Japanese folklore facts for kids
Japanese folklore is a collection of traditional stories, beliefs, and customs from Japan. These tales have been passed down through many generations. They are often deeply connected to Shinto and Buddhism, which are the two main religions in Japan.
Japanese folklore is full of amazing characters and situations. You'll find funny stories, strange adventures, and sometimes even a little bit of sadness. Many tales feature supernatural creatures. These include kami (gods and spirits), yōkai (monster-spirits), onryō (ghosts), and powerful dragons.
You'll also meet animals with special powers, like the clever kitsune (fox), the playful tanuki (raccoon dog), the shy mujina (badger), and the magical bakeneko (transforming cat).
Types of Japanese Folktales
Japanese folklore stories are often grouped into different types based on their themes. This helps people understand the kind of story they are about to hear.
- "Mukashibanashi" are tales from a long, long time ago. They often start with phrases like "Once upon a time..."
- "Namidabanashi" are sad stories that might make you feel emotional.
- "Obakebanashi" are exciting ghost stories, perfect for a spooky evening.
- "Ongaeshibanashi" are stories about kindness and how good deeds are rewarded.
- "Tonchibanashi" are witty stories that show off cleverness and smart thinking.
- "Waraibanashi" are funny stories designed to make you laugh.
- "Yokubaribanashi" are stories about greed and what happens when someone wants too much.
Famous Japanese Folktales
Many Japanese folktales are well-known and loved by people of all ages. Here are some of the most famous ones:
- Kintarō, the Golden Boy: This is the story of a boy with superhuman strength who grew up in the mountains. He was friends with animals and became a great warrior.
- Momotarō, the Peach Boy: A boy born from a giant peach goes on an adventure to defeat ogres with his animal companions: a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant.
- Urashima Tarō: This tale tells of a fisherman who rescues a turtle. He is then taken to an underwater palace, where he spends what feels like a few days, but turns out to be hundreds of years on land.
- Issun-Bōshi, the One-inch Boy: A tiny boy sets out on a journey to the capital to seek his fortune. He uses his small size and quick wit to overcome challenges and eventually finds happiness.
- Tamamo-no-Mae: This is the story of an evil fox-woman who was a powerful kitsune that could transform into a beautiful woman. She caused trouble for emperors and was eventually defeated.
- Shita-kiri Suzume: This story is about a kind old man and a sparrow whose tongue is cut off by a cruel old woman. The sparrow later rewards the kind man and punishes the greedy woman.
- Kiyohime: A tale of a woman who falls in love with a monk. When he rejects her, her anger and sorrow transform her into a dragon, seeking revenge.
- Banchō Sarayashiki: A famous ghost story about Okiku, a servant girl who is wrongly accused of breaking one of ten precious plates. Her ghost haunts the well, counting the plates.
- Yotsuya Kaidan: Another well-known ghost story, this one features Oiwa, a woman who is betrayed and murdered. Her vengeful ghost returns to haunt those who wronged her.
- Kachi-kachi Yama: This story features an evil raccoon-dog who harms an old woman. A heroic rabbit then helps the old man get revenge on the raccoon-dog through a series of clever tricks.
- Hanasaka Jiisan: This is the story of a kind old man who has a magical dog. The dog helps him make withered trees bloom, bringing joy and prosperity, while a greedy neighbor tries to copy him with bad results.
Other pages
Images for kids
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A raccoon dog half transformed into a cauldron hangs from a jizai kagi hook over an irori hearth (scene from the tale Bunbuku Chagama). (c. 1840s, School of Hokusai)
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Kuniyoshi Utagawa, The Ghosts, c. 1850.
See also
In Spanish: Folclore de Japón para niños
