Kintaro, the Mountain Friend

In a cottage high in the Ashigara Mountains, Kintaro lived with his mother. He was unusually strong, but his happiest hours were spent exploring the forest and listening to its animal voices.

Bear, Deer, Monkey and Hare became his closest friends. They wandered over ferny paths together. Kintaro learned when each friend needed a rest, a hand, or simply someone willing to listen.

One sunny morning, they found a clearing sprinkled with flowers. Bear patted the soft ground flat for a game. Deer offered to judge, and the others agreed to stop if anyone felt uncomfortable.

Monkey and Hare tried a gentle balancing contest. Hare hopped sideways; Monkey wobbled and laughed. Kintaro cheered both of them, and the prize was a handful of berries to share.

After the games, they headed home and reached a rushing stream. The usual stepping stones were covered. Little Hare drew back, and even Bear could not find a safe crossing for everyone.

Kintaro noticed a great fallen tree beside the bank. With his remarkable strength, he shifted it across the stream. The animals crossed carefully, one by one, while he steadied their broad wooden bridge.

A traveller had watched from the forest path. He was Sadamitsu, looking for a young helper willing to learn. He admired Kintaro's strength, and admired still more his care for the smallest animal.

Sadamitsu spoke with Kintaro's mother and offered him training in the town. Mother and son asked many questions before agreeing. Kintaro promised to write home and to use his strength thoughtfully.

At dawn, the animals gathered to say goodbye. Bear brought berries, Deer flowers, Monkey a smooth stone, and Hare a leaf. Kintaro packed their little gifts beside his mother's carefully folded clothes.

Kintaro grew into a trusted helper, building, learning and protecting others. When he could, he brought his mother to a comfortable home. He always remembered the mountain friends who had taught him kindness.