Kaguya Hime

A girl raised in a humble home grows up to be a wise and renowned beauty but must return to her real home on the moon.

Traditional Japanese Literature features a rich array of works dating from the very beginnings of the Japanese written language through the evolution of Japan's noted aristocratic court and warrior cultures. It contains stunning new translations of such canonical texts as The Tales of the Heike as well as works and genres previously ignored by scholars and unknown to general readers.

In a film eight years in making, Studio Ghibli’s cofounder Isao Takahata tells the untold story of Princess Kaguya. An old bamboo cutter and his wife find a tiny girl inside a bamboo shoot and raise her. The mysterious little princess grows rapidly into a young lady, enthralling everyone who encounters her–but ultimately, she must face her fate. This book captures the breathtaking art of the film from conception to production, and features commentary, interviews, and an in-depth look at the production process. “Every frame is worthy of being its own painting.” –Joe Hisaishi, film’s composer

A new simplified edition translated by Don Sanderson. The original three-volume work, first published in 1979, has been revised specially as a single volume paperback which concentrates on the development of Japanese literature.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the mystical world of Japanese folklore with Folk Tales from Japan: Timeless Stories of Courage, Magic, and Adventure for All Ages. This enchanting collection brings to life the beloved tales that have captivated hearts and minds for generations. Meet the Heroes and Heroines of Ancient Japan: Momotaro (Peach Boy): A valiant hero born from a peach who battles fearsome ogres to protect his village. Urashima Taro: A humble fisherman who travels to a magical underwater kingdom and discovers the mystery of time. Princess Kaguya: A radiant moon princess found in a bamboo stalk, whose beauty and wisdom are unmatched. The Grateful Crane: A poignant tale of love and gratitude between a kind man and a magical crane. Issun-boshi (One-Inch Boy): A tiny but brave warrior who proves that size does not define one’s valor. The Tongue-Cut Sparrow: A story of kindness rewarded and greed punished through the bond between a kind man and a little sparrow. The Gallant Jiraiya: A noble warrior with the power of toad magic, who battles the sinister Orochimaru. The Farmer and the Badger: A tale of justice and redemption as a cunning badger learns the hard way not to cross a kind-hearted farmer. The White Hare of Inaba: A story of transformation and compassion, where a suffering hare finds redemption through the kindness of Okuninushi. Each tale is brimming with adventure, moral lessons, and the rich cultural heritage of Japan. Perfect for readers of all ages, this collection is a treasure trove of timeless narratives that will inspire, educate, and entertain. Why This Book? Engaging and Educational: Perfect for children and adults alike, offering moral lessons and cultural insights. A Timeless Gift: An ideal present for those who love mythology, history, and storytelling. Unlock the magic. Embrace the adventure. Rediscover the timeless tales that have enchanted generations. “A must-have collection for anyone who loves mythology and timeless tales.” “Beautifully written, a perfect addition to any bookshelf.” Join us in the land of the rising sun and let these ancient stories ignite your imagination and warm your heart. Folk tales are the foundation of human storytelling. They are windows into the soul of a culture, offering distilled teachings and invaluable insights. By exploring these stories, we gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the values and beliefs that shape societies. In this collection, we celebrate the happiness that storytelling brings to both tellers and listeners. Our mission is to preserve this valuable cultural inheritance and give others the opportunity to own and cherish a part of it. These tales are more than just stories; they are treasures that connect us to our ancestors and inspire future generations. We envision this book (and the rest of the series) as a valuable addition to any library or bookshelf, a treasure to be passed down and enjoyed for years to come. Let these captivating tales of heroism, magic, and adventure inspire and enlighten you, just as they have for countless generations. Add Folk Tales from Japan to your collection today and experience the timeless magic of these legendary stories.

The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter is a 10th-century Japanese monogatari (fairy tale).It was also occasionally known as The Tale of Princess Kaguya. It primarily details the life of a mysterious girl called Kaguya-hime, who was discovered as a baby inside the stalk of a glowing bamboo plan