Original subtitles

Tokyo Story

Screenplay by Kogo Noda and Yasujiro Ozu

Produced by Takeshi Yamamoto Cinematography by Yushun Atsuta

Production design by Tatsuo Hamada

Music by Kojun Saito

Cast:

Chishu Ryu as Shukichi Hirayama

Chieko Higashiyama as Tomi

Setsuko Hara as Noriko

Haruko Sugimura as Shige Kaneko, So Yamamura as Koichi Hirayama

Kuniko Miyake as Fumiko, Kyoko Kagawa as Kyoko

Eijiro Tono as Sanpei Numata, Nobuo Nakamura as Kurazo Kaneko

Shiro Osaka as Keizo Hirayama, Hisao Toake as Osamu Hattori

Directed by Yasujiro Ozu

The train gets in to Osaka at 6:00

Is that right? Keizo should have finished work by then

If he got our telegram, he should be at the station

- Here's your lunchbox, Mother - Thank you

l’m leaving now

You don't need to see us off if you're busy at school

It’s fine, I have plenty of time

- Are you sure? - l’ll see you at the station

- l’ve put tea in your thermos, Mother - Thank you

- Right, l’ll see you later - See you

See you later

Bye!

Have you got the air cushion?

Didn't I give it to you?

It’s not here

- l’m sure I gave it to you - Did you?

Good morning!

Morning

- Off to Tokyo today? - Yes, the train's this afternoon

- I see... - We're going to see all our children

They must be looking forward to your visit

You'll keep an eye on the house for us, won't you?

Of course. You enjoy yourselves

You're lucky you've got such fine sons and daughters

Well, we'll see how we fare

- And it's a lovely day, too - We're very lucky

- Well, I wish you both a safe trip - Thank you

- I still can't find that air cushion - It must be there. Have another look

- Oh, here it is - Found it?

Got it

Doctor Hirayama Paediatrician

Don't make the place untidy, Isamu

l’m back!

Welcome home!

Hi. Have grandpa and grandma arrived?

They'll be here very soon

Mum!

- What is it? - Why have you moved my desk?

To make room for grandpa and grandma

You don't have to move my desk, do you?

They need the space to sleep in

Where am I supposed to study for my exams?

You can study wherever you like

But Mum... where do I do my homework?

- Where, Mum? - Just pipe down

- You never usually want to study - Yes, I do!

You do not!

So I don't have to do any homework, then?

- Well, that suits me just fine! - Quiet, Minoru!

They're here

Welcome home, dear

Come on in

- Welcome - Come in

Come in

There you go

You must be tired, Mother. Did you sleep on the train?

Yes, very well

Come and sit here

Welcome to you both

It’s been a while since we last saw you

Many thanks for having us to stay

- It’s been ages, Mother - It has indeed

It’s lovely to see you

- Is our sister Kyoko well? - Very well, thank you

- She's looking after the house? - Yes

Oh, wait, Fumiko

I brought you a little something

Just some rice crackers. They're quite tasty

- Thank you so much - Mother's fond of them

Shall I serve them?

Any bowl will do

- How about this? - Perfect, perfect

Did Noriko go to the station?

No, she didn't. I told her when they were arriving

- I wonder what happened? - Serve these, will you?

Minoru? Isamu? What are you up to?

Come with me

Grandpa, grandma...

You've both grown

- Minoru's at primary school now - I see

- And how old are you, Isamu? - How old are you?

How old?

The bath's ready for you whenever you like

- Would you like a bath, Father? - All right...

- Would you like to change, Mother? - l’ll get you a light kimono...

l’m fine, Fumiko

l’ll get in the bath

l’ll take that

This way

Did Keizo meet you at Osaka?

Yes, I sent him a telegram and he met us

- Is he well? - Yes

He sent a present for you

It’s all right, Mother, give it to me later

- Have you got a towel, Father? - Yes, yes

Take your time

- What shall we feed them? - I don't know...

- Hey, brother? - What?

Meat's all right for supper, isn't it? Sukiyaki?

Yeah, fine

And maybe some sashimi?

The meat'll be enough

There's plenty to go round

- Hello? - Here's Noriko. Come in!

- Welcome - I was too late!

- Did you go to Tokyo Station? - By the time I got there, they'd gone

- For you - Oh, thank you

- Oh, come in - Welcome

- Sorry l’m so late - They're upstairs

All right, l’ll go and say hello

Welcome to you both

- It’s been a while, Noriko - It’s lovely to see you

Were you very busy?

Not really, but by the time I'd finished, it was too late

Oh, you needn't have rushed round here. We could've met tomorrow

Still working for the same company?

- It must be hard, supporting yourself - Not at all

- Your bath's ready, Father! - Coming!

- l’ll do that for you, Mother - l’m fine

Being in Tokyo is like a dream

I always thought Tokyo was so far away...

