Folk Legends
Momotaro
Momotaro set off in high spirits. At the edge of the village he met a dog. "Momotaro, where are you going? What are you carrying in that bag?" asked the dog. "I'm off to Onigashima," replied Momotaro, "and I'm carrying the most delicious millet dumplings in all Japan. If you help me drive away the ogres I'll give you one." The hungry dog gobbled down a dumpling and became Momotaro's steadfast companion. Soon they came across a pheasant. In return for a tasty dumpling, the pheasant also agreed to join Momotaro's party. Next they met a monkey who was also persuaded to join them in exchange for a millet dumpling.