Folktales from Japan Season 1 Episode 116 E 116
- June 28, 2014
- 24 min
Folktales from Japan is a captivating animated series that presents a wide array of traditional Japanese folk tales. Each episode is filled with enchanting stories, fantastical creatures, and valuable life lessons. The show brings to life the rich cultural heritage of Japan through its beautifully animated visuals and compelling narratives.
In episode 116 titled "E 116," viewers are introduced to yet another captivating folk tale from Japan. Set in a time long ago, the story unfolds against the backdrop of a picturesque village nestled amidst lush green hills. The local people are known for their hard work and ingenious ways of overcoming challenges, and it is within this context that the episode's tale unfurls.
The episode begins by introducing us to two of the village's most renowned inhabitants - an old couple named Ojiichan and Obaachan. Ojiichan, an elderly man with a long white beard, is known for his sharp intellect and deep wisdom. Obaachan, his equally elderly wife, is known for her kind heart and nurturing nature. Together, they embody the timeless values of love, compassion, and resilience that have been passed down for generations.
The episode centers around a unique problem that has befallen the village. Each year during the harvest season, a group of pesky and mischievous creatures known as "Tsukumogami" causes havoc. These Tsukumogami are actually household objects that have gained supernatural abilities after reaching a hundred years of age. Possessing emotions and a desire for mischief, they come to life and wreak havoc during the harvest time.
This year, however, the number of Tsukumogami has multiplied, making their pranks and tomfoolery more troublesome than ever before. As a result, the village is on the verge of losing its precious crops, which are essential for their survival during the harsh winter months.
With the villagers growing desperate, they turn to Ojiichan and Obaachan for help. The couple, renowned for their wisdom, comes up with a plan to tackle the troublesome Tsukumogami. Knowing that the objects come alive due to their age, they propose a solution that involves respecting the objects' longevity rather than discarding them.
Ojiichan and Obaachan gather the villagers together and explain their plan. They ask everyone to take a moment and reflect on the objects they possess, expressing gratitude for the service these objects have provided over the years. In doing so, they encourage the villagers to establish a loving bond with their possessions, rather than seeing the objects as mere commodities.
Throughout the episode, viewers witness heartwarming scenes of villagers expressing their gratitude towards their cherished objects. Whether it be a worn-out broom, a creaky old door, or a rusty teapot, the villagers show deep appreciation and affection for these seemingly inanimate items. Their love and gratitude transform the Tsukumogami, taming their mischief and bringing them back into harmony with the villagers.
As the harvest season approaches, the Tsukumogami, under the kind influence of the villagers' affection, assist in completing the harvest rather than causing havoc. What unfolds is a beautiful demonstration of the power of love, gratitude, and compassion. Through their deep connection with the objects around them, the villagers learn an invaluable lesson about the importance of appreciating what they have, treating objects with respect, and fostering harmony within their community.
In episode 116 of Folktales from Japan, viewers are reminded of the profound wisdom embedded within Japanese folklore. This heartwarming tale teaches us to look beyond the surface of objects, fostering a deep appreciation for the things we possess and cultivating a connection with the world around us. As the episode concludes, viewers are left with a renewed sense of gratitude and a desire to nurture the relationships they have with their cherished possessions.