...but it was only yesterday we were in Onomichi, and now we're with you

l’m glad l’m alive to see so many changes

But the two of you haven't changed at all

Of course we have, we're a couple of old folks now

Mother?

What are you two talking about? Let's go downstairs

Mother, l’m sure you're getting taller

How could I have grown?

It’s true, you have. And you've put on weight

When I was a child, she was so big...

...I used to feel ashamed in front of my classmates

- Once, she broke a school chair - Don't tell lies!

That chair was already broken

- You still believe that? - Of course!

Never mind. Let's go down

- Shall I take this through, Sister? - Yes, do

- And this? - Just leave it out

It’s a little cooler now

- It must be hot in Onomichi - It is indeed

Mother, how is O-Ko?

She must've been born under an unlucky star

When she was widowed, she married again last spring...

...and took her child with her to Kurashiki

But I hear the poor woman's not very happy

Really?

What was the name of that fellow on the council staff?

Oh, Mihashi, you mean? He passed away

- Quite some time ago, wasn't it? - That's right

Do you remember Hattori?

In the military section?

I remember him

- He's living in Tokyo now - Is that right?

- I intend to go round and visit him - Where is he?

Somewhere in the Daito district. I have his address

Right...

Have you tidied everything up? Thanks so much

Noriko, here's your present from Keizo

Oh, thank you

Thank you

- Oh, sorry, Grandma... - Not at all, Fumiko, not at all

You're going out tomorrow, aren't you?

It’s Sunday, so I can show them around

- Right. Shall we be off then, Noriko? - Let's leave together

- Thank you - Thank you

- Thank you for coming - Thanks for dinner, Brother

- Sorry it's so late - l’ll see you soon, Father

- Thanks - Thanks

We'll be fine, Fumiko

- Thanks for having us so late - Thank you for supper

Thank you for coming

You must be tired, Father

Do you want to go to bed, Mother?

Shall we retire, then?

- Night, then - Goodnight

- Night - Goodnight

- Goodnight - Night

l’ll bring you some water

- You must be tired - Not really

l’m glad they're all well

We're here at last

What part of Tokyo is this?

- The suburbs - I guess so

It was a long ride from the station

I thought they'd live somewhere more central

- Than here? - Yes

Koichi did want to move more centrally

But it's not easy

Urara Beauty Salon

How long are your mother and father staying?

Four or five days. Pass me that

- Shouldn't I call round to see them? - Don't bother. They'll come here

I should take them to a show or something

You needn't bother worrying about them

They're delicious, these beans

What are their plans for today?

Don't eat all those beans

My brother's taking them sightseeing

So I needn't bother, then

Kiyo, come and get some food

Behave yourselves today when you're with grandpa and grandma

- You hear me? - Yes

Sit down

- How much longer? - They'll be ready soon

Go upstairs and ask if they're ready to go

- Are you ready? - Ready

- Sorry to keep you waiting - Let's go, then

They're coming

What about lunch?

We'll go to a restaurant in a department store

- The children will like that - Fine

- Isamu loves those kiddy lunches - All right

Excuse me...

- How is he? - No better

- Any appetite? - He'll only take a cold drink

- Has his temperature fallen? - His temperature is still 102

I see. I'd better see him

Thank you, l’m sorry to spoil your day

Are the hypodermics sterilised? I must visit a patient

Really?

Father, l’m afraid I have to visit a patient

- I see - Sorry

- Never mind - It could take a while

That's all right

- l’ll see you later - Take care

- Still not ready? - No...

- I may be late - What about your mother and father?

Shall I take them?

You can't leave the house unoccupied. We'll go next Sunday

Very well. See you later

- Where's dad going? - To see a patient

l’m awfully sorry

Never mind. A busy doctor's a good doctor

He's very dedicated

Aren't we going, Mum? It’s not fair!

It can't be helped. A patient needs him

Not fair!

- You can go another time - Not fair!

Behave yourself, Minoru!

- You lied! - Make yourself scarce!

- Come here - No way!

- They're so naughty - It’s good for boys to be spirited

Now just behave yourselves

It’s not fair!

You can go another time

It’s always "another time". We never go!

It can't be helped that dad had to go out

- As usual! - Now don't be so difficult

- It’s not fair! - Not fair!

- Not fair! - What? You're being horrible

- Behave, or l’ll tell your father - Go and tell him!

- You just remember those words! - See if I care!

- What's the matter? - Oh, nothing...

Come along, Isamu, come for a walk with granny

- Won't you come, too, Minoru? - Minoru...

- Come on, then - That'll be nice with granny, Isamu

Let's go

Sure you don't want to come, Minoru?

Thank you

Minoru, go with them

- Shan't! - Suit yourself then

See you later

Here you are

Thank you

- What's up with Minoru? - He's just so stubborn

His father was the same

Koichi always had to have his own way

It’s just a shame he had to go out when you're here

Oh, we're fine

We'll go next Sunday

Thank you

After a few days here, we're thinking of visiting Shige

There they are

What do you want to be when you grow up, Isamu?

