Ushiwaka, also known as Ushiwaka-maru or the youthful Minamoto no Yoshitsune, appears in the 1939 anime "Benkei and Ushiwaka." Separated from his family and raised at Kurama Temple, he dedicates himself to martial training after learning the Heike clan killed his father. He practices nightly in Soujyou Valley, striking trees with a wooden sword while envisioning them as foes. During these sessions, a tengu—a supernatural spirit—critiques his early lack of skill and offers to train him. Under this tutelage, Ushiwaka’s swordsmanship advances rapidly until he surpasses the tengu. Defying temple priests who demand he become a monk, he departs for Kyoto around age 14 or 15.

Ushiwaka exhibits exceptional agility, speed, and confidence, clad in a white robe and wielding a gold-chased sword. His flute-playing reflects artistic refinement and a calm demeanor in conflict. Hearing rumors of Benkei—a warrior monk stealing swords on Gojo Bridge—he deliberately seeks him out to subdue and recruit him as a vassal. In their moonlit confrontation, Ushiwaka remains composed when Benkei demands his sword, provoking him with the challenge, "Take it by force—if you can." He effortlessly dodges Benkei’s attacks, disarms him with his flute, and evades assaults by leaping onto the bridge’s railings. His physical prowess and tactical superiority force Benkei to acknowledge defeat and pledge lifelong loyalty.

The film highlights Ushiwaka’s mischievous youth: riding boars through forests and destroying tree branches in training frustration. His encounter with the tengu includes a comical "tantrum contest" of foot-stamping. When the tengu conjures magic, transforming leaves into sword-wielding crows, Ushiwaka’s adaptability and combat ingenuity overcome the threat. These moments underscore his blend of lightheartedness and fierceness.