Japan
Traditional FolktaleMomotaro (Peach Boy)
A beloved Japanese folktale about a boy born from a giant peach who sets out with his animal friends to defeat the ogres of Onigashima.
A child-friendly retelling
An elderly couple finds a giant peach floating down the river. Inside is a baby boy they name Momotaro, or Peach Boy. When he grows up, he travels to Onigashima with a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant, sharing his food and courage with each new friend.
A note about the tradition
Momotaro is one of Japan's best-known folktales. Details change across regions and retellings, but the story often celebrates courage, cooperation, and generous friendship.