Folktales from Japan Season 1 Episode 45 E 45

In this episode of Folktales from Japan, titled E 45, viewers are taken on a journey through three separate traditional tales, each with their unique lesson to impart.

The first story follows the adventures of "The Storyteller and the Jizo Statue," in which a young man named Saburo enlists the help of a storyteller to find a jizo statue that was stolen from his family's grave. Along the way, they encounter a group of thieves who try to steal from them, but the storyteller's cunning and wit allow them to outsmart the robbers and retrieve the statue. This tale emphasizes the power of intelligence and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.

The second story, "Gratitude to a Crane," tells of a young man who saves a crane that had been caught in a trap. The crane transforms into a beautiful maiden, who then marries the young man as a way of thanking him for his kindness. However, when the man's family grows jealous of the crane's good fortune, they force her to reveal her true identity, causing her to fly away and leave the young man alone. This tale emphasizes the importance of gratitude and treating others with kindness and respect.

The final story, "The Priest Who Was a Thief," is a cautionary tale about greed and the dangers of dishonesty. A wicked priest steals a valuable treasure from a wealthy temple, but his treachery is discovered by the gods, who punish him severely for his misdeeds. This story emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in all aspects of life.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to beautiful Japanese animation, traditional music, and atmospheric storytelling that brings these tales to life. Each story is followed by a brief commentary that explains the cultural significance of the fable and highlights the lessons that can be learned from it.

Overall, episode E 45 of Folktales from Japan provides a fascinating and immersive look into traditional Japanese folklore and the timeless wisdom that can be found within these tales. Whether you are a fan of animation or simply enjoy learning about other cultures, this episode is sure to captivate and entertain viewers of all ages.