All language subtitles for Oshin 244-252 (640x480 x264 AC3)

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Episode 244

I don't know what you
and this Michiko have going,

but it doesn't concern me.

After what you did to Yuri,

how can I allow you to bring
another woman into this house?

If you insist on marrying her,

you can do it after
you leave this house.

If I allow such a
wedding to take place,

I will never be able
to face Yuri again.

You're refusing to
meet Michiko's father?

I will see him,
and I'll cancel all your plans.

Mother...

But if you're leaving us,

and going to follow what
another family dictates,

then that's fine, too.

You're not a child anymore.
Just do as you please.

You don't understand me at all!

No. I don't know how
a heartless man feels.

There's no use
talking about it anymore!

Leave him alone!

Nozomi didn't know what was
going on between Yuri and Hitoshi.

You and Yuri...?

Is that why she left?

I feel very badly
about what I did to her.

Why didn't you marry her?

She loves you.

That's why she let you
have your way with her.

I'm sure you loved her, too.

Mother isn't against
your marrying Yuri.

You had no reason to refuse!

Is it because you
love someone else?

That's not reason enough!

It's too late for that!

Yuri is disgusted with me.
That's why she left.

I betrayed Yuri in order
to marry someone else.

I'm human trash,
but that's all right.

She can despise me. If that will
help her to forget about me.

That would make me feel better.

Stop being so self-righteous!

Nozomi...

I know that I've done wrong.

But I don't care
what others think.

I have my own dreams.

If I marry Michiko,
my dreams might come true.

Her father has is
offering to put up money

for us to renovate,
and expand our store.

Is that what marriage
means to you?

If getting married allows
me to realize my dream,

I will get married
over and over again!

I don't care if people
think I'm cold!

Hitoshi...

I loved Yuri...

If I hadn't met Michiko,

I would've married Yuri
even if Mother objected.

That's why I wasn't interested
in Michiko at first, but...

Because she's from a rich family?

Yeah...

The Tanokura Store
will just end up being

another fish and produce
store if nothing is done.

Something must be done now!

I was desperate...

Michiko's father taught me how to
run our business the modern way.

It fits my ideal
for a perfect store.

And he's willing to finance it.

If we miss this chance now,

the Tanokura family will
never amount to much!

I grew up watching Mother work.

She finally got her
own store at age 50.

That's why I want to
make our store grow.

To reward her
for all her efforts.

As her son, it's only
natural that I feel that way.

I'm sure none of you
will ever understand me...

But I want Mother
to have an easier life...

As soon as possible.
I want her to live in comfort!

That's not reason enough
for you to get married.

It'll never work!

You think our mother will be
happy because you exchanged

the rest of your life for
the future of this store!

I have no choice
but to inherit this store!

I can't do as I please, like you!

I'm sorry for the
trouble I'm causing you.

Mother and I will figure out
a way to compensate Yuri.

Please look out for her
for the time being. Please!

It's about Hitoshi's
marriage plans...

He's gone through a lot in life,
and he's weighed all the options.

He's chosen to marry
Michiko. It's his choice.

What about Yuri?

Now that I know where she is,
I'm going to see her,

and I'll get her
to come back to us.

We can't just let
things go like this.

Leave Yuri to me.

I'll find out what
she really wants.

Maybe Yuri will feel more comfortable
talking to Nozomi rather than you.

She might be more honest.

So let's hear what
she has to say first,

then we can think about
Hitoshi's plan to marry.

Hitoshi isn't trying
to marry Michiko

just to make his
business plans come true.

So please think about it.

Welcome home!
You got back early.

I can't take too many days off.

I'm sorry... You went
home because of me.

My mother is very
worried about you.

And she wants you
to come back to her.

I heard about you and Hitoshi.

I'm sorry. I should've told you.

But it's all in the past now.

I don't even care
to think about it.

I'm grateful that
I can work here.

What about Hitoshi?

I now know him for what he is.
But I don't hate, or resent him.

He'll be taking over
the store one day.

He needs a suitable
wife to help him.

I had no intention of becoming
a bride of the Tanokura family.

Besides, I don't have
enough confidence.

I'm glad things
turned out this way.

I'm just happy that people
are so nice to me here.

Really?

I'd never lie to you.

Cabbage, onions, Gobo,
eggs, and mackerel.

How are they going
to cook the mackerel?

I forgot to ask.

I need to know how to cut it.

Just clean it,
and give it to them.

Another mackerel order?

We can't make money
delivering cheap fish!

Sometimes they order
expensive fish, too.

Stop grumbling!

Five pieces of kasu-zuke fish.
Any managatsuo (butterfish)?

We're sold out,
but we do have amadai (tilefish).

They want dried bonito.

Call and ask them
if amadai will do.

Don't bother!
Phone calls cost money.

We have to treat our
customers properly.

What did Nozomi
write to you about?

What did he write?

What does he say?

He says Yuri has
already gotten over you.

She's a good girl...

She has seen what
you're really like,

and she's disgusted
with you now.

She doesn't care
who you intend to marry.

I see... I'm glad.

You're pathetic!

A girl is disgusted
with you and you're glad.

Now you won't have
to worry about Yuri.

I can bring Michiko
here as my bride.

Please, let me marry Michiko.
I'm begging you!

She and her father are coming
over on Sunday to meet you.

So I want to get
your permission first.

Please!

I guess Hitoshi told
Nozomi all this.

He wants a self-service
store that badly?

I know what Hitoshi's ideas are,

but why try to get money
from his future bride's family?

He wants you to be
able to live in comfort.

He has never mentioned
that to you before.

I guess it's because...

he grew up watching
you struggle to make a living.

He's such a loving son.

I guess I'm to blame for
Hitoshi turning out like that...

All he thinks about is business.

It's too late to tell him
that life isn't all about money.

He just wouldn't understand.

If I oppose his choice for a wife,
he'd hate me for the rest of his life.

Won't it cost a lot of money to
renovate the store to Hitoshi's liking?

