Original subtitles

Toei Representation at the Japan Art Festival, 1966

Toei Company, Ltd. Presents

KOTO

Produced by: OKAWA Hiroshi

Original Story: MIZUKAMI Tsutomu

Directed by: TAZAKA Tomotaka

CAST

SAKU MA Yoshiko

NAKAMURA Ganjiro NAKAMURA Katsuo

Lake Biwa!

Is this your first time?

After crossing mountains after mountains...

I didn't expect to see such a large lake.

Nishiyama, where we're going...

...is at the foot of Mt. Shizugatake.

It's a village that produces the best shamisen strings.

There's Mt. Shizugatake!

Good day!

Welcome back!

I'm back, Mr. Momose.

Kayo?

When did you get back?

Just now. I've brought a worker.

Come here and meet the master.

How do you do, sir? I'm Saku from Kurigara.

I'm Kidaiyu Momose.

You'll work for me?

Yes, sir.

Wonderful!

Suzu! A new hand came from Wakasa Province.

I didn't expect you to find one during this season.

I thought I'd have to wait until the busy summer season.

I'm delighted.

These are your new friends.

She's Masuko from Echizen.

Teruko from Hikita.

That's Kanekichi.

My oldest worker.

And my wife, Suzuko.

A skilled worker.

You'll learn a lot from her.

You're welcome here.

You must be worn out from crossing the hills.

Yes, Madam.

Please be kind to her, everyone.

I'm going to Mr. Iwata's place.

Write to your mother later.

Goodbye!

Thank you!

Kayo!

Kayo!

Thank you.

We can see each other often since we live nearby.

This is your room.

Masuko and Teruko will be with you, too.

What's the matter?

Madam! I'll work hard. Please teach me.

Of course I will.

Think of me as our own mother.

Thank you.

Be seeing you.

Saku Tsugao of Kurigara, Wakasa, is employed.

The water flows down from Shizugatake.

The water's essential for reeling, twining and dyeing.

It's because of this water that our silk

is noted for its beauty.

Do you know how many silkwonns there are?

Can you guess?

I'd say about 40,000.

Aren't they beautiful?

The strings for 150 shamisen are made at one time.

Let's have lunch.

Come, Saku!

Are you going to see Shinbei today?

Yes. After lunch.

By the way, I'll check the mulberry fields.

Saku!

Come with me.

Yes, Master.

Have lunch first.

What pretty sandals!

With red thongs!

My mother made them specially for me.

Our shamisen and koto strings are...

...hand-spun, not like those of Nagahama or Kinomoto.

90% of Japan's strings are produced here.

We're going to cross the mountain.

This area here is a famous ancient battlefield.

Lord Hideyoshi won the battle here in 1600.

We're at the top of Mt. Shizugatake.

Aren't Biwa and Yogo a beautiful pair of lakes!

That's Lake Biwa.

And that's Lake Yogo.

Lake Yogo's water level is 50 meters higher than Biwa's.

So scholars say the lakes have no connection to each other.

But I think...

...they're connected deep under water.

Lake Yogo is bottomless.

Once a silk reeler fastened a small rock to the end of.

A thread of a cocoon and sank it.

It was reeled off the cocoon to the end, but

it didn't reach the bottom.

A cocoon has thread of 800 meters or so.

Both takes are connected at that depth perhaps.

So why don't they level up?

You see that big rock over there?

That's Weeping Rock.

There's a legend that the children cried for their mothers there.

The children's tears represent everyone': tears.

It's a fable, but...

All mankind's tears of joy and sorrow are in that lake.

Mothers and children...

...cry when they're both happy and sad so the lake is full.

Man's life is full of humor and pathos to make teardrops.

The water of tears flow into our village to make beautiful strings.

The reason why our strings have good timber is...

...because the human feelings are breathing in them.

That's my description of the natural features of Lake Yogo.

Here we are.

This is my mulberry field.

You'll flick mulberry leaves here sometimes.

My mother's tear...

My father's tear...

I shed tears when I left home.

Are you Saku?

Yes.

Your master wants you.

This is Saku from Wakasa.

She came only yesterday.

A nice girl.

So lovely.

He gave a boy worker to me.

Be friends with him.

He's Ukichi from Tsunegami in Wakasa.

He's been with me for three years.

Kidaiyu is his new master from today.

Is your village farther than Obama?

No, right before it.

Is your mother in Tsunegami?

She's dead.

