Since 1958, seven years after its debut flight, Japan Airlines (JAL) has been synonymous with the iconic
tsurumaru
— the elegant “crane circle” emblem. This logo, featuring a stylized crane with outstretched wings forming a circle, symbolizes resilience and unwavering loyalty, values deeply embedded in JAL’s heritage. After a brief absence, the beloved crane returned in 2011 following the airline’s strategic reorganization and has graced JAL aircraft ever since.
Japan Airlines—often referred to as Nikko—has recently introduced a refreshed suite of inflight amenities, each thoughtfully crafted around the timeless tsurumaru motif.
To reinterpret these elements for the contemporary traveler, JAL partnered with acclaimed Japanese design studio Nendo. Their vision: infuse both domestic and international cabins with a sophisticated, modern aesthetic while honoring the airline’s rich cultural legacy. Nendo drew inspiration from the geometric elegance of the origami paper crane—a universal symbol of peace, hope, and Japanese hospitality—integrating its form as a central design element.
The result is a cohesive collection: blankets, napkins, and table linens discreetly showcase the crane’s head as a minimalist red triangle, while subtle red tags accent pillows, sleepwear, eye masks, slippers, and cutlery wraps. Delicate origami crane patterns are etched across trays, menu cards, and amenity pouches, creating a sense of refined unity throughout the inflight experience.
Nendo’s palette employs seven distinct shades of grey: First Class features a deep, tranquil grey for a serene ambiance, Economy embraces the lightest tone for airy comfort, while Business Class is adorned with a balanced mid-grey, reflecting understated luxury. Essential items—such as face masks, earplugs, tissues, and dental kits—are presented in a neutral, versatile grey, ensuring harmony across all cabins.
During our recent flight, we found Nendo’s curated amenities not only visually striking but also highly collectible—testament to JAL’s commitment to blending Japanese artistry with world-class comfort for discerning travelers in 2025.
