Kintarō - Japanese

Deep, deep in a forest, where the trees were very tall, lived a special little boy. The tall trees tickled the big, white clouds in the sky. His name was Kintarō, and people called him the Golden Boy. Kintarō was super strong and super kind. He wore a special red bib. It was a bright, happy red, just like a yummy apple. Kintarō did not live alone. His best friends were all the animals in the woods. There was a big, fuzzy bear who gave the best hugs. There were silly monkeys who loved to swing, swing, swing from the branches. Gentle deer with soft brown eyes were his friends, too. They all played games together from the morning sun to the sleepy moon.

Every single day was a brand new adventure for Kintarō. His most favorite game was sumo wrestling with his friend, the big, fuzzy bear. Tumble, tumble, roll. They would roll and giggle in the soft, green grass. The bear always let Kintarō win with a happy GRRROWL. One sunny day, Kintarō’s little rabbit friends were sad. They could not cross a wide, rushing stream. Swish, swoosh went the fast water. Kintarō saw a giant tree standing nearby. With his super strength, he gave the tree a great big PUSH. The tree fell right over the water. It made a perfect, strong bridge for them. Hop, hop, hop went the happy rabbits, right across the new bridge. They all wiggled their noses to say thank you, Kintarō. Sometimes he would ride on the bear's big back, and they would explore the whole forest together.

A Story for You
The story of Kintarō is told to show everyone a very important thing. Being strong is good, but being kind is even better. Being a good friend to nature is the best thing of all. For many, many years, parents in Japan have shared this happy tale. They hope their children will grow up to be brave and caring, just like Kintarō. His story reminds us to play outside, be a good friend to every animal, and always be strong in our hearts, not just our arms.