And your father?

He's dead also.

When did they die?

My mom died when I was seven, and my dad died when I was twelve.

Who brought you "P?

My uncle did.

He sent me here after school.

Do you know the work?

I hope so.

Thank you!

He rarely talks.

I think he swallowed his tongue.

Wakasa people are gloomy.

Saku.

Yes?

You were born in Kurigara, right?

Where was he born?

Tsunegami.

How do you write it?

Tsune, T-S-U-N-E; gami, G-A-M-I.

It's at the end of the peninsula.

The most desolate village it Wakasa.

Are you free?

Yes, Madam.

Get me two boxes from the shed.

Two boxes?

Right away, Madam.

Ukichi!

What happened?

You'll get scalded if you aren't careful.

But the threads will hang slack if you're timid.

Who taught you?

Shinbei?

Yes, he's a master at it.

H can make the threads do anything.

There's an annual function in my village...

...to exterminate insects.

The villagers drive them away carrying torches...

...during the Bon season.

They gather around the big torch on the shore.

The big torch?

It's as tall as a house.

It looks like a huge tree is burning.

It must be beautiful.

The seas and fields tum pink all at once.

Be careful not to get your leaves wet.

Let's call it a day.

Kanekichi!

Go into town tomorrow.

Ukichi!

You spin in his place.

Get a helper.

I'll use Saku.

She's green.

I'll teach her.

Okay, Saku?

Yes.

Walk slowly.

Yes.

Very good!

March 11, 1926.

Kanekichi and Ukichi are conscripted.

Did you get it for a bargain?

No.

When did you start smoking?

From today.

I'm a man now.

Try one, Ukichi.

No, thanks.

You're saving all your money...

...to build a plant of your own.

You're going to build a shamisen factory?

He has a big ambition.

He won't remain as a silk raising, or reeling man.

He have a plant of his own...

...specializing in koto or shamisen strings.

So he doesn't smoke to cut down on expenses.

Where will the silk inspection office be?

At Kawaraichi.

I know the place. It reminds me of home.

You'll be grade A.

You're quite fit.

An infantry man perhaps.

You think so?

How about Kanekichi?

A trooper perhaps.

Then I'll have to take care of the horses.

I prefer the infantry.

The last train.

Let's call it a night.

Thanks for tonight.

Leave the wash. I'll do it.

Thank you.

Go after him, Masuko.

Don't tease me.

Masuko likes Kanekichi very much.

But he treats her lightly, I know.

Is it true?

Of course.

He told me he'd work here till the exam.

He'll get some money from the master and go away.

Apprenticeship generally ends at the time of conscription.

Most men don't come back after the physical exam.

Ukichi won't either.

You'll regret it if you get involved.

He forgot his cap.

It's been five days.

I wonder how they did with their exam.

They might've got sick of silk reeling.

They were like the others.

One should return at least.

Isn't that right, Saku?

Look!

Isn't that Ukichi?

So it is.

So you're a grade A selectee.

With your build.

What branch?

Transport soldier.

The Kanazawa barracks.

The Kanazawa Transport Corps.

Maybe Kanekichi is a grade A, too.

Don't you know?

He hasn't returned yet.

Deliver on time.

Certainly, sir.

Goodbye.

Goodbye, sir.

An order for koto strings. We have to hurry.

Ukichi, spin tomorrow with Masuko.

Ukichi will have no dealings with me.

Saku': better.

When will you enter the barracks?

In July.

What do transport soldiers do?

They take care of horses.

Do you like horses?

No, I don't.

Makes me not want to join the army.

I hate to see you go, too.

I'll be lonely without you.

Saku!

Yes?

Nothing.

Just nothing.

Why don't you have lunch?

I'm not hungry.

Are you sick?

It's nothing.

So? Take one at least.

Damn it!

It's 1 a.m. You'd better turn in.

You got the notice?

Yes, I did.

I go on July 20th.

These worms will be in the cocoons then.

Do you feel sick?

Don't worry.

But...

The master's wonted.

The worms are fat and you're thin.

You're not well.

Thread, needles toilet paper, oil paper, towels

and some strings.

And this is an I.D. tag.

They'll provide you with an I.D. book.

You've got everything.

Thanks a lot!

Take good care.

I worry when I look at you.

But it's the Emperor's order.

Don't be late.

Yes, sir.

We'll have a sendoff party tonight.

Congratulations!

Thank you!

