Issun Bshi – Icinori

This classic Japanese fairy tale tells the story of Issun Bshi, the tiny son of an old, long childless couple.

Tiny and bravethese are the two most striking characteristics of Issun Bshi. His mother had longed to have a child for so many years that she finally added even if it is a very small one to her wish. When the elderly couple did in fact bear a son, he turned out to be only one inch high. He was thus called Issun Bshi, Japanese for one-inch boy.

Although his parents raised him very lovingly, Issun Bshi realised one day that he would not grow any taller. He then left his home to set off on a journeyto find his place in the world. Because he saw himself as a sword fighter, a samurai, he made sure to take along the right equipment: a needle was his sword, a soup bowl was his boat, and a chopstick was its rudder.

As in any proper fairy tale, Issun Bshi is tested in several adventures. He handles himself so bravely that, in the end, he is rewarded with just the right princess.

Best suits 3-5 year olds