Insights
Dove or Crane?
The dove, from the Wado symbol of ‘Dove & Fist’, was first thought to represent a white crane.
It became, more recently when Wado was introduced to Europe, a dove the pagan symbol of
peace. Additionally, the dove, in Japan, represents the god Hachiman who symbolises the
Japanese Martial-arts and War.
Some history relating to the White Crane, which may have influenced this school of thought,
includes: Hakutsuru-Kenpo = Japan. 'White Crane fist art'. The Fukien Shaolin Hakutsuru Style
was the full name given to the Chinese 'White Crane' system developed in the Fukien region and
'imported' into the Shuri area of Okinawa. Also known as Pai-hao-quan, Peh-ho-kuen, Peh-hok,
Bak-hok, Pak-hok, Bai-he-quan, He-quan, Wu-shu-quan (specifically the Five Ancestors Fist), and
Yong Chun (Weng-chun). Hakutsuru-Ryu = Japan. 'White Crane school'. A style of Okinawan
martial-arts with ancestry from Fukien in China. The famous Gokenki studied this system, who
himself was born in Fukien. Who knows? Could the Dove have been a Crane after all?
Gary E Swift (7th Dan) Kyoshi.