Do you want to be a doctor like your daddy?

By the time you're a doctor, I wonder where l’ll be?

Welcome back

Hello

- There was a call for you - Who from?

- Enomoto phoned about that business - That's all wrapped up

- What are your folks up to? - They're upstairs

I bought some sweets for them from a place in Asakusa

Try one, they're delicious

These are expensive. They don't expect such things

Tasty, eh?

Yes, but such things are wasted on them

Rice crackers would've done

But they had rice crackers yesterday

Yes, but they really like them

Will you take them out somewhere tomorrow?

Tomorrow? l’m afraid I can't

- I have to collect some accounts - Really?

I was hoping my brother would do something with them

- How about taking them to a film? - What's on?

- There's plenty on in the evenings - Do that with them, then

They've seen nothing of Tokyo yet

It'd be a shame for them not to get out

I know, but who has the time to take them?

- You look busy - Oh, you're back

- Here - Oh, thank you

- What a job you've been asked to do! - Not at all

- Where's father? - Putting clothes out to dry

I see. Let's go to the bathhouse

Father? Father!

Let's go to the bathhouse

Welcome home

Let's go to the bathhouse

- And we can buy ice-cream afterwards - Oh, thank you

Right, let's go

- We're off to the bathhouse - All right

- See you later - Bye

See you later

Mother, you can use my old sandals

Really? Thanks

Here

Hello? Is that Yoneyama & Co?

May I speak to Noriko Hirayama? Thank you

Ah, Noriko? It’s me

Don't mention it

Listen, I need a favour

Can you spare any time tomorrow?

Father and mother haven't been sightseeing yet in Tokyo

I was wondering if you could take them out somewhere tomorrow

I know. I ought to take them really, but l’m too busy at the shop

I know, l’m sorry

Eh? Really?

- Thank you - Not at all

Wait a moment, l’ll have to see

- l’m sorry it's such short notice... - What is it?

- May I have tomorrow off? - All right

- Thank you - What about the aluminium contract?

l’ll get it finished today

Hello? Sorry to keep you waiting

l’ll call for them at 9:00 tomorrow morning

Not at all

Give my best regards to your mother and father

Till tomorrow, then

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Tokyo

Let's trace the illustrious history of this great city

On your right, the Imperial Palace, formerly Chiyoda Castle

Built 500 years ago by Lord Dokan Ota...

...its tranquil setting amid green pine trees and a large moat...

...contrasts strongly with the bustle of modern Tokyo

- Koichi's house is in that direction - I see...

- And Shige's house? - Her house is that way, I think

- And yours? - My house is in that direction

- It’s over that way - I see

I hope you'll come home with me later

Who is it?

- Only me - You're home early today

- Is Miko sleeping? - She's just settled down

- You don't have any sake, do you? - Sake?

- My in-laws are here - I think I might have some

- This is all l’ve got. Is this enough? - Fine. Thanks

Where did he have this photo taken?

In Kamakura. A friend took it

- I see - When was that?

- The year before he was conscripted - Really...

That's his typical look

Head on one side

He always stood like that

- What is it? - May I borrow a flask?

Oh, right

There you go. Do you want these, too? They're delicious

Thank you

Sorry to bother you

Noriko, please don't go to any trouble

It’s fine, it's no trouble

Thank you so much for today

Not at all. You both must be exhausted

No, we've seen so many places, thanks to you

l’m sorry you had to put up with us all day

Of course not

- You must be busy at work, though - Not really

We're only a small company and not that busy, so I can take time off

Well, that's lucky for us

Please...

All right...

And on an empty stomach, too...

This is good stuff

Do you like a drop of sake, Father?

Oh, yes, very much so in the old days

If we ever ran out at home...

...he'd rush out for more, any time of the night

Every time we had a son...

...I'd pray he wouldn't become a drinker

Did Shoji drink?

- He did indeed - Is that so?

Often, when he went out drinking after work...

...he'd bring friends home because they'd missed their last trains

- Really? - So you had the sort of trouble I had

Yes... but now it's a very dear memory

How true

Poor Shoji, he lived so far away...

...I feel he's still alive somewhere

Father often tells me not to be so foolish

He must be dead. It’s been eight years since the end of the war

I know, but all the same...

He was so wilful as a boy

l’m sure he gave you plenty of trouble, too

Not really...

Then he had to die. Poor Noriko

Yes?

- Sorry to keep you waiting - Thank you

It’s not much, but...

- There you are, Mother - Thanks

- Help yourself - Very well. Thank you so much

- They're late - They'll be back soon

How long are they planning to stay in Tokyo?

- They said nothing to you? - No...

Listen, Brother...

...I was thinking, are you willing to put up 3,000 yen?

