Oto-hime facts for kids
Otohime (Japanese: 乙姫) is a famous princess from Japanese folklore. She is a key character in the well-known folktale of Urashima Tarō. Otohime is the beautiful princess of the amazing undersea palace called Ryūgū-jō.
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Who is Otohime?
Otohime is often described as a kind and graceful princess. She lives in a magical palace deep under the sea. This palace, Ryūgū-jō, is made of sparkling coral and crystal. It is a place where time passes differently than on land. Otohime is known for her hospitality and her connection to the sea.
The Story of Urashima Tarō
Otohime plays a central role in the legend of Urashima Tarō. This story is one of Japan's most beloved folktales. It teaches lessons about time, choices, and the consequences of actions.
Urashima's Journey to the Sea Palace
The story begins with a young fisherman named Urashima Tarō. He saves a small turtle from some cruel children. The grateful turtle later reveals itself to be a magical creature. It offers to take Urashima to the Dragon Palace, Ryūgū-jō. Urashima accepts and rides on the turtle's back deep into the ocean.
Life in Ryūgū-jō
When Urashima arrives at Ryūgū-jō, Princess Otohime welcomes him. She is very kind and treats him like an honored guest. Urashima spends what feels like a few days enjoying the palace. He enjoys feasts, dances, and the company of Otohime and her attendants. The palace is filled with wonders and joy.
The Mysterious Box
After his wonderful stay, Urashima decides he wants to return home. Otohime is sad to see him go. She gives him a special gift: a beautiful, ornate box called a tamatebako. She warns him never to open it. Urashima promises to keep the box closed. He then rides the turtle back to the surface.
Returning Home
When Urashima returns to his village, everything has changed. His home is gone, and no one recognizes him. He learns that hundreds of years have passed on land. His "few days" in Ryūgū-jō were actually centuries. Overwhelmed and confused, Urashima forgets Otohime's warning. He opens the tamatebako.
The Box's Magic
As soon as the box opens, a puff of white smoke comes out. Urashima instantly ages. His hair turns white, and he becomes an old man. The box held the time he had spent away. It also held the youth he had lost. This sad ending shows the magic and mystery of Otohime's world.
What Does Otohime Represent?
Otohime represents the allure and danger of timelessness. She is a symbol of beauty and hospitality. Her palace is a place of wonder and escape. However, it also shows that escaping time has a price. Otohime's gift, the tamatebako, is a powerful symbol. It represents the irreversible nature of time. Her character adds depth to the story. She highlights the contrast between the human world and the magical undersea realm.