Congratulations!

Thank you!

Who is it?

What's the matter?

Soy sauce!

Saku!

I've been drinking it and not eating to lose weight.

I wanted to get sick so the army wouldn't take me.

I have a physical exam tomorrow.

I'll be exempted if I'm feverish.

I want lung trouble.

So I've been drinking it secretly since I knew it was bad.

Do you dislike being a soldier so much?

I'd rather die than take care of the horses in the barracks.

I'd be glad if you could return, but...

I don't want to go...

...because I hate to part with you.

Saku!

I like you, Saku.

Thank you.

B-A-N-Z-A-I!

I'm going.

Take good care.

Good luck!

Good luck!

He'll be lonely.

Go see him off to the station, Saku.

Yes, Master.

I like you, too, Ukichi.

I'll miss you so much if you go.

Military service is compulsory for Japanese men.

You can't stay out.

I'll wait for you till you return from the service.

You'll be training hard from now on.

I'll wait for you.

I'm glad to know how you truly feel.

I'll wait for you.

This is the Goddess of Mercy, the national treasure.

Matsue!

I saw a superb Kannon.

A beautiful Kannon! I also admired it.

It's so cool around here.

You'll greet him after I introduce you.

Master! Let me introduce you.

They are the influential men of this village.

I'm Genpachi, the owner of this house.

How do you do?

You're welcome to this village.

I'm Kahei, a silk reeler.

It's a great honor to have you here.

I'm Kidaiyu Momose, a silk reeler.

I'm Shinsuke of the same trade.

How do you do?

I'm Monzaemon Kiriya, a shamisen-music master.

I've known about your superior quality strings for a long time.

I thought it was a shame I'd never come here before.

The string is the life of a shamisen and the heart

of my art lies on it.

So I came to see it being made with my own eyes.

I'm glad you came.

This lady is Matsue, a flute-music mistress.

How do you do?

How do you do?

The others are my pupils.

How do you do?

Let me take your coat and hakama skirt.

Thank you!

Look at that dog.

What strange colored hair!

The color of his legs and back are different.

He ran near the dyeing pots.

His hair was dyed the yellow color of the strings?

Dyes never fade if they're used once with the water here.

You can see that with the dog's color.

He swims during the summer but his colors never fade.

Is that your dog?

He wandered here.

There are two more dogs.

That one is called "Number One" or "Ichi."

The next is a female...

...called "String" instead of "Number Two."

The third is a male and is called "Cocoon."

You're indeed silk makers.

Ichi!

Master!

Yes?

I'll show you to the bath.

Are you a Nishiyama girl?

No, I came from Kurigara in Wakasa Province.

Is your village near the sea?

No, Master.

In the mountains.

You came from a village in the mountains?

I'm working here as a silk reeler.

So I have the pleasure of using the strings you make.

I was told to serve a great master of shamisen of Kyoto.

It's kind of you.

Come this way, please.

What is your name may I ask?

Saku is my name.

Saku?

A beautiful moon.

Truly beautiful!

I used to see such a moon at home.

Is your father a farmer?

He's a charcoal burner.

And your mother?

She works in the fields and helps him sometimes.

Any brothers or sisters?

No, I'm the only one.

The only daughter?

Yes.

Your mother sure had courage to send you away.

During festivals...

...I can see her.

Take your time.

I've never seen such a funny bathtub.

Oh, Master!

How do you get in this bath?

How odd this is! It's the first time for me.

It's also a steam-bath.

It's really a torture tub.

The processing of this mulberry whip was initiated 400 years ago.

It's made from the root.

It's the best of all medicines.

It tastes good.

One will have great energy if it's taken regularly.

When Saint Kukai visited this village...

...he had sympathy for the poor people.

He decided to teach sericulture to them.

Chanting a sutra, he dug the earth himself and worked a miracle.

That was the beginning of silk manufacturing here.

Steamed and sweet-boiled carp, roasted sweet fish, boiled eel...

That's fine!

There's more.

I see it's enough.

It's mentioned in literature.

I mean it.

We started already.

That was a long bath.

Matsue, I saw a beautiful girl a minute ago.

This time, a girl?

She's like a moonflower...

Or else she's the reincarnation of the Kannon.

There she is.

Where?

Saku...

A rare beauty for a country wench.

Saku!

Yes?

Come and serve him sake.

The Master is asking for you.

Serve him sake.

Yes.

She's a pretty girl.