We certainly couldn't
afford it ourselves.

Then he has no choice...

Back in 1955, operating a
self-service store was risky.

But Oshin was willing
to go along with him,

because she felt
sorry for Hitoshi.

Episode 245

Welcome home.

You'd better get
ready for our guests!

There's a good crop
of vegetables this year.

I envy the farmers...

There are no more big landlords,
and no more sharecroppers.

They all live well now,
not like when I was little.

Mother.

Yes, I know.

I'd better write
down all my orders.

I'm getting old.
I forget a lot.

You should've taken the day off.
This is a big day for all of us.

I have to take care
of our customers first.

I'll feel bad if we take off
for personal reasons.

We will treat our
guests like any other.

You'd better get ready!

I just got back from
purchasing produce.

You haven't changed yet!

Change into what?
I'm just a fish peddler.

They can see me as I really am.

Mother!

If they don't like it,
that's up to them.

If she is like that,
she won't make a good bride.

Shall we take them out for lunch?

We sell fish here.

We'll serve them
sashimi and broiled fish.

They're coming all
the way from Nagoya.

Let's take them out
to a nice restaurant.

I will not treat this
girl as a special guest.

She might become your wife,

so I don't want to
start pampering her.

- Here.
- Thanks.

She can see how busy
we are at this store.

She'd better learn if
she intends to marry you.

I'm meeting Michiko and her
father because you begged me,

but if I don't like them,

I'll have to decline
this marriage offer.

Oh, come on...

You're for the idea of
starting a self-service store!

What's that got to
do with Michiko?

I don't like the idea of you trying
to borrow money from them.

Get a loan from the bank!

The money from the
bank might not be enough.

There is also the
interest to pay back.

In starting up a new business,
we need help from Michiko's father

who is well-known
in this line of business.

So please be good to them.

Please make us a good lunch.

I will.

He's already hen-pecked...
His in-laws will be all over him!

Don't think like that.

Hitoshi is desperately
trying to get this business

to modern-day standards!
Please try to understand.

My own son, and I can't
have my way with him?

At least he's here with you,

and he wants to
keep the store going!

I guess so...

Maybe I'm lucky to have a son
who gives me a lot of problems.

It keeps me going!

- Your guests are here.
- Okay.

I'll greet them later.

Thank you for
coming such a long.

I'm Hitoshi's mother.

I'm Kawabe.

This is Michiko.

Your son has been
very kind to my daughter.

I'm sure Hitoshi is
causing you a lot of problems.

I'm Michiko. I'm very
pleased to meet you.

I'm sure we're intruding.

I've heard a lot about you.

I should have been
the one to visit you.

We're just here to say "hello."
We'll discuss the formalities later.

I just got tired of leaving
things up to the young couple,

so I came to see for myself.

I'm sure you think I'm
being very foolish

to come calling like this.

Not at all.

It's my fault for not
meeting you sooner.

- Please come inside.
- No, you're the store owner!

You can't leave the store
while it's still open.

- But we can't talk here.
- Sure we can.

This is a nice piece of property!

The whole area will be growing.

More people will be
moving in all around here.

Excuse me, but I think
you're not putting

this retail space
to optimum use.

I was just telling Hitoshi,

that you should utilize
every inch of space,

and devote it to a
self-service market.

You still have a lot
of space out there.

You could build a structure three
times the size of your storefront.

With that much retail space,
you can sell a variety of things!

Not just fresh foods.

Canned goods and condiments.

Sundries and clothing, too!

I envy you...

If you won't start a
self-service market here,

please sell me your property.
I'll pay whatever you ask!

I produce a line of women
and children's clothes.

I've been wanting
to go into retailing.

This place is perfect!
It's so accessible.

I want it badly.

Excuse me. My Mother has
already agreed to the idea

of opening a self-service store.

- Oh, really?
- Yes.

That's too bad...

I guess you'll allow me

to put some of my products
up in your new store.

Welcome!
I have tea ready for you.

This is my older sister, Hatsuko.

- I'm Kawabe.
- Nice to meet you.

You had an older sister?

I thought you only had a younger
sister who's away at college.

We're not really related.

I help out with the
housekeeping here.

Please.

Why didn't you tell
me about her?

How old is she?

She's 29.

- Is she married?
- Not yet.

She's too old for marriage.

That means she
will be here forever!

She's nice and
she is a hard worker.

You don't understand...

Please come inside.

We thought about
taking you out to lunch,

but I wanted you both
to see how we really live.

Please don't consider me as a guest.
I'm soon to be a family member.

Your sashimi was wonderful!

We got the fish
fresh this morning.

I had no idea your mother
took a course

in running a
self-service store.

You made me waste
my breath on her!

She went to Kyoto
without telling me

to take a first-hand
look at a self-service store.

- Really?
- Yes.

Then what you must realize,

is that you must use your
entire lot here for a new building.

The more you carry,
the bigger your profits.

That's logical,
but it's not all that easy.

I'm sure Hitoshi has told you
that I'm willing to finance it all!

It'll be a low-interest
loan over a long period.

Don't worry about it!

My daughter is going to
be a part of your family.

I'll be an investor.

No, I can't possibly
ask you for money.

We can get the money on our own.

I'll make you a deal.

In exchange, you'll provide space
in the new store for my products.

It'll be a success!

Most of the customers
for my clothing are women.

Once we make a success
of it at this location,

we'll build other stores.

And my products
will sell and sell!

It'll be like running
a chain of stores.

I will gladly give you
the initial funding!

Let's look ahead to the future.

I'll do my best.

Let's get an architect
to put together an estimate.

Will you let me handle it?

- Yes. Please take care of it.
- Good!

I'm so glad I came here today.
Everything is working out.

Please continue being
good to my daughter.

I ask the same of you for my son.

I'll be right there
to help you out front!

No. All the deliveries are done.

I'm sorry you had to
work so hard today.

Where is Hitoshi?

He went to see them off.
He isn't back yet.

I'm glad it all went well.

