Olympic Origami: Tokyo Volunteers Welcome Visitors Into The Fold

https://www.npr.org/sections/tokyo-olympics-live-updates/2021/07/22/ [login to see] /at-the-tokyo-olympics-several-volunteers-take-it-on-themselves-to-create-origami
At an Olympics where journalists are largely sealed off from the host country due to strict COVID-19 protocols, a group of young Japanese volunteers is offering tiny presents that showcase an art form of their country.

In a corner of the convention center where journalists from around the world are working, the volunteers diligently fold origami paper into beautiful and elaborate designs.

A handwritten sign in front says, "TAKE FREE." On the table top are creations such as handmade multicolored flowers, paper sushi rolls and small boxes. There are paper cranes of many shapes and sizes – which are traditionally given to sick people to wish them well.

"It's very natural for us to get skilled in origami in early stages, like maybe when you are in kindergarten or maybe when you are in elementary school, you have so many opportunities to learn it," says volunteer Chie Kitta.

These young women work at the desk in the press center that helps journalists get their temporary offices set up.