The Master has taken a great liking to her.

Thank you.

She's one of my reeling girls from Wakasa.

And she's a good worker.

No wonder.

Most Wakasa girls are pretty and hard-working.

Is it difficult work?

You use boiling water to reel silk.

My fingers are covered with blisters.

From the hot water?

You spin cocoons round and round in it to reel silk.

Madam!

Do you have a shamisen?

Not one good enough for you.

Any shamisen will do.

Are you going to play for us?

Yes, extempore.

A new piece?

Just a sudden idea.

I'll take the notes.

What will be the theme?

There's none in particular.

You may call it "The Moonflower Kannon."

Master.

Do you think Saku will come to Kyoto if I suggest it?

Pardon, sir?

I want to take her as my pupil.

I wonder if she wants to acquire an accomplishment with the shamisen.

What do you think?

Such an opportunity does not come up everyday.

Fortune smiles on you but once in your lifetime.

It all depends on how you use such an opportunity.

I believe it will do you good to accept it.

You won his confidence.

This village will be highly honored if you become his pupil.

This is what we all think.

I'd hate to see you go.

But it's up to you to decide.

You can remain a silk reeler here or become his pupil.

Look here.

I'd be glad to let you go if it means your success.

You don't have to consult with me.

You're very fortunate. Your folks will be glad.

The Master wrote to them.

They said I could do...

...as I thought best.

There, you see? They're pleased, too.

But...

I've been dying to live in Kyoto since I was a child.

When I saw people coming home from Kyoto on holidays...

...I noticed they became prettier and refined.

As they were soft spoken. I envied them.

So did I.

You admired them, too?

Then realize your wishes.

It's that simple.

But...

But what?

Japan's number one master wants you.

All the silk masters think it's an honor.

Your master and parents have agreed.

I'm for it, too.

You'll live in Kyoto.

How wonderful!

Yes.

But...

What will Ukichi think?

Ukichi?

He's in the service.

It can't be helped.

When he gets out...

...he'll find that I'm gone.

He'll feel lonely without you.

But he'll be satisfied if it's for your own good.

It concerns him also.

You'll practice shamisen on the strings he makes.

He'll work harder.

I know so.

He's that kind of man.

Think so?

Listen, Saku.

If you find your life tough in Kyoto or anyone bothers you...

Write to me without fail.

Then I'll talk to your master or take you back again.

Don't try to put up with too much.

You can always live here.

You're a good worker.

Understand?

Thanks a lot!

These clothes were made for you.

The cloth was bought from a dry goods dealer and made to your size.

Wear it to Kyoto.

Thank you very much, Master and Madam!

I think of you two as my parents.

My folks couldn't get me such fine clothes when I left home.

Now you have given me such a fine kimono.

I'm so happy-

She's waiting.

You're welcome here.

I'm delighted.

And I feel relieved.

I wanted to live in Kyoto.

But I'm not so deft of hand that I can play the shamisen.

I don't have a good memory.

I'm just a silk reeler.

I'm afraid you're giving me too much credit.

I don't think so.

I like your gentle nature.

It isn't difficult to play it.

A child can do it.

The point is to what extent you can make headway with it.

You'll see in time.

First train your eyes and ears.

Play it at your leisure.

Wear yourself into practice.

I'll give you a shamisen to practice with.

Play it relaxed.

The instrument will play itself.

Tatsu, here, will tell you what to do.

Saku': been making the strings for the koto and

the shamisen that we use.

She knows the heart of the shamisen, I think.

She'll work here.

Be kind to her.

Yes, sir.

Hello, Mistress.

Oh, it's you, Saku!

He got his wish.

Just got here?

I've just arrived.

That's good.

Is he upstairs?

Saku!

Come to my house sometime.

Thank you.

This is your room.

Where's the Missus?

At the main house.

This is the practice hall.

She's laid up in bed.

You must be tired.

Have a good rest.

I'm back, Master.

Ukichi!

It's you, Ukichi. Welcome home.

Come in.

It's been a long time.

Yes, yes.

It's good to see you again.

Was it hard?

It's snowing lately.

Come right in.

Come in.

Come near me.

Sit down here.

You must've had a hard time.

Yes, but I was in good health.

No illness?

You've returned.

There's not a soul but us today.

We welcome you.

The girls are visiting their folks.

Saku, too?

She's gone to Kyoto.

Kyoto?

That's right.

At a nagauta master's request...