I think that Michiko is
a good match for Hitoshi.

He has a soft side to him.

A businessman needs a strong
woman like that at his side.

Hasn't her mother
taught her anything?

She didn't even clear
the dishes from the table!

She's not a guest!
She wants to be Hitoshi's wife.

Mother...

She ignored you, too.

She knows you're
one of the family.

She probably thinks
I'm just the housekeeper.

She's just got nerve!

Don't pass judgment
on her already.

She's probably spoiled
being their only daughter.

So let's give her a break.

How can Hitoshi fall for her?

Don't spoil it for them!

I can't help it.
Her father is just as bad.

He's already talking
as if he owns this store!

He wants to design it,

and he wants us to devote
space for his products.

I don't need him pushing
me around like that!

Hitoshi is acting
as if he's so grateful.

He's so happy to get the money.

He'd better be careful,
or that man will take over!

Mother!

Hitoshi could have his pick of girls,
but he has to have this one?!

It can't be helped,
Hitoshi loves her.

Nowadays, a parent's
opinion doesn't count.

But I don't like the idea of
that girl coming to live with us.

And her father is worse!

Even if we do rebuild,

I will not take any
money from that man!

But...

I can raise the
money on my own!

Oshin had always
done things on her own,

and Michiko's father had now
intruded upon her sacred ground.

Episode 246

From the time Oshin
met Kawabe Michiko,

the girl Hitoshi intended
to marry, and her father,

she did not like either of them.

- I'm back!
- Welcome home!

Sorry, I had to have coffee
with Michiko and her father.

Did they leave all right?

Yes. Thanks for
all your help today.

They complimented your cooking.

I just put together
something simple.

Isn't he a generous man?

He's got good business sense, too.

I guess that's how he got to be
such a big manufacturer of clothing.

With him on our side,
we have nothing to fear!

You're too naive.

He means to take
over this business.

He's out to take us
for everything we've got!

But, Mother...

He's taking me lightly
because I'm a woman.

I won't let him take
advantage of me!

You're being biased.

What are you talking about?

Whose store does
he think this is anyway?

I won't let him have his way.

That's no way to talk.

He's been researching this self-
service concept for a long time!

He's just trying to help us out.

You're taking it all wrong.
Something is wrong with you.

I can do it on my own!

It's a completely
new concept in Japan.

We need somebody to teach us.

I'd rather not have
anybody interfering.

Don't start talking
like that now!

I don't intend to oppose
your marriage to Michiko.

It's your future wife
we're talking about.

Besides, parents don't
have much of a say nowadays.

This Tanokura Store is mine.
I won't allow anyone to interfere.

You'd better remember that!

Hitoshi...

Try to understand how she feels.

It used to be just the two
of you running this business.

Now there's going
to be a third person.

It's hard for her to accept that.

No matter how wonderful
a person she may be.

That's human nature.

I'd be resentful too,
if I were in her shoes.

And her father is trying
to horn in on our business.

Because she'd struggled herself,

I thought Mother would
be forgiving of others,

but I guess not when
her own son is involved.

I used to think that my mother

would take kindly to any
woman I chose as my bride.

This was only the first meeting.

Mother will get
used to Michiko soon.

It sure isn't easy taking a wife...

Michiko is having
a hard time, too.

You'll have to keep the peace
between Mother and Michiko.

Maybe I should have
let her pick a wife for me.

Are you ready to give Michiko up?

No...

Then you'll have to work harder at
making everything work smoothly.

Let Mother do what
she wants with the store.

Mother...

- I'm taking the day off.
- Where are you going?

I've written down the
purchases we need.

I'll be back by evening,
but don't be alarmed if I'm late.

Take care.

Did she tell you
where she is going?

No.

Do you have any idea?

[Namiki]

Hello...

- Hello, Oshin!
- It's been so long.

My husband and I
always talk about you.

Please, come inside.
He'll be so happy to see you.

Oshin is here.

I'm glad to see you
are looking so well.

You, too.

We were just going
to have some tea.

Please join us.

That was delicious tea.

You live here in
such quiet surroundings.

Compared to my hectic life.

I let my managers
run the store for me.

Kota has had a rough
time of it in his youth.

I just want him to relax now.

Oshin has been
through a lot, too.

We both lived through
some tough times.

I no longer have
to manage my store.

I'm still in the midst of turmoil.

I have some lobster and
abalone caught fresh this morning.

I know Kota likes
them very much.

Thank you.

Ohisa used to give us fresh
seafood when we'd go to visit her.

Now that she's gone,

we don't even go to
the seashore anymore.

Thank you for bringing
us memories of her.

Please enjoy some
sake with Oshin tonight.

Please enjoy your stay.

You seem very happy.

I don't know if you'd
call this happiness...

I never want to
be that busy again.

I envy you.

I don't know when I'll be
able to enjoy life as you do.

Aren't you the happiest when
you have hardships to overcome?

I've come to you
again for some help...

You are the only one

I can really feel comfortable
with at times like these.

What can I do for you?

Are you aware of the
self-service concept in retail?

Yes.

It comes with
the convenience

of using cash registers
and things like that.

Are you thinking
of getting into that?

My son is very interested,
but it will cost money.

I'm not sure if it's
worth the investment.

If I were younger,
I'd have done it, too.

Your location is perfect.

You really think so?

I've looked into it.

I'd say you meet all the
qualifications for success.

I'm surprised...

You still have a lot of ambition.

I'm a little afraid.

We're not in any dire
need for food or money.

But I will do it.

I've seen businesses
slip away from me before.

Even if I should
fail again this time,

I will just start
over from scratch.

You haven't changed...

I just came from the bank,
and they are willing

to make me a loan
using my land as collateral

if I can get a guarantor
to sign for me.

It's a large sum of money,

so they need a creditable
person as my guarantor.

I'd like to ask you
to be my guarantor...

I'll be glad to help
you in any way I can.

Thank you very much.

I'm always coming to you
for help when I'm in trouble...

Won't you ever have
peace in your life?