- What for? - I will if you will

2,000 yen should suffice

- No, we'll need 3,000 yen - What for?

I was thinking we could send them to a hot springs

You and I are too busy to shepherd them around

And we can't keep asking Noriko

- What do you think? - Not a bad idea...

I know a nice hotel in Atami, not expensive at all

- Sounds good. Let's send them there - l’m sure they'll be pleased

Good...

I was worrying about the cost of taking them around. But 3,000 yen's fine

Of course, sending them to Atami will be much cheaper for us

Dear?

What is it?

We're making plans to send the old folks to Atami spa

That's a great idea

I wish I could show them around, but l’m just so busy

- So you agree? - Absolutely. It’s a great idea

Let's do it, then

- We can do nothing for them here - Yeah, you're right

Atami is a good idea

Rather than tramping around Tokyo...

...they can bathe in the hot springs and relax

- The old folks will love it, won't they? - You're right

They are late, though

- Perhaps they're at Noriko's place - Oh, maybe

l’ve never been to a hot springs before

We've put them to additional expense

Isn't this nice, though?

Let's get up early tomorrow and take a walk along the beach

Let's do that

The scenery around here is supposed to be lovely

- That's what the maid told me - Really?

The sea is so calm

- Sorry to keep you waiting - The noodles have arrived

- What's the bet? - You had that?

- That hurts me - Not bad, not bad

- There you are - l’ll take, l’ll take

- Ready! - Ready?

- You discarded this? - Yeah, I did

l’m out

How do you like that, you idiot?

That makes 1632

He thrashed us!

It’s so noisy

I wonder how late it is

Evening!

What's the matter?

You didn't sleep well last night, did you?

But you slept well

No, I didn't sleep a wink

You say that, but you were sound asleep

Really?

This place is for the younger generation

You're right

Hey, what about those newlyweds? They made so much noise!

Do you think they're really honeymooners?

He was up this morning, but she was lolling in bed

He's a fool

I heard him tell her, "You're all mine! Ears, eyes, mouth, all mine!"

A woman like her!

I wonder how Kyoko's getting on by herself

Shall we head home?

Are you feeling homesick already?

You're the one that's homesick, aren't you?

We've seen Tokyo, we've seen Atami

- Shall we go home? - Very well, let's go home

What's the matter?

I just felt slightly dizzy. l’m fine now

You didn't sleep very well, that's why. Let's go

How about sweeping it back? That would suit you

You think so?

You have a lovely neckline

Keep the left side flat and put a wave in the right side

- l’ll try it next time - It will enhance your personality

Kiyo, pass me another magazine. And some matches

- Welcome - We're back

What? Back so soon?

- Afternoon - Why didn't you stay longer?

- What happened? - Well...

Afternoon

- Who's that? - Just some friends from the country

Kiyo, take over this for me

What happened? You're back so soon

- How was Atami? - Yes, we liked the hot baths

And our room had a lovely view

I know. That hotel's only just been built. Was it crowded?

Hmm... a little crowded

- And what about the food? - Sashimi, savoury egg custard...

Their sashimi is tasty. It’s on the coast, that's why

And they served huge omelettes, too

How come you came back? We wanted you to relax

We thought you'd have two or three days' rest

We thought it was time we got back home

So soon? You're not that often in Tokyo

Still, we'd better be going

Kyoko must be feeling lonely at home

She'll be fine, Mother. She's not a baby anymore

Next time, I plan to take you to the Kabuki theatre

I don't want to put you to so much expense

I just want you to relax

Still, my colleagues are holding a meeting here tonight from 7:00

Oh? Will there be many of them?

Yes. It’s my turn to be host

We've come back at the wrong moment

I should have told you. That's why I wanted you to stay at Atami

- The dye's ready - All right. Excuse me

What shall we do?

I don't know

We can't go to Koichi's and bother them again

You're right. Shall we get Noriko to put us up?

She hasn't got room for both of us. You go there

What about you?

l’ll visit the Hattori family and stay there if I can

Anyway, let's get going

Well, we've become homeless at last

- Noriko ought to be home by now - You think so?

Perhaps it's still a bit early

If you're going to the Hattori family, you'd better start now

Yes, we'd better go

That's just like you

Isn't Tokyo vast?

Isn't it just?

If we were to get lost, we might find never each other again

Hattori - Professional Scribe

Is that how long it's been?

It must be 17 or 18 years

Really?

Still, you've sent me a card every New Year's

Don't mention it

I suppose Onomichi has changed a lot

Well, fortunately, it wasn't bombed

The area you used to live in hasn't changed at all

Is that right? It was such a nice place

We used to enjoy the view from the Senko temple

The price of sea bream used to drop after the cherry blossom season

We haven't eaten it since we moved to Tokyo

That's so true

Listen, dear...

