昔話 (mukashibanashi): folktale, fairy tale

 

1. Today's Japanese words

* 昔話 (mukashibanashi): folktale, fairy tale (moo-kah-shi-bah-nah-shi)

* お爺さん (ojīsan): old man (oh-jee-san)

* お婆さん (obāsan): old woman (oh-baa-san)

* 桃太郎 (Momotarō): Peach Boy (moh-mo-tah-roh) - a famous folktale character

* 鶴 (tsuru): crane (tsoo-roo)

* 伝承 (denshou): tradition, passing down (of stories)

* 教訓 (kyoukun): lesson, moral

* 文化 (bunka): culture

* 空想 (kuusou): imagination

* 幸福 (koufuku): happiness (koh-foo-ku)

* 魔法 (mahou): magic (mah-hoo)

* 悪者 (akudoumono): villain (ah-koo-doh-moh-no)

* 山 (yama): mountain (yama)

* 川 (kawa): river (kah-wa)

* 昔々 (mukashimukashi): once upon a time (moo-kah-shi moo-kah-shi)

2. Today's topic

Japanese fairy tales

Japanese fairy tales, also known as folktales or legends, are a rich treasure trove of stories that have been passed down for generations. These tales offer a glimpse into Japanese culture, values, and beliefs. They often feature themes of good versus evil, filial piety, and the importance of nature.

Some of the most famous Japanese fairy tales include:

* Momotaro, the Peach Boy: The story of a brave boy born from a giant peach who defeats a band of ogres.

* The Crane Wife: A tale about a kind man who befriends a crane, who transforms into a beautiful woman.

* The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter: The story of an old bamboo cutter who discovers a tiny princess inside a glowing bamboo stalk.

* **Rich Tapestry of Traditions:** Unlike Western fairy tales with a focus on royalty, Japanese tales encompass a wider range of characters, from brave samurai to ordinary villagers.

* **Supernatural Elements:** Yokai (monsters) and spirits are prevalent, reflecting a belief in the unseen world.

* **Moral Lessons:** Many stories impart virtues like respect for elders, perseverance, and living in harmony with nature.

* **Folktales vs. Fairy Tales:** The line between Japanese folktales and fairy tales can blur. Folktales often feature historical figures or local legends.

3- Today’s news

Shohei Ohtani shares a photo of his new wife on social media. She's a former pro basketball player

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15199395

Shohei Ohtani has revealed the identity of his new wife — a former professional basketball player — with a photo of the couple on social media.

Opinion: Momotaro art project shows the uniqueness and universality of all cultures

The Momotaro story goes something like this: An elderly couple finds a giant peach drifting down a river and cuts it open to find a baby inside. The baby is named Momotaro -- Momo is "peach" and Taro is a popular boy's name. He grows up and sets out to confront misbehaving local ogres. On his adventure, the hero meets three animals, a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant, and gives each a kibidango dumpling to team up to defeat the ogres.