One-inch boy facts for kids

Issun-bōshi from Otogizōshi

Issun-bōshi, also known as the one-inch boy, is a famous character from a Japanese fairy tale. This classic story tells of a tiny hero who, despite his small size, goes on a big adventure and proves that courage and cleverness can overcome any challenge. It's a tale about finding your place in the world and achieving your dreams.

The Wish for a Child

The story begins with an old couple who lived alone. They had no children, and this made them very sad. The old woman wished for a child, even if it was as tiny as a thumb. She wished and wished, hoping her dream would come true.

A Tiny Miracle

One day, a miracle happened! A baby boy was born to them. But he was incredibly small, only about an inch (2.5 centimetres) tall. Because of his size, they named him Issun-bōshi, which means "one-inch boy." The old couple loved him very much and took great care of their miniature son.

Issun-bōshi's Big Journey

As Issun-bōshi grew older, he realized he would never get any bigger. He was still only one inch tall! He decided it was time to leave home and find his own way in the world. He dreamed of becoming a brave warrior.

Ready for Adventure

To help him on his journey, his parents gave him some special items:

• A sewing needle to use as a sword.
• A soup bowl to serve as his boat.
• Chopsticks to use as oars.

With his tiny but mighty gear, Issun-bōshi set off. He sailed down the river in his bowl-boat, heading towards the big city.

Life in the City

When he arrived in the city, Issun-bōshi looked for a job. He wanted to work for the government. He went to the home of a rich daimyo, who was a powerful lord. The daimyo had a beautiful daughter, a princess.

A Special Job

At first, the daimyo and his family were surprised by Issun-bōshi's tiny size. They didn't think he could do much. But they saw his spirit and decided to give him a job entertaining the princess. Issun-bōshi became her special companion.

Facing a Monster

One day, as Issun-bōshi and the princess were traveling together, a giant monster called an Oni suddenly attacked them! The scary monster quickly swallowed Issun-bōshi whole.

A Hero's Cleverness

Inside the monster's stomach, Issun-bōshi didn't panic. He used his cleverness and his needle-sword. He began to prick the monster from the inside! The monster roared in pain and quickly spat out Issun-bōshi. As the monster ran away, it dropped a magical item: an Uchide's Mallet.

The Magic Mallet and a Happy Ending

The Uchide's Mallet was a special magical hammer. It could grant wishes! As a reward for his incredible bravery, the princess used the mallet. She wished for Issun-bōshi to grow into a normal-sized human.

A Prince and a Princess

With a swing of the mallet, Issun-bōshi grew into a handsome young man! He was no longer one inch tall. Issun-bōshi and the princess remained close friends. Later, they fell in love and got married. They lived happily ever after, proving that even the smallest person can achieve great things.

Images for kids

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  "Issun-bōshi" from Otogizōshi

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  Issun-bōshi going down the river in a bowl