It can't be helped...

This will be my last big project.

I know you're busy,
so take care of yourself.

Would you like
some tea and rice?

No. I've had plenty to eat.

Where did you eat?

Did you make kasu-zuke
with all the amadai?

What are you talking about?

Where were you all this time?

We were all worried,
and had to do your share of work!

It's about the money
to build our new store.

The bank will give us a loan!

Tell Mr. Kawabe
that it's already set.

We'll design and build
the store ourselves.

So tell him we won't
be needing his help.

What's going on?

Why ask for his help when we can do
everything right here on our own?

You agreed to let
Mr. Kawabe help!

We can't cancel out...
It's too late!

I didn't know about
the bank loan then.

Mother!

This is my store.

I don't want any
help from anyone!

Delicious...

Episode 247

Welcome!

Is the owner in?

Just a moment, please.

I see...

- Oshin!
- Yes?

Mr. Kawabe is here to see you.

- Show him in.
- No! I'll go out there.

Just have him come in here.

I don't want him
to see us like this.

I'll take him out for
coffee or something.

Have him see our plans.

- No.
- Why not?

I haven't told him
about our plans yet.

I told you to tell him!

I didn't expect him
to come over so soon.

Then this will be a
good chance to tell him.

- Show him in, Hatsuko.
- Okay.

No, Hatsuko!

Just calm down!
It's disgraceful.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

Thank you for that wonderful
sashimi you made for us.

It wasn't much.

- Please come inside.
- Thank you.

Excuse me.

I talked to an architect
as soon as I got home,

and he insisted on
coming to see the place.

This is Mr. Kosaka,
the architect.

And this is Mr. Hirata.
He's an architect.

Mr. Takabayashi is from
the cash register company.

They're both giving us
their opinion and advice.

I thought you wanted us
to handle the details.

Thank you, but I can't possibly
ask you to do so much for us.

Please don't worry about it.

Mr. Kosaka knows a lot
about what we have in mind!

Mr. Hirata has seen real
supermarkets in America,

so he knows a lot about them.

And Mr. Takabayashi will
lend us his expertise, too.

With these professionals,
we will be just fine.

- Mrs. Tanokura...
- I'm sorry!

I should have told
you about it earlier.

Apologizing doesn't
do much good.

This self-service
concept is new in Japan,

and I'm very serious about it!
I can't let amateurs handle it.

These two gentle-
men are veterans.

Then what about us?

The Tanokura Store is yours,
and you can do as you please,

but we will be
financing this new store.

It's only natural that I get to
pick the architect and planner.

I have my hopes built up
for this new self-service store,

and I have my own
specifications for it!

I'm sorry that you
had to waste your time.

No waste of time at all.

I've arranged for my own
financing from the bank.

We won't have to bother
you with the details anymore.

Thank you for all
your help thus far.

Do you realize how
much this will cost you?

I'm sure you are
mortgaging this property,

but the bank couldn't possibly
be lending you enough!

Yes, I know.

That's why we're discussing plans
to work within our own set budget.

There's no need to worry.
It will cost a lot

to tear this existing
building down, and rebuild,

but we can also retain
what's here and just add on.

This broken down old house?!

A self-service store
has to be new and clean.

And it has to offer
a sense of luxury!

You can never understand
what I have in mind!

I hope to open our new
store by the end of the year.

I'm sure we'll be needing
your help in the future as well.

How dare she!
She's embarrassed you.

Hitoshi should've
told us sooner.

Mrs. Tanokura doesn't want
us telling her what to do.

Is that right?

That old woman is something else.
She's not an easy cat to skin.

Can't Hitoshi even talk to her?

Maybe you should give
up on marrying Hitoshi.

Why marry a man who
is controlled by his mother?

It's not too late.

But, Father...

You're right.

Doesn't Hitoshi realize that
he needs financial help from us?

And he still can't
convince his mother about it?

He sounds hopeless...

Don't worry.
I can handle it.

If it's just that you want a new
outlet for your line of clothing,

I'll convince Hitoshi.

You'll get what you want without
having to spend money for it.

She is not that
easy to deal with.

I know that now.
You won't stand a chance.

She'll just make you cry.

The days of in-laws
making brides cry are over!

I'll just get Hitoshi
to see things my way.

You don't seem to
understand that old lady yet.

I'm not that weak,

and I don't expect to live
under the same roof with her.

Buy us a house near the store,
and Hitoshi and I will live there.

I might not be able to
allow you to marry him.

Why?

I can't give my daughter
up to them for nothing!

You think you can build all this
with just money from the bank?

The plans are all
within the budget.

What about store
fixtures and refrigerators?

And what about
the cash registers?

Mr. Takabayashi worked
all that into the budget.

The new house will have
a second floor, for you.

I'm surprised the bank
loaned us so much.

It's this property.
The value has gone up.

Our business has
been doing well, too.

We have a fine guarantor, too.

This Mr. Namiki again?

We'll have to do right by him.

How do you know this Mr. Namiki?

- We're friends.
- Just friends?

It doesn't concern you.

You always say that!

Mr. Namiki has always helped us.

So don't forget that.

What does he do?

Thanks, that feels great!
Shall we get to bed?

Well...?

Good night.

- Tea is ready!
- Okay.

Have your tea
before it gets cold.

We will.

- Here you go.
- Thanks.

There is a letter
for you from Hatsuko.

They're going to rebuild
the store and make it bigger.

They'll be operating
a self-service store.

They want me to come home for
the groundbreaking ceremony.

She says to come before
the construction starts.

Go on home.

I'm sure your mother
wants to see you.

I guess so, and I know
they all worry about you, too.

It says so in the letter.

Please tell them I'm fine.

Tell them they're taking
good care of me here.

Do you mean that?

I'm happy to be
able to live peacefully.

And I like watching
everybody work.

That makes me feel good, too.

The master's wife
was telling me,

it's hard to get young
people to work up here.

It's lonely up here,
and there's nothing to do.

She thinks you're
strange for liking it here.

