Yokai Tales Gallery

One-inch warrior of Naniwa who navigated the river in a rice bowl and earned court renown with a sewing needle.

One of Japan's best-known folktales, Issunboushi ("The One-Inch Boy") tells the story of a boy born in Osaka who was only one sun (about 3 cm) tall. Traveling to the capital in a rice bowl that floated down the river, he eventually defeated an oni and was rewarded with an important position at court. Similar legends are found throughout Japan.

Osaka