairy tales centered around the archetype of the old childless couple.