One day, Issun Boshi said to his parents, “I have decided to travel to the city and find work. Could you please prepare the things I’ll need for my journey?”
The old lady floated a small bowl on the river to make a boat for him.
The old man took a needle and fashioned a perfect sword for him.
And, using a single chopstick as an oar, Issun Boshi began his journey to the city.
He suffered many hardships on his travels, but he eventually arrived safe and sound in the city.
Feeling proud of himself, Issun Boshi strutted through the streets of the city until he came across a huge house.
“Open the gates,” he shouted. “Let me in.”
The gates were opened by the master of the house, but, to his surprise, he found no one on the doorstep.
“Who is there?” he called. “I can’t see anybody.”
“I’m down here, by your foot.”
The master of the house looked down and saw Issun Boshi standing by his foot.
“My name is Issun Boshi, and I am looking for work,” said the tiny boy.
“Well, you seem to be a brave and clever boy. You can work for me.”
Issun Boshi was set to work as a guard for the rich man’s beautiful daughter.