Kintaro - A Japanese Fairy Tale About a Boy with the Strength of a Hero

Brief Description: Kintaro is a Japanese folk tale about a boy with incredible strength who grew up in the forest among animals. His friendship, kindness, and desire to help others made him a true hero. This story teaches children the power of the spirit and mutual assistance.

Long ago in the mountains lived a woman who one day found an unusual boy with golden-toned skin. She took him in and named him Kintaro, which means "Golden Boy." The boy grew up in the forest, where every day he learned to live among nature, and his strength amazed even the strongest beasts. Over time, he became friends with all the animals: bears, rabbits, monkeys, and deer.

Kintaro never harmed the weak and always helped his friends. When a monkey got stuck in thick branches, he effortlessly pushed apart the trees to free him. One day, a bear fell ill, and the boy took care of him until he recovered. His kindness and incredible strength made him beloved by all the forest inhabitants.

One day, the animals suggested holding a competition. Everyone gathered in a clearing, and the bear said with a smile:

— Kintaro, let's see who is stronger: you or all of us together! — I'm ready! But be careful, I won't give you any slack, — replied the boy with a mischievous smile.

The animals grabbed a thick rope while Kintaro took hold of the other end. He pulled so hard that the bear fell, the monkey released the rope, and the rabbits scattered in all directions. Everyone laughed loudly, acknowledging that Kintaro truly had incredible strength.

Bald came the day that changed the boy's life. A storm broke out in the forest, lightning struck a dry tree, and a fire began to engulf the entire forest. The animals panicked and ran away, but Kintaro remained calm. He uprooted a huge tree with its roots and blocked the path of the fire, stopping the flames. When it was all over, his friends said to him gratefully:

— You saved us, Kintaro! We will never forget your kindness and bravery.

One day, a samurai named Sakada Kintsuna came into the forest. He noticed how the boy was lifting huge stones and was impressed:

— Such strength can only belong to a hero. What is your name, boy? — he asked. — My name is Kintaro, and I live here with my mother and friends, — he replied.

The samurai talked with Kintaro for a long time and learned about his life. In the end, he said:

— The forest is not the right place for you. Your strength should serve the people. I suggest you come with me to the capital, where you can become a great warrior.

Kintaro looked at his mother, who smiled and said:

— Go, my son. This is your destiny. We are proud of you.

After saying goodbye to the animals, the boy set off for the capital. He became a student of Sakada Kintsuna and quickly mastered martial arts. Kintaro used his strength and knowledge to protect the weak and fight for justice. His name became a symbol of courage and kindness.

Moral of the Story:

The tale teaches that strength is not only a physical ability but also the ability to help others. A true hero is someone who uses their talents for the benefit of others.

Questions for Discussion:

• What actions did Kintaro take to earn the respect of the animals?
• Why did the samurai want to take Kintaro with him?
• What does this story teach about friendship and mutual assistance?