What is the Japanese symbol of peace mean?

You're likely thinking of the peace symbol, which is not a Japanese symbol. It was designed in 1958 by British designer Gerald Holtom for the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND).

The peace symbol is a combination of the semaphore signals for "N" and "D", standing for "nuclear disarmament". The circle around them represents the planet Earth.

While the peace symbol is often associated with Japan due to its use during the anti-nuclear movement following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, it's not of Japanese origin.

There are, however, several symbols that are considered to be symbols of peace in Japanese culture:

* The dove: Like in many other cultures, the dove is a symbol of peace in Japan. It represents purity, innocence, and new beginnings.

* The lotus flower: The lotus flower grows in muddy water but produces beautiful flowers. This symbolizes overcoming adversity and achieving enlightenment. It's also associated with purity and peace.

* The crane: Cranes are long-lived birds in Japanese culture and are often seen as symbols of peace and longevity. They are also believed to bring good fortune.

So, while the peace symbol is often associated with Japan, it's not a traditional Japanese symbol. There are other symbols within Japanese culture that represent peace.