...she became his pupil.

Really?

She wanted to see you badly before she left.

But the master was in a hurry to have her.

She couldn't wait for you.

She begged us to let you know what happened.

Why not take a bath first, Ukichi?

Let's have a drink later.

A bath will refresh you.

Was your job tough?

Yes, it was quite tough.

I took care of the wild horses.

There's no worse job in this world.

It hardened me.

It was quite a job.

Attention, villagers.

His Majesty the Emperor, passed away at 1:25 a.m today...

...despite all the tender care given him during his long lifetime.

We inform you of this news with great regret.

Hello.

Matsue speaking.

It's serious.

I got a call informing me of the Missus' serious condition.

She got suddenly worse?

She coughed up blood?

I'm reluctant to go and inquire about her.

You know my position.

All right, I will.

Is our Master there?

He's not there?

So he knows nothing?

God bless him.

Where can he be?

He hasn't come.

I'll be right over.

I don't know.

I wonder where he went.

How is she?

She's near death.

Fusako!

You had a hard time.

MY sympathies.

What is he doing?

He's crying at his desk.

He is?

Goodbye.

Hello, sir.

Did a strange man come?

No, no one came.

Someone was peeping in.

Who could it be?

We must be careful.

What did he look like?

He wore striped clothes and a hunting cap...

...like an apprentice boy.

Was he tall?

Have you someone in mind?

No.

Thank you!

Thanks.

Nobody': around.

It's your tum.

Thank you.

That reminds me that I also saw a man.

I felt strange and went outside.

He said nothing and left.

I wonder if it's the same man.

Maybe.

He wore a hunting cap.

That's him!

Who is he?

He might've wanted to see Saku.

Saku?

Maybe so since she attracts attention.

She might've known him in Nishiyama.

She receives and writes letters sometimes.

Good morning!

Practicing?

Let me hear it.

Please!

From the beginning.

Alright.

Thank you.

That's all.

Do you think you're playing a shamisen?

It may be my teaching.

Quite so.

Is this the best you can do?

Your teaching is mediocre.

Saku': not concentrating.

She's daydreaming.

Where's your heart?

Don't waste time here.

Saku!

Ukichi!

It's been a long time.

Are you alright?

Yes. Are you?

I missed you.

Same here.

I missed you very much.

In fact, I've been here often...

...and have seen the tower.

I wanted to see you.

But I was afraid.

So I just saw the tower.

Why didn't you come?

You'd get in trouble if I went there.

Are you alright there?

Yes, I am.

Is everyone kind?

Yes, everyone': kind to me.

How about the shamisen?

I'm slowly learning it.

I see.

I made this for you.

You may be using Nishiyama strings at his place...

...made by someone else.

But I want you to use these strings.

Thanks!

Number one string.

Number two string.

Number three string.

And then?

We saw a picture show and ate noodles in the evening.

Then I saw him off at the station.

What kind of a man is he?

Well...

I know him very well.

He comes from a village in Wakasa Province.

He started work at Kidaiyu': place the day after me.

He's an expert on strings.

He taught me...

...how to reel silk.

You shouldn't mingle with a mill hand.

But he's not bad at all.

I tell you, Saku.

You're a promising girl.

Should he lose his head...

You needn't worry.

Please don't.

I see.

Then it's alright.

You'll work at the main house.

Naka was my late wife's maid.

She's leaving.

I'll be the only maid then.

I'm alone so I don't need any more maids.

Beside, I've got to teach you the shamisen.

It'll be more convenient.

Don't you like it?

Yes, I do, but...

From tomorrow then.

Number one string.

Some of the villagers say that you're his second wife.

Do you think so?

No, I don't.

I believe in you.

I'd kill myself if you didn't.

Look, Saku.

The Bon Festival is coming up.

Let's go back to Wakasa together.

I'd love to.

We'll meet at Nishiyama then.

I'll ask my master.

I'll meet you there.

Really? Make sure of it.

Number two string.

I want to have a small factory of my own.

No one is better than I am at reeling silk.

I could manage to run a small factory.

I'll ask my master to lease me a strip of his mulberry fields.

I'll have a hut built to reel silk in.

Along hut will be good for drying the strings.

It was your dream to have a shamisen string factory.

I'll be glad, too.

Saku!

When I go to my village next time...

...I'll talk to my family about you.

I look it for granted you'd many me.

Is it alright with you?

Alright?

I'm overjoyed!

