In a small village in Japan, surrounded by green mountains and clear rivers, lived an old man and his wife. They lived a simple and happy life, though they often felt sad because they had no children.

One bright day, the old woman went to the river to wash clothes. The river flowed crystal clear, and birds sang beautifully. While she was busy washing, she suddenly saw something big floating down the river.

Old Woman: "Oh my! What is that? It looks like... a giant peach!"

Curious, the old woman pulled the peach to the riverbank and carried it home. She was very excited, thinking her husband would be surprised.

When the old man returned from the fields and saw the giant peach, he was amazed.

Old Man: "Wow, dear! Where did you find such a big peach?" Old Woman: "I found it floating in the river. It looks like a gift from the gods. Let’s cut it open and see what’s inside."

When they cut the peach open, they were astonished! From inside the peach came a healthy baby boy, smiling sweetly.

Momotaro: "Hello, Father... Mother..."

The old couple was deeply moved. They believed the child was a blessing and named him Momotaro, meaning "Peach Boy." From that moment on, they raised Momotaro with love and care.

Years passed. Momotaro grew into a strong, kind, and brave young man. One day, he heard news about a group of Oni (giant demons) who lived on Oni Island. They often attacked villages and stole treasures.

Momotaro: "Father, Mother, I want to go to Oni Island and defeat the Oni! I can't let them keep hurting people."

The old couple was shocked to hear Momotaro’s intentions. Though worried, they knew their son was brave.

Old Woman: "Alright, Momotaro. But take this food with you. I made kibi dango (millet dumplings) especially for you. Share them with any friends you meet on the way."

Momotaro: "Thank you, Mother! I will return victorious!"

On his journey to Oni Island, Momotaro met a dog.

Dog: "Hey, Peach Boy! Where are you going?" Momotaro: "I’m going to Oni Island to defeat the demons." Dog: "If you give me a kibi dango, I’ll join you and help!"

Momotaro smiled and gave the dog one dumpling. The dog happily joined him. Soon after, they met a monkey.

Monkey: "Hey, Peach Boy! Where are you headed?" Momotaro: "I’m going to fight the Oni on Oni Island." Monkey: "Then give me a kibi dango, and I’ll come along too!"

Momotaro gladly shared another dumpling, and the monkey joined them. Along the way, they met a pheasant.

Pheasant: "Where are you going, Peach Boy?" Momotaro: "I’m going to fight the Oni on Oni Island!" Pheasant: "Give me a kibi dango, and I’ll fly ahead to help you."

Momotaro gave his last dumpling, and the pheasant joined the group. Now the four of them continued the journey together.

After days of traveling, they reached Oni Island. The Oni’s giant fortress loomed over the cliffs. The pheasant flew ahead to scout.

Pheasant: "Momotaro, the Oni are having a feast inside! I’ll distract them from above."

Momotaro: "That’s great! Dog, Monkey, let’s attack!"

A fierce battle began. The pheasant swooped down and pecked at the Oni’s eyes, causing confusion. The dog ran and bit the Oni’s legs, while the monkey jumped around swiftly, distracting them.

Momotaro faced the Oni leader, who was much bigger and stronger. But Momotaro stood his ground.

Oni Leader: "How dare you challenge us, Peach Boy! You’ll regret this!"

Momotaro: "I won’t let you hurt people anymore!"

With incredible strength, Momotaro defeated the Oni leader. The other Oni trembled with fear and surrendered. They promised never to bother the villages again.

Momotaro: "Then return all the treasure you stole!"

The Oni immediately returned everything they had taken. Momotaro and his friends returned home triumphantly. When they reached the village, the people cheered for them.

The old man and woman shed tears of joy.

Old Woman: "Momotaro, you’re truly a hero!" Old Man: "We’re so proud of you, my son."

Momotaro: "I only won because my friends helped me. Together, we’re stronger!"

At last, the village was peaceful and prosperous again. Momotaro, the old couple, and all the villagers lived happily. The dog, monkey, and pheasant remained Momotaro’s loyal friends forever.

THE END