Hmm, later

Tell my friends l’ll be playing pin-ball round there

- See you later - Thank you

We rent the upstairs room to him. He likes going out at night

He's a law student, but he never does any studying

Really?

He's always gambling at pin-ball and mah-jong. I feel sorry for his father

Go on, dear...

How's about going for a drink for old times' sake?

l’m sure my cooking isn't good enough for you

Forgive me for turning up out of the blue

- Remember our old police chief? - Numata?

- He lives nearby - Does he? How is he?

He's fine. His son's an executive in a printing company

- Well, good for him - Shall we pay him a visit?

That would be wonderful

Fancy that?

- Drink up - l’ve had plenty

Drink up, for old times' sake!

I haven't touched a drink in years

Remember how you drank when the Governor visited us?

You mean at the Takemura?

You got absolutely legless!

Remember that young geisha who served us?

- Umeko? - You really took a fancy to her

So did the Governor, if you remember?

And you, as well

Ah, youth! I always disgraced myself whenever I got drunk

Not at all! Drink is good for your health

You're lucky, your children are all well settled

l’m not so sure about that

I often wish at least one of my sons were alive

Both were killed in the war

Didn't you lose one?

Yes, my second son

l’ve had enough of war

It’s hard to lose one's children

However, living with them isn't always easy, either

A real dilemma

Let's drink

Let's change the subject

- And cheer up! - Yes!

If I had an extra bedroom for you, we could drink till morning

Miss, more sake!

Come on, Miss, bring us some sake...

Anyway, l’m really glad you came

I never dreamed I'd see you here in Tokyo

Okaya Noodles

Here's some warm sake

Pour one for me, would you?

You're so drunk

Hirayama, she looks like someone, don't you think?

- Here we go again! - Don't you think so?

Well, like who?

- Yes, she does - Like who?

- That geisha Umeko? - Oh, no! She was much fatter

- She looks like my wife - You're right

See, especially here...

Isn't it time you went home? You've had enough

- And both of them are bad-tempered! - You're being a nuisance

That's what my wife says, too

Hey, come here and pour for me

Have some more

No, thanks

I think you're the luckiest one of all

How come?

With good sons and daughters to be proud of

You can be proud of yours, too

No, my son's no good

He's henpecked and treats me like l’m in the way

He's nothing!

But being head of department is a good position

Head of nothing, more like!

He's only an assistant section chief

I get so depressed that I lie to people about his position

He's a failure

I don't think so

He's my only son, so I spared the rod and spoiled him

You brought your son up properly

He has a degree and everything!

All doctors have to have degrees

l’m afraid we expect too much of our children

They lack spirit

And they lack ambition

l’ve told my son that

He said that there are too many people in Tokyo...

...that it's hard to get ahead

What do you think? Young people today have no backbone

Where is their spirit?

That's not how I raised him!

But Numata...

You don't agree with me?

- You're satisfied? - Of course not, but...

You see? Even you aren't satisfied

It makes me feel so sad

No more to drink

However, Numata, until I came up to Tokyo...

...I was under the impression that my son was doing better

But l’ve found that he's only a small neighbourhood doctor

I know how you feel

l’m as dissatisfied as you are

But we can't expect too much from our children, Numata

Times have changed. We have to face it

- That's what I think - Is it?

- Yes - I see. You, too

My son has really changed, but there's nothing I can do about it

After all, there are too many people in Tokyo

You think so?

I suppose I should be happy

Maybe you're right

Nowadays, some young men kill their parents without a thought

At least mine wouldn't do that

Look, it's gone midnight

So what?

It’s time you went home

You get more and more like my wife. I like you, you know?

Do something with him, will you?

Leave him alone

Let's drink up tonight, right?

A wonderful night, eh?

Wonderful, wonderful

Wonderful night

Thank you. That's enough for me

It’s been a long day today

First we get back from Atami...

...then to Shige's house...

...then over to Ueno Park

You must be tired

Not so much

And here I am, troubling you

- l’m so sorry - Not at all

But I really appreciate your coming. l’m so happy

l’m a burden to everyone

- You've done more than enough - Really?

Thank you so much

You must go to bed now. You have your work tomorrow morning

You need to go to bed, too. Let's both get some sleep

- Very well. I think I will - Please do

What a treat, to sleep in Shoji's bed

Noriko...

- Forgive me if l’m being rude... - What is it?

Well, it's been eight years since my son's death...

...yet you still keep his photo up there like that

I feel sorry for you

Why?

Because you're young and...

l’m not that young anymore

Yes, you are

I feel we're doing you wrong

l’ve often talked to Father about this

If you ever meet someone else...

...you must feel free to get remarried any time

I mean it

It pains us to think that you won't remarry

All right, if I meet the right man...

You certainly will

Why wouldn't you?

You think so?

You had more hard times than happiness after marrying him

I know we should have done something for you

Please, Mother. l’m quite happy as I am

But you should have had a better life

Not at all. I like it this way

You may be happy while you're still young...