Thank you, Saku! Thank you.

Number three string.

Saku!

Master.

Come upstairs with your shamisen.

I'm here, sir.

Come in.

No elementary lessons.

I'm not in the mood to teach you from the beginning.

You'll be learning that from Tojiro as before.

I've got to train you to be a full-fledged shamisen player.

I'll re-create you.

I'm going to give you advanced lessons.

I'll be hard on you until you master it.

I'm serious.

Let's try hard at it.

I won't teach you.

I'll implant my feelings into your heart.

Understand?

Hand me your shamisen.

New strings!

Ukichi gave them to me.

You saw him again?

He gave them to me when I saw him last.

Play it as I tell you.

Yes, Master.

Once more.

Imagine white flowers.

Once more.

Once more.

Next.

What's the color?

It's yellow.

What comes to mind that is yellow?

I have a yellow sash.

Stare at it.

Next purple.

Close your eyes.

Think purple.

Once more.

Once more.

Once more.

Listen to this.

Put your shamisen down.

Listen to mine.

Think of the colors.

Remember the note.

Use your ears and heart.

Now I remember.

It's "The Moonflower Kannon" you played before.

You remember it?

Master! I do.

Your hands were rough when you were in Nishiyama.

Now they're soft.

You speak brusquely to me these days.

I did a lot for you.

I thought you felt small at the practice hall.

So I asked him to let you work here.

When you were in Nishiyama...

...I advised him to bring you here.

I'm your benefactor.

And you play false behind my back.

It's too much.

Why do you say that?

What's wrong with me?

You're a bold one!

You made eyes at Tojiro at the practice hall...

...to have him teach you.

Who said so?

Tatsu and the other maids.

You do what you like with the master while you're here.

And you date that fellow from Nishiyama when he's out.

Those are all lies.

Lies?

You're playing innocent, but I have proof.

He's returned.

Welcome back.

Are you depressed?

What's the matter?

I'm not intruding, am I?

You always do.

I want to talk with you.

Make it next time.

You must be careful of country girls.

She looks gentle but she's not.

You're talking about yourself, aren't you?

What do you mean?

I don't think she's a bad girl at all.

Not experienced like you.

Stop your backbiting.

You're blind to her.

I dropped by the practice hall.

I found this letter to her.

She exchanges letters with someone.

She sees him while you're out.

Ridiculous!

Don't indulge in such petty suspicions.

What do you want?

Please send her back to Nishiyama.

What?

Master.

Let me move in this house.

You promised me before.

You let Saku come without saying anything to me.

Please listen.

I can take care of you.

I'll be a good wife.

Have a heart and let me stay.

Stop this!

I have work to do.

You'd better go home and get to work yourself.

I warn you.

The whole district will stand against you for this.

What's that?

I'll fight you despite all your influence here.

Go home!

"Saku...

"Thanks for your letter.

"You can come home for the holidays.

"How nice it will be to go with you to Wakasa!"

Get up, Saku!

Get your shamisen.

Tune it quick.

Try the notes over again.

Yes, Master.

Alright?

Yes.

Are you half asleep?

You're trembling.

Master!

What's the matter?

I'm scared.

You're afraid of me?

Saku...

Are you awake?

May I come in for a minute?

I brought your shamisen.

Is that so?

Put it in there.

Yes.

Saku!

Yes?

A minute ago I was...

Scared?

I was half asleep.

I forgot my manners when you came to teach me.

Forgive me.

I was wrong.

I was so excited that you got scared.

You were wearing that sash in Nishiyama when I first met you.

Yes, that's right.

You were beautiful then...

...like a moonflower.

Artless but beautiful like the one blooming in the mountains.

You seemed so precious.

So I thought of taking you to Kyoto with me to polish you.

Do you know Komaya, the dancer?

Yes. He came to the practice hall several times.

That's the man.

He asked Mr. Adachi in Nagoya to arrange a marriage with you.

I refused.

I told him that you're my important private pupil.

That you're Kannon': child and precious to me.

Kannon': child?

Yes.

I went to Nishiyama for inspection after I prayed to Kannon.

You appeared in answer to my prayer.

It doesn't mean that I'm Kannon': child.

Your beauty': comparable to that of the Kannon.

You're working hard here.

You work without complaining.

I know how different you are from Matsue and Tatsu.

You're a pure maiden.

You're truly beautiful.

I won't let you go.

I want to keep you here as my pupil for good.