I love the smell of clay, too.

And the atmosphere in
the workshop is very nice.

I like the color of the
flames in the kiln, too.

I'm able to forget
everything when I'm here.

I'd like to spend
my whole life here.

Then that's what I'll
tell Mother and Hatsuko.

I'm sure they will
be happy to hear it.

Hello, Nozomi!

Are you back for the ceremony?

As one of the family,
it's my duty.

Mother is in the back.

I'm home.

I knew you'd come home.

Thanks for the letter.

How is Yuri?

She's fine.

I think she likes it up there.

She works hard,
and people like her.

I'm glad.

- Welcome home, Nozomi.
- I'm home.

So Hitoshi has got
you thinking his way.

At first, but now I think this
will be my final challenge in life.

I want to do this
without help from anyone.

Tanokura Shin will have
another day of glory!

This is my present.

Oshin had wanted to take a
stand against Michiko's father.

As a result, she was
starting a new life at age 55.

Episode 248

Please send over
food for 30 people.

Yes.

I want to make sure
there's enough for everybody.

Yes, 11:00 is fine.
Thank you.

You've invited that many
people to the ceremony?

It sounds like a lot of work.

We should cook
the food ourselves,

but that would
be too much work.

That's why I just
ordered catered bento.

I thought you were
against this new store idea.

I guess it's all because
Hitoshi is getting married.

It has nothing to do with that.

But I thought her
father was pushing for it.

Isn't he going to
give you the financing?

No! I got the money
all on my own.

Why?

Hitoshi wanted to,
but I didn't want

to owe Hitoshi's bride's
family any money.

I understand, but...

Maybe it's because I'm stubborn.
I don't want anyone's help.

You shouldn't have
to take such risks.

I thought so at first,

but as I began talking
to the banks about a loan,

I started feeling like I
wanted to do it all on my own.

I've been studying the concept
for this new system for the store.

Now I'm very excited
about all of this.

At age 55, I did have
my reservations,

but even if I should fail,

I wouldn't owe
anybody anything.

It would just be my own loss.

I guess I was born to do this!

If it's what you want to do,
I have no complaints.

Congratulations!

Have a drink.

Thanks.

If I fail, we won't be able to drink
sake with you like this anymore.

Don't talk like that.

Don't worry. Michiko's
father will help us out.

I don't care who you marry,

but I will not have anything
to do with her family!

I won't let anybody
meddle in our store!

She sure is headstrong...

Isn't having this new
store your big dream?

Yeah.

Now mother has
made it all possible.

Do you still need
to marry Michiko?

Or are you still
going through with it?

The Tanokura Store
needs a suitable young bride.

And Michiko fits the bill?

Yes. She's strong and cheerful.

She is somebody
we can count on.

Her family can be
counted on, too.

Anything can happen in business.

Mother can't do
everything on her own.

She needs help,

and Michiko's
father can help her.

He loves his daughter,

so he won't let anything
happen to jeopardize our store.

He's your safety net?

You can talk like that because
you have no responsibilities.

Mother shed sweat and blood
to make this store what it is.

I can't let it fail.

It's my responsibility
to make sure it works.

No matter what you say,
I have to do it!

I envy you...
You have no worries.

You'll never know
about the troubles I have.

Hatsuko.

You'd better go to bed.
Tomorrow is a big day.

I'm going to bed, too.

Go on. Drink some more.

Where's Mother?

She is getting her
kimono ready for tomorrow.

She wants to wear
her formal kimono.

Never mind me.
You must have preparations, too.

I don't have to dress up.
I'm only the housekeeper here.

You're part of the family,
attend the ceremony.

I have to attend
to our guests first.

You'd better start thinking
about your own situation here.

Hitoshi is getting married.

Don't worry about me.

But...

We'll be busier once
the new store opens.

I'll let the new bride
manage the house,

and I will just
work at the store.

That will be easier, too.

You can't do that
for the rest of your life.

I can sew that for you.

No. You're already tired.

- I can do it.
- Thanks.

Find Hatsuko a good husband.

Nozomi.

She gets her share of offers,

but Hatsuko always
refuses to marry.

You talk to her.

I'm already 29.

I only get offers from widowers,
and I certainly don't want that.

I'm happy just being
able to stay here.

Things will be tougher on you once
Hitoshi brings his bride into the house.

Don't be silly!
Hatsuko is my daughter.

No bride is going to
push anyone around here.

Not while I'm here.

Hurry, the ceremony
will be ending soon.

Pour the sake for the
people for the toast.

- Congratulations.
- Thank you.

Have a seat.

I'm glad the weather
held up for the ceremony.

Thank you for coming.

Please enjoy the meager
meal we've prepared.

We'll be leaving soon.

Let's see the final plans.

We will knock out the
walls of the old building

and connect it
with the new section.

I'm talking about
plans for the store interior.

This isn't final yet.

Mr. Takabayashi thinks we
should start with a plan like this.

We'll be placing our
emphasis on fish and produce.

We'll also have condiments,
other foods and sweets...

Hold it! Where is the
clothing department?

We've decided to
put it aside for now.

What?

We just don't have
the room for it.

You promised to
let me sell clothing here!

You can't do this
without telling me!

I'm not confident
that clothes will sell.

I told you, I'll send over
clerks who are trained

specifically to sell
our line of clothing!

For the amount of space it takes,
the profit percentage is too low.

Selling is the name
of the game here!

I'll be delivering my products
straight from the factory.

It will be cheaper that way!

Why wasn't I consulted first?

Tell him we will
think about it.

I will think about it

if you'll let me have the
inventory at discount prices.

Let's discuss this later.

I'm very sorry.

My mother only listens to that man
from the cash register company.

I apologize.

This whole project was my idea.

Now she is cutting
me out of the whole deal!

I'll have to rethink this
whole marriage proposal

if this is how it's going to be.

Don't worry.
Once I'm with Hitoshi,

such things will
never happen again.

Right, Hitoshi?

