The Tale of The Princess Kaguya

The bamboo cutter discovers a radiant bamboo shoot, a pivotal moment that initiates a series of transformative events. From this glowing miracle, he finds a tiny maiden inside, whom they affectionately name Princess, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey for their family.

As time passes, the tiny maiden grows rapidly, astonishing everyone with her vivacious spirit. The villagers begin to call her Takenoko, reflecting her rapid development and the joy she brings to their lives.

The bamboo cutter discovers treasures like gold and fine fabrics in the bamboo grove, which hint at Princess Kaguya’s celestial heritage. Inspired by these findings, he plans to elevate her social status, showing the lengths he will go to for her happiness.

In an effort to secure a better life for his family, the bamboo cutter moves them from their simple countryside home to the opulent capital. Their new grand mansion is filled with servants and luxuries, drastically changing their former way of life.

To mold Princess Kaguya into a refined lady, a strict governess is brought in. Despite the luxurious surroundings, Kaguya struggles to adjust to this new life, feeling torn between her humble origins and her new responsibilities.

When the truth of her origins becomes known, Kaguya is overwhelmed with desperation and chooses to flee the capital, yearning for the familiarity of her childhood landscapes. However, she returns to find her friends have moved on, leaving her alone and disoriented.

As Kaguya matures, her extraordinary beauty attracts admirers from across the lands. Five noble suitors attempt to win her affection, each presenting extravagant gifts, yet she remains elusive, asserting that only one who can obtain her coveted prize will win her heart.

During spring, Kaguya longs to witness the cherry blossoms, prompting a return to the countryside with her mother and a loyal handmaiden. Twirling joyfully among the petals, her happiness is abruptly halted by a reminder of her responsibilities after a child's heartfelt apology.

As Kaguya's royal carriage approaches the capital, she spots Sutemaru amidst chaos, only to be horrified as a violent beating unfolds due to his attempted theft. This moment stirs up her feelings of love and concern for him, overshadowing her status as a princess.

Kaguya faces repeated rejections from suitors, each presenting tokens that fail to impress her. The fourth suitor, despite displaying genuine kindness in presenting a simple bloom, is thwarted by his wife's intervention, deepening Kaguya's sense of melancholy.

Intrigued by Kaguya's celestial beauty, the Emperor of Japan attempts to abduct her, further complicating her emotional turmoil. Kaguya reveals her true essence, pleading with him to stop his relentless pursuit as she grapples with her dual existence.

In a moment of vulnerability, Kaguya confides in her parents about her origins from the Moon and her longing for life on Earth. As her memories begin to surface, she silently seeks help from the Moon, ultimately preparing for her inevitable return.

As Kaguya confronts her unavoidable destiny, she shares her attachment to her earthly life with her father, who vows to protect her. He fortifies their mansion into a stronghold, attempting to shield her from her celestial fate.

Kaguya returns to her childhood village, rekindling her love with Sutemaru amidst joy and nostalgia. Their bond is strong, yet their happiness is short-lived as they face the impending arrival of a celestial procession.

On the eve of the full moon, a servant presents Kaguya with a sacred garment that will erase her earthly memories. As she bids a heartbreaking farewell to her family and friends, she is enveloped by the robe, leaving her loved ones to mourn her departure.