...but as you get older, you'll find it lonely

I won't get that old, so don't worry

You're such a good person

Goodnight, then

Goodnight

Good evening!

Hello? Hello?

Mrs Kaneko?

Yes? Who is it?

Who could it be?

- Who is it? - The police. Officer Takahashi

Oh, all right...

Sorry for calling so late. l’ve brought your friends round

They're quite drunk

Why, Father!

- l’m terribly sorry - Goodnight

Who's he, Father?

Father, what's all this?

Father!

Hey, what's happened?

- He's brought some stranger with him - Who is it?

- I don't know - Stop all the noise!

What's all this, Father?

Father!

- Father! What's all this? - Well...

Hopeless! You've started drinking again!

Hello? Hello?

Hey, you! Hey, you!

Father? Father!

You're hopeless!

What happened? Where's he been drinking?

Where? How should I know?

He used to drink all the time

Used to come home blind drunk, upsetting Mother

We hated it

But he stopped drinking after Kyoko was born

He was like a new man, I thought it was great

Now he's started again

Hey, what shall we do?

I didn't expect him back here tonight, let alone with company!

- We can't leave them there like that - It can't be helped

Let's bring Kiyo down and we'll put them upstairs

They're too drunk to make it upstairs

What shall we do?

What a mess!

You sleep upstairs. l’ll put them here

What a bother!

Why didn't he tell me he was coming back?

So late and so drunk!

I hate drunkards

And with a stranger, too

Oh, I can't bear it!

- Thank you for letting me stay - Not at all

l’m sorry the place is such a mess

Won't you be late for work? Will you be all right?

Yes, l’ll be fine

- Mother? - What is it?

I want you to have this

- What is it? - Spending money for you

- What do you mean? - It’s not much, though

You don't have to do this!

Please take it, Mother!

- I couldn't possibly - Please, Mother!

- I couldn't... - Please

l’m the one who should be giving you something

Please accept it, Mother

Please

Must I?

Then thank you very much, my dear

Please

You must need money for yourself, but still you do this for me

I don't know what to say...

...but thank you so much

Thank you

Let's get going, Mother

Yes...

If you come up to Tokyo again, Mother, please visit me

But I don't know whether l’ll be able to...

I know you're busy, but you should try to come to Onomichi

I'd really like to, if only it were a bit nearer

You're right. It’s so far away

Mother, you forgot these

Oh, again! l’ve got so forgetful lately

Let's go, then

Next Tokaido line departure on Platform 14

21:00 express to Hiroshima

It’s packed, isn't it?

But we're in a good position to get seats here

The train should arrive in Nagoya or Gifu by morning

- When does it arrive in Onomichi? - 01:35 tomorrow afternoon

Did you send Kyoko a telegram?

Yes, I did

Keizo will meet you at Osaka, too

Mother, I hope you have a good sleep on the train

She can sleep soundly anywhere!

Even if I don't, l’ll be home tomorrow afternoon

And Father, don't drink too much

Well, last night's reunion was an exception

Has the headache gone?

It’s fine

Let this be a warning

l’m sure it was a good lesson

You've been very kind to us, all of you. We enjoyed our trip

Thanks for looking after us when you have such busy lives

Now that we've seen you all, you needn't come down...

...even if anything should happen to either one of us

Don't talk like that, Mother

This isn't a farewell

I mean it. We live so far away

Sorry for keeping you waiting. The 21:00 departure is now ready...

- Morning - Morning

- Morning - Morning. Sorry about yesterday

- I heard your parents came - Yes. What a palaver

They weren't supposed to get off the train, but my mother became ill

- What was the trouble? - She didn't feel well here

- Was it her heart? - Travel sickness, I reckon

She hadn't been on a train for a long time

What a drama

I had to borrow blankets and send for the doctor twice

- And how is she now? - She's feeling fine this morning

How old is she?

Let me see...

She's way over 60

67 or 68, maybe

Fairly old, then

Take good care of her

"Honour your parents while they are still alive"

That's right

And they say, "One cannot serve one's parents beyond the grave"

It must've been because the train was so crowded

You're probably right

- Feeling better? - I feel fine now

I should be able to leave for home tonight

Well, let's stay here one more night and tomorrow take a less crowded train

Kyoko must be worried about us

But at least we're here in Osaka and able to see Keizo

In the past ten days we've managed to see all our children

And our grown-up grandchildren, too

Some grandparents seem to prefer their grandchildren more than their children

What do you think?

What about you?

I prefer my own children

I agree with you

But it surprises me how children change

Shige used to be a much nicer person before

She did, didn't she?

When a daughter marries, she becomes a stranger

Koichi has changed, too. He used to be such a nice boy

Children never live up to their parents' expectations

Let's just be happy that they're better than most

They're certainly better than average

We're fortunate

I think so, too

We should consider ourselves lucky

Yes, we are very lucky

My folks had to get off the train at Osaka

Oh, really?