I had no idea about
this latest plan.

I will talk to my mother.

If there's no room
to sell clothing,

utilize the upstairs rooms
she is building for us.

Sundries and such
can be sold upstairs.

That's true for sundries,
but not clothes.

Clothing is targeted for
the impulsive shoppers.

Then where will we live?

Father will buy us
a house near the store.

We're on our way to
see a house right now.

You'll come with us,
won't you?

Yes, but...

Nowadays, it's almost expected that
children live apart from their parents.

It's good to be together,
just the two of you.

I got you two new sweaters
and some underwear.

I got a sweater for Yuri, too.
Tell her not to catch a cold.

I will.
Thank you.

We also got a present
for your master, too.

Hitoshi has already
decided to marry Michiko.

If you make her father angry,
Hitoshi will suffer.

I know that,

but I don't like the idea of a
bride's father being so involved.

Just give him some space
to sell his clothing line!

I know I have to compromise,
but I won't make it easy on him.

I'm just showing him that
he can't push me around.

I wish you all the luck.

Just don't make it
too hard for Hitoshi.

They will be living here
with you, won't they?

Or will they live
somewhere else?

Of course they
will be living here!

They can't live
away from the store.

We will need
more employees, too.

I expect Hitoshi's wife to work.

Then you have to try
harder to get along.

Nowadays, the groom's family
has to be nice to the bride.

Times sure have changed...

When I was young,

my in-laws never gave a
thought as to how I was feeling.

I'm saying all this
because I'm worried

about my family,
and you, too.

I don't want any trouble
cause you worry.

It seems like yesterday
that I was having trouble

with my mother-in-law,
and now I'm the mother-in-law.

Thank you.

The wedding was to take place as
soon as the new store was complete.

Oshin was to start
feeling the difficulties

associated with the new store,

as well as those dealing
with her son's new bride.

Episode 249

[Under Construction]

Construction for the new
Tanokura Store was under way.

Oshin was still selling fish
and produce out of her old store,

and was also busy studying

how to operate a
self-service retail business.

Did you go out
to take orders?

Your son told me we wouldn't
be going out to take orders

once the new store opens,
so there's no need to go.

Welcome home.
How did the seminar go?

Why did you stop
taking outside orders?

You promised to
carry on as usual

while we wait for the
new store to be completed!

We're shorthanded.
Besides, there's no profit in it.

You're all worthless!

This is what happens
when I leave the house!

I was planning to go

and explain the changes
to all our regular customers.

That would help advertise
our new store, too.

Hitoshi is no longer just a boy.

He has his own ideas
about the business.

Listen to his opinions
and stop complaining.

He does things that
make me complain!

While you were gone,
he went out each morning

to buy the fish
and produce for the store,

and he's been running
the store just fine.

He says he picked a bride
suitable for our new store.

I think Hitoshi
misses having a father...

He's counting on
Michiko's father

to be a strong backer for
our new self-service store.

Who needs a backer like that!

Don't talk like that.
We should all help one another.

Don't let Hitoshi be caught in
the middle between the two of you.

We might need Michiko's
family's help one day.

I know.

I'll let Mr. Kawabe sell his
products in our new store.

Hitoshi has won
you over to his side!

Nozomi is worried about
your stubbornness, too.

About the wedding...

I think it's best
if it takes place

before the store's
grand opening.

Hitoshi asked you
to tell me that?

I thought it might be best, too.

So he's really going
to marry that girl?

It's not as if there
aren't any other women...

Don't say that!

I don't really care
when the wedding is.

Please be good to Michiko.

She's used to being
pampered at home,

and now she will
be living with us.

She must be very
nervous about it.

I suppose so...

- Hello.
- Come in.

How was Tokyo?

I realized now how much work

it's going to take to
run this new business.

Just learning to operate the
cash register is a lot of work.

I'm sure it is.

I wanted to ask you
about the sales area upstairs.

What upstairs sales area?

Didn't you change plans
to build a sales area

where your son and his
wife were going to live?

I've made no such changes.

That's strange...

Your son talked to me
about it while you were away.

I thought it was your idea...

This man sells
foreign-made foods.

Michiko's father says
he can help us out.

He can sell his products to us
cheaper than any other place.

Mr. Kawabe and I
go back a long way.

We'll call you once
the construction is done.

Thank you for coming.

- Mother.
- I need to talk to you!

I'll come back again
once you're settled.

I'm sorry. Give my
regards to Mr. Kawabe.

That's no way to treat someone

that my future
father-in-law sent over!

You want the upstairs
to be another sales area?

Yes, the more space
we have the better.

You're supposed to live
up there with your wife!

We found another
house to live in.

It's a little far from here...

But we couldn't
find anything else.

Is this what Michiko wants?

No, I think it's
for the best, too.

Living together can
cause a lot of problems.

Mr. Kawabe is
buying us the house.

Have Michiko come
see me tomorrow.

What for?

She's going to be
marrying into this family.

There are things I
must talk to her about!

- What's the emergency?
- Sorry.

Why don't you ever come
up to Nagoya to see me?

We can't really relax
meeting like this.

I'm too busy with the
construction and all.

Then let's go
somewhere quiet to talk.

My mother is waiting...

- Your mother?
- Yeah.

You sent for me to
see your mother?

You two don't know
each other very well yet.

I can't blame her for
wanting to talk to you

before we get married.

Why didn't you tell me
that over the phone?

Don't spring these
surprises on me!

Just listen to her quietly,
then she'll be happy.

- Thank you for coming.
- Michiko took time off

from her schedule
because you sent for her.

I'm sorry.

It's because I heard that you
two will be living apart from us.

I have things to tell you.

First of all, I'm against
the idea of living apart.

I won't allow it.

I know it's common nowadays for
young couples to be on their own,

and if Hitoshi were an office
worker, that would be fine.

But you're to be the young
mistress of a retail business,

so you have to live
where you do your business.

That way, you're always on hand
to help out at the store, too.

So you have to live here.
Isn't that so?