Master!

I may not be good as a shamisen player.

I'm satisfied just keeping house.

I don't dislike the housework at all.

And you're more kind to me than anybody else.

I'm more than grateful.

Now go back to your room and tum in.

Do you like it?

I had it dyed...

...and made for you.

It's patterned with moon flowers and the sash with cocoons and strings.

Is this fine kimono for me?

Yes, it is.

This is too nice for me.

I've never worn anything like it.

Try it on.

Look, Saku.

I want to make you more beautiful.

I'll make you the most attractive girl in Kyoto.

Your beauty is not like that of ordinary wives and daughters.

Not tike a geisha.

You have a special beauty.

I want you to wear a refined kimono and go with me everywhere.

The Gion Festival...

The Theatre...

You'll attract attention.

Everyone will tum to look at you.

You said you were going home for the holidays.

Yes.

Wear it and go. Everyone will be surprised.

Thank you.

A dance was arranged to my "The Moonflower Kannon."

I want you to see it.

Would you?

I'd love to.

You can't go in ordinary clothes.

Change into it.

I'll help you with the sash.

Right now?

Yes, right now.

I want to see you in that kimono.

I'll change downstairs.

Why don't you change here?

There's no mirror here.

I've got one.

That's too small.

Is it?

Just change right there.

I can help you dress.

Mr. Adachi did the choreography for my piece.

The stage is set in the mountains first.

A blind traveler is worn out.

He falls asleep on the stoop of a temple.

Could it be reality or a dream? Someone': calling me.

Yes, yes.

Merciful Kannon! I thank you very much.

I can see things now.

Merciful Kannon! I can I see your figure also.

Merciful Kannon.

Traveler! Traveler!

Exquisite!

I see the string of your shamisen has snapped.

Yes, it hasn't been used for half a year.

It's a pity.

I've brought you strings.

I'm a silk reeling girl.

Play it using the strings that I made.

There.

Number one string...

Number two string...

Number three string...

How beautiful!

I can't tie the sash properly.

Saku! I love you. I need you.

Are you going to Nishiyama first before you go home?

Yes.

Are you going to meet Ukichi?

Yes, and I'll go to Wakasa with him.

I'd hate to lose you to Ukichi.

If you go home to Wakasa, you won't come back here.

You'll end up with Ukichi.

Saku, I love you. I want you.

I want to have all of you.

I'm not letting you go.

This is the first time I ever saw such physical beauty.

These hands, legs, neck, ears and eyes...

...are all mine.

My treasures.

How can I give them up to another?

Saku, is it alright?

Master...

We'll be seen.

No one': around.

There's nothing to be afraid of.

Don't be afraid.

The tower is watching us, Master.

The tower...

The tower.

Ukichi...

Ukichi!

Ukichi!

Merciful Kannon? I can't see. I'm blind again.

Open my eyes once more, Kannon.

Kannon! Let me see the girl once more.

Ukichi!

Who is it?

Saku!

Here I am, Ukichi.

Really? Just as you said.

What's the matter?

Why are you crying?

I can't stop now.

Come here and talk to me.

Why are you crying?

It's nothing.

It's because I haven't seen you for so long.

I was remembering the past. I'm sorry.

Don't worry.

I see. You had me scared.

Just a little more to go.

I've got to get this done for an urgent order.

Wait a little.

Never mind. Continue. I'll help you.

I'll run them together.

Okay.

It brings back memories.

Let's go to the festival tonight and leave for Wakasa early tomorrow morning.

We used to have lunch here.

Once during a sudden shower, we talked here for hours.

I trembled in your arms when it thundered.

Dear old hut.

I like this hut.

I used to come here...

...to remember you.

I asked my master...

...to lease a strip of field to me.

I told him I wanted to go independent.

He said he'd lease me this place.

This hut can be converted into a small factory.

He advised me to set up a home with someone I loved.

Saku!

We can get married any time.

You cried when you saw me.

I was wondering...

You cried like a child because you missed me.

I was moved by how deeply you felt about me.

It made me forget all my hardships.

When I was lonely without you after I returned from the army.

When I felt discouraged when I couldn't see you in Kyoto.

You helped me with my work after you cried.

I couldn't help being happy.

I was imagining that you were already my wife.

I'll work hard, Saku.

Then I'll save and become independent.

You'll become my wife soon.

A baby will be born.

I've got to take care of you and bring up our child.