Mother became sick on the train

They got home on the 10th

Is she all right now?

I think so. They wrote to say thanks

She must've been tired

The trip was too much for her

- Was she satisfied? - Why wouldn't she be?

She got to see lots of places and went to Atami, too

I suppose so

She'll talk about Tokyo for a long time to come

Hello?

Speaking...

A telegram?

Not yet. Where from?

From Onomichi

It came today, but it's very odd

It says mother's critically ill

Eh? That's right

That's strange

I just got a letter from father

It says they got off at Osaka because mother felt sick

They arrived home in Onomichi on the 10th

That's right

Telegram!

Hold on

Thank you

- It’s from Onomichi - Read it

"Mother critically ill - Kyoko"

Hello? Hello?

The telegram just arrived

You just got one too?

Right, l’ll come over

- See you later - l’ll be waiting

How did it happen so suddenly?

I wonder if it's serious

Should I let Noriko know?

Yes, do that for me

Yes? Yoneyama Trading Company

Hold the line, please

Miss Hirayama, telephone!

For me?

Hello?

Oh, hello

Mother is?

Is that so?

Thank you

What can it mean?

I can understand Father falling ill

But Mother's got so much vitality

Think it's serious?

It’s not good. They said "critically ill"

I suppose we'll have to go then

I sensed something wasn't right at the station

She said, "If anything should happen..."

She must've had a bad feeling, somehow or other

- Anyway, we should go and see her - I guess so, since she's critically ill

If we're going, we better hurry. We should take the express

l’ll have to make all kinds of arrangements before I leave

So will I

In the middle of this busy time, too

Come in

Hey, can you bring a bandage?

A bandage

Let's leave tonight, then

Might as well, if we have to go. See you later

Brother?

What is it?

What about mourning clothes? Shall we take them?

Maybe we should

All right, let's take them

Let's just hope we don't need to use them

- Right - l’ll meet you at Tokyo Station

l’ll go and meet them, Father

That's very good of you

l’ll be back soon

What's the matter?

Are you too hot?

The children are coming from Tokyo to see you

Kyoko's just gone to meet them

They'll be here any moment

You'll get better

You will...

Her blood pressure's dropped, but she's still in a coma

I see

Her reactions are weak

- Thank you, anyway - l’ll drop by again

Thank you for coming

Take care

I wonder where Keizo is. He's so late

- Did he answer the telegram? - No, not a word

But he lives in Osaka, the closest of all of us

Father, come with me

You as well

Listen, Father, I don't like her condition

I see...

What do you mean?

I mean it's dangerous

The fact that she's still in a coma isn't a good sign

I see...

Did the trip to Tokyo exhaust her and bring this on?

I don't think so. She was so lively in Tokyo. Wasn't she?

- It might've caused it - So what is it, then?

She may not live till tomorrow morning

Tomorrow morning?

It'll probably happen around dawn

I see... She's not going to live

Mother's 68, isn't she?

So... she's not going to live

That's what I think

I see...

So this is the end?

That's all

Then Keizo won't be in time, will he?

Life's too short, isn't it?

She was so lively, too

She must've had a feeling this would happen

Perhaps

Still, l’m glad she came to Tokyo

We were able to see her alive

And we talked about many things

Noriko, did you bring any mourning clothes?

- No - You should've brought some

Do you have any, Kyoko?

No, I don't

You'll have to borrow some, then

And get some for Noriko, too

At least mother died peacefully and without suffering at all

I wonder if that's Keizo

How is she?

So... I wasn't in time

I was afraid of that

Good day

Unfortunately, I was out of town on business

l’m sorry l’m late

- The telegram came while I was away - Really?

How awful...

When was it?

This morning... at 3:15

I see...

If I'd taken the 8:40 train from Kagoshima, I would've been in time

Keizo, look at her. See how peaceful she is

Forgive my delay

Where's father?

I wonder

Father...

- Keizo has just arrived - Has he?

It was such a beautiful dawn

It’s going to be another hot day today

What's the matter?

I can't stand that sound

Why?

As I hear it, I feel as if my mother were becoming smaller, bit by bit

I wasn't a very good son

It’s time to offer incense

I can't lose her now

"One cannot serve one's parents beyond the grave"

We used to watch fireworks from this room, didn't we, Father?

Oh, did we?

On the night of the town festival

- Remember, Keizo? - No, I don't

You were so excited, but after sunset you fell asleep

With your head on mother's lap

I really don't remember

What were you doing in those days, Father?

I was head of the city's board of education, I believe

Were you? A long time ago, wasn't it?

Once we all went to Omishima during the spring holidays

Oh, that I do remember

- Mother got seasick - Yes, I remember that

She was so full of life then

How old was she then? Forty...?

