Kasado and Urashima Taro - A Japanese Fairy Tale About Family and Spirits

Brief Description: The story is about a family that, through kindness and hospitality, sheltered spirits under their umbrella. This Japanese fairy tale teaches respect for traditions, helping others, and that goodness always returns.

In a small village surrounded by rice fields lived a family: the father named Kasado, his wife, and their son Urashima Taro. They were poor but always ready to help those in need. Their house was old, and the only valuable item was a large, beautiful umbrella that the father had made himself. He carefully preserved it and used it only during heavy rains.

One evening, when the sky darkened and a heavy downpour began, there was a knock at their house's door. The father opened it and saw two strangers — men in simple, soaked clothes.

— Excuse us for disturbing you, — one of them said. — We are traveling, but this rain caught us off guard. Could you shelter us for at least one night?

Kasado replied without hesitation:

— Of course, come in. We are not wealthy, but we will share what we have.

The wife served them hot tea, and Urashima Taro spread out mats for the guests. During the night, the father noticed that the guests were not sleeping at all. They were sitting by the window and whispering. Curious, he quietly approached to overhear their conversation:

— These people are very kind, — said the first spirit. — They have taken us in without knowing who we are. — We must thank them for their hospitality, — replied the second. — But how?

In the morning, the guests thanked the family and said:

— Your umbrella is very beautiful. We have noticed how carefully you take care of it. Let us decorate it in gratitude for your kindness.

With these words, they took the umbrella and disappeared. The family was puzzled, but the father decided that the guests could not have bad intentions. That very night, while everyone slept, their umbrella returned to the house. However, it was now adorned with patterns that glowed in the dark like stars. The father looked at it and exclaimed:

— It's a miracle! Now our umbrella not only protects us from the rain but also brings light!

The family continued to live in the village, and people from all around came to see the magical umbrella. Each time the family shared the umbrella with others, their home was filled with wealth and joy.

— Kindness comes back manifold, — Kasado said to his son. — Always remember this, Urashima Taro.

Thus, the Kasado family became known throughout the region as an example of hospitality and kindness. And their magical umbrella continued to serve the people, illuminating the way even in the darkest night.

Moral of the Legend:

The fairy tale teaches that good deeds return multiple times. Respecting others and being willing to help make the world brighter and better, like the magical light on Kasado's umbrella.

Questions for Discussion:

• Why did the Kasado family decide to shelter the strangers?
• How did the spirits thank the family for their kindness?
• What does this story teach about hospitality and helping others?