I wouldn't count on you if we
had a large number of employees.

But we're starting this
business with loans to repay,

so we need the help
of every family member.

Hatsuko has been keeping
house for us all this time,

but I expect you to be
taking over her job here.

You'll be the new wife
here at the Tanokura Store.

It's too late!

We have already
paid for the new house.

If Michiko plans on being a
member of the Tanokura family,

I want her living here.

The store will
belong to you two.

If you don't like the idea,
you have no right to marry my son.

Mother...

If you refuse to live with us,

I certainly won't force
you to marry my son.

- Excuse me.
- Wait, Michiko.

Mother!

Michiko!

You were so harsh on her.
What if this causes a breakup?

It's best to let one's
wishes be known.

We don't want trouble
after they're already married.

But...

If this should cause a breakup,

then she's not the
right one for Hitoshi.

But Hitoshi...

He's letting that girl
lead him around.

If he wants to leave, let him!

Mother!

It's best to say all these
things before they get married.

Otherwise, we will
all have troubles later.

And if she insists
on marrying Hitoshi,

she'll come knowing
what to expect.

How dare she treat
my daughter like that!

Just forget about this marriage!

You couldn't possibly live
with a mother-in-law like that.

She'll nag you to death!

It's no laughing matter!

What Mrs. Tanokura says,
does make sense.

It's only natural
that the young owner

and his wife live where
their store is located.

Dear!

If you don't want to do that,
then forget about marrying Hitoshi!

That's irresponsible!

This whole marriage
thing is your idea,

and it's you who's going to have
to deal with this mother-in-law!

Please talk to Mrs. Tanokura.

Tell her that I don't
want to live with her.

If you don't want to live
with her, don't marry Hitoshi.

I want to marry him!

Then live in their house!

Father!

The Tanokuras are taking

a big gambling on
this new store of theirs,

and if you want to
marry into the family,

it's your duty as
their bride to live there!

If I were Oshin, I'd want his
son's wife to be like that, too.

If you don't fit the bill,
don't marry.

Whose side are you on...?

I'm thinking of
what's best for you.

I've had trouble with
that Mrs. Tanokura,

but she's got some guts!

Young people dominate
their parents today.

Yet she has the
courage to tell Michiko off!

You will never be
able to handle her.

Forget the whole thing!

Dinner is ready.

Hitoshi!

Leave him be.

Marriage sure isn't
an easy thing...

If only Yuu were still alive,
then there would be no trouble.

Mother.

Oshin felt certain that
Hitoshi would leave the house.

For him to do so wouldn't be a
shameful thing as a man in love.

She would even
respect him for it.

But how would she run
the new store all alone?

Episode 250

Oshin had decided to expand
her small existing store

into a large self-service
retail business,

and she was doing
all the planning herself.

Of course, she wasn't sure if
the new store would succeed.

In the 1950s, these concepts
were still new in Japan,

so it was a big risk
and she had her doubts.

But Oshin had things
that kept her mind occupied

other than the new store.

It concerned
Hitoshi's wedding plans.

Welcome home.

Where is Hitoshi?

I don't think he's feeling well.

He is still in bed?

I can unload by myself.
Go on and have your breakfast.

He's just upset.
That's all.

Hitoshi and Michiko
were already going ahead

with their plans to buy a house,

but you came along and
put a damper on that idea.

I'm not being unreasonable.
A bride has to live

with the groom's family
when we run our own business.

A merchant's
wife has to be able

to mind the store as
well as the household.

Mr. Kawabe should know that.

He shouldn't have gone ahead
and bought them that house!

Nowadays, most newly married
couples live in their own house.

That is expected.

I don't care.
I'll follow the old way!

Once the new store opens,

we will need all
the help we can get.

Young brides have to help, too.

If she doesn't like it,
then forget about marriage!

Please fix me something, too.
I'm starving, so I can't sleep.

You went to bed
without eating last night.

You don't work,
yet you still get hungry?

Leave him be.

Go and change.
No eating in your pajamas.

Yeah...

I will give up on
marrying Michiko.

You win!

I don't want to have to
give up on you and our store

just to marry Michiko.

If you throw me out,

I will have to become an adoptive
husband with Michiko's family.

I don't want that!

I'll find someone who is willing
to live here with us and work hard.

Hitoshi...

And you call yourself a man?

If you really love Michiko,

have the courage to convince
her to live here with us.

I'm sick of all this!

You never liked
Kawabe to begin with...

Given that fact,
how could this marriage work?

I don't want to be
caught in the middle.

It's better if we
just call it off.

We can run the new store without
Mr. Kawabe's help anyway,

so let's just do it.

Good morning!

Good morning.
Thanks for coming in.

Mr. Kawabe is here.

Shall we show him in here?

Have him wait for
me out in the store.

- I'll be right there.
- Okay.

What is he doing here?

He's probably here
to complain to me...

Tell him I'm out.
You handle it!

I was just out looking
at the construction.

It seems to be going well.

Thank you.

I'm sorry for
coming over so early,

but I thought I'd
better take care of this.

Michiko. Come in here.

- Good morning.
- You came, too?

I'm sorry for the
way I acted yesterday.

No. It's my fault.

We have come to
you with our answer.

We sure had some
trouble last night!

Where is Hitoshi?

He is out right now.

He isn't here?

You can just tell his mother.

- Please come inside.
- Thank you.

I know your daughter
is very precious to you,

and I know you have
your expectations.

I asked Michiko to
come live with us

because of our situation.

And I'm sure you're
both upset about it.

But we are at
a very crucial stage

with our new store
about to open and all.

That's why we need the
help of every family member.

I agree with you completely.
It's as you say.

Young people today
just want things easy.

And like a fool,

I let my daughter talk me
into buying them a house.

My wife had a very
hard time with my mother.

She was a very strong woman.

My wife used to cry everyday.
Because of that,

my wife wanted us to move
into a house of our own,

I was caught in the middle.

People of our generation have all
gone through the same experience.

I suffered under my
mother-in-law, too.

