Momotaro

Momotaro is a beloved folk hero in Japanese folklore. The tale begins with an elderly couple who find a giant peach floating down a river. Upon cutting the peach open, they discover a baby boy inside, whom they name Momotaro, meaning "peach boy." Momotaro grows up to be strong and courageous.

When Momotaro learns of the ogres (oni) who plague the land, stealing treasures and causing trouble, he decides to embark on a journey to their island fortress to defeat them. The old woman makes him a special kibi dango, or millet dumplings, for his journey. Along the way, Momotaro encounters a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant, each of whom he befriends by sharing his kibi dango.

United, Momotaro and his animal companions travel to the ogres' island. They fight bravely, with the dog biting the ogres' legs, the monkey attacking with its hands, and the pheasant pecking at their eyes. Momotaro's strength and leadership, combined with the animals' unique abilities, prove too much for the ogres. They are defeated, and Momotaro forces them to surrender their stolen treasures and promise never to harm humans again. Momotaro and his companions return home victorious, bringing back the riches, and they live happily ever after. The story is often interpreted as a tale of bravery, loyalty, and the triumph of good over evil.