The Crane Maiden | Japanese Folklore Sleep Story
In tonight’s story, you are a poor woodcutter who discovers a wounded crane on your way home from the market. You care for the bird, nursing it back to health until it can fly again. Shortly after the crane departs, a woman arrives at your doorstep seeking a place to stay. The woman repays your hospitality with mysterious and seemingly magical gifts, which bring you great wealth. As your fortunes change, you become more and more curious about your house guest – until you discover her connection to the crane you once cared for. This tale is lovingly adapted from the Japanese folktale “The Crane’s Return of a Favor.”