The Tale of Momotaro

Arriving in Okayama the morning after the magical night at Himeji Castle, I felt a fresh sense of excitement. Okayama, with its blend of modern calm and deep historical roots, was like opening a new chapter in my journey. As the train pulled into the station, I noticed hints of the city’s beloved legend everywhere—from statues to sweet shops—reminding visitors of one of Japan’s most cherished folk heroes: Momotaro.

Strolling through the city, I visited the famous Korakuen Garden and glimpsed Okayama Castle’s striking silhouette across the river. Yet, what truly set the city’s spirit apart was its connection to the Momotaro tale.Momotaro, or “Peach Boy,” is a folk tale that has been passed down for generations in Japan, with its roots especially strong in Okayama. The story goes:

An elderly couple lived alone and wished dearly for a child. One day, the old woman was washing clothes by the river when a giant peach floated downstream. Curious, she brought it home, and as she and her husband prepared to cut it open, the peach split, and out leapt a healthy baby boy. The couple named him Momotaro, meaning “Peach Boy,” and raised him as their son.

As he grew, Momotaro became strong and courageous. Hearing of ogres (oni) on a distant island who were terrorizing the land, he set off to defeat them and bring peace to the region. He received special dumplings (kibi dango) from his adoptive mother and, as he journeyed, shared them with a talking dog, monkey, and pheasant he met along the way. These loyal animal friends joined Momotaro’s quest.

Together, they sailed to the ogres’ island, worked as a team, and confronted the mighty oni. Thanks to their courage and cleverness, Momotaro and his companions triumphed, capturing the ogres’ treasure and bringing it home to Okayama. The city’s people rejoiced, embracing Momotaro as a guardian of their land.

Okayama: The Heart of the Legend
Walking through contemporary Okayama, I saw Momotaro’s legacy everywhere—a statue of Peach Boy with his companions stands proudly in front of the station, and “kibi dango” dumplings are a local sweet found in every souvenir shop. The story’s themes of kindness, courage, and friendship seem stitched into the city’s fabric.