I have to prepare for that.

I'll go to Kurigara with you tomorrow.

To ask your folks to let me many you.

Then I'll report to my uncle and family...

...that I'm going to many a good girl like you.

Ukichi!

Ukichi.

I didn't stop here to go to Wakasa with you.

I want you to make me your wife right now.

Really?

The shamisen is not for me.

I lose myself when I play it.

I don't know what I'm thinking while I'm playing.

I love you.

I know fully that I'm in love with you.

But I forget about you sometimes.

I'm scared of doing something wrong.

I made up my mind to stop playing it.

I came here without the knowledge of my master.

Because I wanted to many you as I promised.

You came here to many me?

I'm ashamed of quitting my job.

I can't show myself to Mr. and Mrs. Momose, and the others.

I thought of going straight to Wakasa.

But I couldn't see you if I did.

I had to see you even if I was ashamed.

You'd make me your wife even if I were the object of ridicule.

I ran all the way up here thinking that.

Saku': returned.

She's my wife.

She's with me.

Make me your wife.

If not, I'll never be at ease.

That's my only wish in life.

I wouldn't mind dying if only I could become your wife.

It's a dream.

Saku': come back to me.

Saku! You're my wife.

Ukichi!

Embrace me.

Hold me tight in your arms.

Saku!

Ukichi!

Have you seen Saku?

Saku?

She left before breakfast.

I thought she went out but she's not back.

She might have gone to Kinomoto Station then.

She only had a few things.

She might have gone to get her baggage.

And shopping maybe.

Do you think so?

Have you seen Saku?

Saku was here?

She's missing.

Maybe she's at Kinomoto.

I'll go and see.

I met a cop on my way who said...

...a young girl was run over by a train.

I hope that wasn't Saku.

I looked everywhere.

What do I do now?

Maybe she went to Wakasa alone.

She would've told us...

...if she were going there.

Let me have a look at her things.

Would it be possible she got sick of me and left?

It's impossible.

We took a bath together after the festival.

Her body was pretty.

I teased her asking if you would be the man to get her.

She answered "yes" and her eyes were filled with tears.

She said she was happy.

She loves you.

She wouldn't dislike you and leave you.

She was saving money to make a home with you.

She left her money.

She couldn't have gone to Wakasa or gone shopping.

It's empty-

The koto strings are gone.

I'm afraid she's gone to kill herself.

There's no reason why she should kill herself.

Listen, Kayo. I...

Kayo, I...

I did something wrong.

This is between you and me.

We got married last night.

I wonder if she disappeared out of shame.

I couldn't help it.

She wanted to many me so much and was so lovely.

I couldn't control myself.

When was it?

Last night.

She might be waiting for me at that place.

Ukichi!

Ukichi!

Ukichi!

Why?

WhY did you die?

If you had troubles or sorrows...

...you should've told me.

WhY did you die?

It was bad of you to kill yourself with my strings.

Saku...

Didn't you want...

...to see your folks at home?

I saw a girl who was run over by a train today.

Many strangers were lurking around.

Cops and doctors were examining her naked body.

What a shame it was for the dead!

If they found out you committed suicide...

...they'd look at you the same way.

Cops and doctors would touch your body with their dirty hands.

I couldn't stand it.

This precious and pretty body of yours...

I don't want anyone else to see it.

I'll bury you in a place where no one knows.

You'd prefer that, wouldn't you?

I'll bury you in a place where no one knows but me.

Isn't that better?

I'll put you in that thread box.

Let's see.

What would be a good place?

How about Lake Yogo?

That would be a good place.

We first met each other at the lake.

Lake Yogo is the deepest around...

..."Weeping Rock."

Caves at the bottom...

...go in every direction.

Some lead to Nishiyama...

...passing under Mt. Shizugatake.

Saku...

It was painful to go in the army and leave you.

My only hope in life was to see you again.

I felt lonely when I returned and you were gone.

And yet there was hope of meeting you in Kyoto and

your coming back.

But you wouldn't return if you are deep under water.

There's no chance of us meeting again.

I can only think of the dark and lonely life ahead of me.

Here we are at the lake.

Saku...

May I go with you to the bottom?

I want to sleep beside you.

You went to the other world alone leaving your folks behind.

I understand that now.

I'll go with you. Alright?

"Embrace me," you said last night.

Then I took you.

I am your husband.

You are my wife.

At the bottom of this lake, we will spin thread together.

The End