Many people who are interested in Japan know the story of Momotaro. If you don’t, perhaps you know the story called “Peach Boy” in English. If by chance you don’t know either (they’re the same story), let me give you a brief overview, and a link to the full story. Momotaro is a story of a boy who was born from a peach. He travels far to challenge the demons who have been disrupting the peace of the village. Before he leaves, the old man and woman who found him in the peach which floated down the river gave him some kibidango (a traditional Japanese sweet) to take with him for the journey. Along the way, he meets a dog, a monkey, and a bird. He gives them each a kibidango, and in return they help him fight the demons. Momotaro and his friends defeat the demons, and peace returns to the village.
Okayama
Okayama is a prefecture which is just across the bay from Shikoku on the main island (Honshu). Okayama city is the capital city of Okayama prefecture. Why am I telling you about this? Well, it is said that the story of Momotaro was born in Okayama.
Okayama is well known for the white peaches that are grown in the mountainous northern part of the city. In the story Momotaro, the old couple comes across a giant peach which is floating down the river. They take the peach to their home, and when the break it open, a boy comes out. He is called Momotaro because momo means peach in Japanese.
One of Okayama’s most famous omiyage (souvenirs) is kibidango. Kibidango is a traditional Japanese sweet which was invented in Okayama prefecture. Kibi can refer to millet, but in this case refers to the old name of the region of Okayama. Kibi no kuni or the country of Kibi is the old way of referring to Okayama prefecture, which was then actually called Kibi province. Dango means dumpling (usually sweet), or can simply refer to something which is round or ball-shaped. Dango is usually made of rice flour, and is quite unique in texture. What makes kibidango special? As opposed to the rice flour that most dango uses, these dango use kibi mochi flour, which is a derivative of millet. These kibidango are also mentioned in the tale of Momotaro as the snack that he took with him on his journey to fight the demons.
Ultimate Frisbee
So, why am I talking about Okayama so much? You guessed it! I have an ultimate frisbee tournament there this weekend! Tonight I’ll be heading into town to buy some snacks and breakfast (if I feel like putting in the effort…), and hopefully getting an early night’s rest! Tomorrow I’ll be waking up at around 4:30 or so and leaving my apartment at about 5 to go pick up my friend. From there, we’ll meet another friend and all ride together to Okayama.
The tournament is a two day affair, but hopefully I’ll have some down time to eat some of the local food or to visit some of the local sights. At the very least, I plan on buying some kibidango to eat and to bring back with me.
Until next time!! xx
Jessica's English Corner 