Forty-two or forty-three, I think

You have to take good care of yourself now, Father...

...and enjoy a long life

Thank you

Some more?

More, sis?

It may sound heartless to say so...

...but I rather wish father had died first

If Kyoko gets married, he'll be left all alone

Maybe

We could've looked after mother in Tokyo

Kyoko, did mother still have that grey summer sash?

- Yes - I'd like it as a memento

- Is that all right, Brother? - Why not?

And also...

...that linen kimono she used to wear in summer?

- It’s here - I want that, too

You know where it is? Get it out for me

It’s all over now

Thank you all for coming so far and giving up your precious time

Thank you

She would've been pleased to know Koichi looked after her

I didn't really do anything

I remember when we went to Atami from Tokyo...

...she had a dizzy spell

- Oh? - It didn't seem that serious

Really? Why didn't you tell us, Father?

You should've told Koichi at least

I guess I should have

But that wasn't the cause

Mother was overweight, so the illness came on suddenly

I see...

It’s just like a dream

- When are you leaving, Brother? - I can't stay long

Me neither. Shall we take the express tonight?

- What about you, Keizo? - I can stay

- Let's leave tonight, then - Right

Noriko, you'll stay with father a bit longer, won't you?

- Yes - No, you're busy. l’ll be fine

I might as well go, then. I have to make a report.

And there's that baseball match, too

Well, thanks for coming when you're so busy

You'll be lonely now, Father

l’ll get used to it

Kyoko, pass me some more rice

Get the train tickets for us, will you, Keizo?

Yes. Rice for me, too

I hope the train's empty

Father, you mustn't drink too much

l’ll be all right

So, you're all going home?

- Here's your lunch - Thank you so much

Thanks for letting me stay

Come and see me in Tokyo in your summer holidays

- Do you have to go home today? - Yes, I must

Really?

- Sorry I can't see you off - That's all right

Do come and see me in the summer holidays

l’m so glad you stayed

I think my brothers and sister should have stayed a bit longer

But they're very busy

They're just selfish

Demanding things and then leaving just like that

That can't be helped. They have work to get back to

But you have yours too

- They think only of themselves - But Kyoko...

Asking for mementos of mother right after her death!

I felt so sorry for poor mother

Even strangers would have been more considerate

But look, Kyoko, I thought so too when I was your age

But, as children get older, they drift away from their parents

A woman has her own life, apart from her parents...

...when she becomes Shige's age

So she meant no harm, l’m sure

They have their own lives to look after

I wonder...

But I won't ever be like that

Otherwise what's the point of being part of a family?

You're right

But all children become like that eventually

You, too?

I may become like that, in spite of myself

Isn't life disappointing?

Yes, nothing but disappointment

- Well, I should get going - Goodbye, then

Father, l’m leaving now

- Take care of yourself - Thank you. You, too

Come and see me in the summer holidays

Goodbye, then

- Goodbye - See you soon

- Goodbye - Goodbye

Has Kyoko left?

Father, l’m leaving on the afternoon train

Oh? You're going home?

Thank you for everything

Please, I didn't do anything

- You've been a great help - Not at all

My wife told me how kind you were to her...

...when she stayed at your place in Tokyo

Not at all. I didn't have much to offer

Well, she really meant it

She told me that evening with you was her happiest time in Tokyo

- I want to thank you, too - Not at all

She was so worried about your future

You mustn't go on like this

Don't worry about me

You should get remarried if you meet the right man

Just forget about Shoji

It pains me to see you living like this

No, it's not like that

She said she'd never met a nicer woman than you

l’m sure she was overestimating me

She certainly wasn't

l’m not the nice woman she thought I was

It embarrasses me that you should think of me like that

Well, it shouldn't

Really, I can be quite selfish

l’m not always thinking of your late son, though you may think I am

You should just forget him

Often, there are days when I don't think of him at all

Sometimes I feel I can't go on like this forever

Often I lay awake at night wondering what will become of me if I remain alone

Days pass and nothing happens, and I feel so alone

In my heart, I seem to be waiting for something

- l’m just being selfish - No, you're not

Yes, I am

But I couldn't say this to mother

That's all right

You truly are a good woman. An honest woman

Not at all

This watch belonged to her

It’s rather old-fashioned...

...but she used it since she was your age

Please take it as a memento

- But I... - Please take it

l’m sure she'd be very happy if you used it

Please take it

Thank you

Please believe me when I say that I want you to be happy

I mean it sincerely

It’s strange...

We have children of our own...

...yet you've done the most for us, and you're not even a blood relative

Thank you

You must be feeling lonely with them all gone

It was so sudden, wasn't it?

Well, she was a headstrong woman...

...but if I'd known things would come to this...

...I'd have been kinder to her while she was alive

Living alone, I think the days will seem very long

Absolutely

You'll feel lonely

The End