Fukuro, Japanese Stone Owl Statue

In Japanese mythology and folklore, owls play a fascinating and somewhat dualistic role. Depending on the historical period, regional beliefs, and symbolic interpretation, owls symbolize wisdom, divine protection, and prosperity. The Japanese word for owl, Fukurō (梟), contains an interesting wordplay that refers to luck. Fuku (福) can mean luck or prosperity. Kurō (苦労) means difficulties or suffering. Therefore, Fukurō can be interpreted as the beginning of happiness and the end of adversity. For this reason, owl figurines like these are widely used in Japan as protective luck-bringers.