Sarukani Gassen (The Battle of the Monkey and the Crab)

Sarukani Gassen is a well-known Japanese folktale about fairness and revenge. The story begins when a kind crab finds a rice ball. A sly monkey convinces the crab to trade it for a persimmon seed, claiming it will grow into something better.

The crab plants the seed and patiently nurtures it until it becomes a fruitful persimmon tree. When the fruit ripens, the crab asks the monkey to help pick them. Instead, the monkey climbs the tree, eats the ripe fruit, and cruelly throws hard green persimmons at the crab, injuring it.

The crab’s children, with the help of loyal allies—a chestnut, a mortar, a bee, and a cow dung— join forces to confront the monkey. Each uses its unique ability to punish the monkey for his deceit and cruelty. In the end, justice is served, and the crab’s family lives in peace.

This tale teaches that selfishness and betrayal bring consequences, while unity and cleverness can overcome injustice.