#280 Why Are Momotaro's Companions a Dog, a Monkey, and a Pheasant??

Since when has the Momotaro story we know existed?

While the tale of Momotaro is well known to us, the oldest surviving picture book was actually published in 1723 (Kyoho 8) during the Edo period. It is surprising to learn that the story was told a little differently back then, including a theory where the old man and woman became young again instead of being born from a peach.

There is a deep reason behind the combination of animal companions.

There is actually a proper reason for the choice of animals—the dog, the monkey, and the pheasant—that are indispensable in the story. They are deeply connected to the northeast demon gate direction and the Chinese zodiac, so please listen to the main episode to learn about the hidden meanings of the animals and the secrets of the directions.