You, too?

Yes. That's why I don't
want my daughter

to marry a man whose
mother lives with him.

Now I'm here demanding that
my son's wife come live with us.

But in business,
it's a necessity.

I understand that very well.

I think Michiko realizes now
that if she wants to marry Hitoshi,

she has to live here with you.

My wife and I have no
objections whatsoever.

- Well, then...
- It's all right!

She is spoiled,

and I'm sure she will
cause you a lot of problems,

but please overlook her faults.

If she is really willing to
live with us, I'm very happy.

I know she's precious to you,

and I'll do my very
best to look after her.

I never want to do to her
what my mother-in-law did to me.

I feel safe and confident
in putting Michiko

under your supervision and care.

She is not worthy,
but please take good care of her.

Thank you.
I feel much better now.

Hitoshi.

Mr. Kawabe and
Michiko have agreed

that she should
live here with us.

No. You're not
supposed to be here now.

I forgot.

Go out the window
and climb down outside.

- I'll get your shoes.
- Thanks.

I'm so relieved...

Let's do it this way...

Have their quarters
built right away,

then we can have the
wedding and reception,

and they can move in
before the new store opens.

I'll discuss it with Hitoshi
as soon as he gets home.

I'm home.

Oh, you're both here?

What brings you here so early?

It's about Michiko living
here with your family...

You can have it
Japanese or Western style,

so just tell the builders
what you want.

This will be your castle.

So I really have to live here?

Thanks for deciding to do this.

I surprised myself.
I guess I really love you.

You'd better be good to me.

You'll be the only one
here I can count on.

I know that.

If you don't protect me,
I will just return home.

Don't worry. Mother and
Hatsuko are really nice.

They won't give you a hard time.

I won't let them pick on me.

Brides don't just have
to take it or cry about it.

Those days are over!

I have to go out to
get my vegetables now.

Since I don't get to
come here that often,

I have one more
thing on my mind.

It's about the wedding
and the reception.

I haven't gotten
around to that yet.

This construction is
costing me a lot of money.

I had planned on having
a very small gathering.

I'd like to be able
to handle it all.

I have many people
I must invite,

so we can't just
have a small wedding.

I know you have many
business associates,

but since Michiko is
going to be our bride,

I feel we should
be the ones to decide.

Yes, I know that,

but just so that I can
save face with my people.

I asked the builders to put
in a small kitchen upstairs,

for making snacks
and other light meals.

We were just talking
about the wedding.

Michiko told me it's
going to be in Nagoya.

All my friends are there,
and this little town

has no hall big
enough to fit everyone.

That's right.

We don't care if
it's Nagoya, do we?

We don't have any
relatives or friends

in this town that
we have to invite.

Please go ahead
and make all the plans.

Where are you going?

She's going out to
get her vegetables.

I'm hungry, and Hitoshi
hasn't eaten either.

Take us somewhere.

You missed breakfast,

so I've made you
something to eat.

Thanks.

It sure is tough bringing
two families together...

Episode 251

In December of 1955,

Hitoshi's wedding was
about to take place.

Hello, Mother.

Welcome home.

Congratulations.
So tomorrow is the big day.

Hitoshi is already in Nagoya?

He went today to
make some preparations.

Shouldn't you be there with him?

Michiko's family is
taking care of everything.

Father would have
been very happy.

If he were still alive,

he would never allow this
ridiculous wedding to take place.

Mother...

I sure didn't expect
the wedding to be in Nagoya.

He's letting the bride's
family make all the decisions.

I'm tired of trying
to oppose them.

If that's what
Hitoshi wants, let it be.

But I hear you got them
to agree to live here.

The wedding ceremony
itself doesn't matter.

That's one way of looking at it.

Hatsuko wants you
to take a bath.

Tei! You sure have grown up.
You're a college girl now.

Are you on vacation?

I'm going skiing after
I attend the wedding.

- What a life!
- I want to have fun now.

I'll never get to go skiing

if I end up with a
mother-in-law like Mother.

Don't make fun of me!

Be nice to Michiko.

You'll never find
anyone willing to live

with a mother-
in-law these days.

If you pick on her,
she'll leave right away!

Nobody like a mother-
in-law nowadays.

What's this world coming to?

When I was young,

the mother-in-law had
the last word on everything!

We have to destroy
such old institutions,

in order for women to
win freedom and equality.

Girls growing up after
the war all have such ideas,

so you're going to
have a tough time.

Oh, come on.

We had to serve
our mother-in-law.

Now that I finally
get to be an in-law,

I have to do what
my son's bride wants?

The times have changed...

Your generation
was just unfortunate.

Michiko is great.
You should be grateful.

I'll never marry into
a family with in-laws!

No matter how rich the family is!

Do you think 20 money
envelopes will be enough?

One has to tip a lot
of people at a wedding.

I got some crisp
bills at the bank.

We can't be giving
out wrinkled bills.

Thanks. I didn't even
think of that.

I pity Hitoshi's bride.
She will forever be

compared to Hatsuko.
About everything.

You can never find
anyone like Hatsuko.

I don't think you'll ever find
anyone good enough to please you.

Yes, I know that,
and I don't expect it.

But it's too bad Hitoshi
didn't marry Yuri...

Mother!

All right! I'll never
say another word!

I'll just be grateful
that a bride is willing

to live with me,
and I will be good.

- Are you coming, Tei?
- Yes.

Oshin had her own expectations
regarding a bride for Hitoshi.

Michiko wasn't what
Oshin had in mind.

The bride and groom were set

[Closed for the Day]

to go on a skiing
honeymoon in Hokkaido.

- Welcome back!
- I'm home.

How is everyone
at the Tanokuras?

They're all fine.

Your mother must be relieved.

Most of the wedding guests
were from the other family.

I don't think Mother
was too happy.

It's tough marrying a rich girl.

At least Hitoshi found
someone suitable.

Yuri...

Never mind me.

I'm just glad Hitoshi
found someone he likes.

Master wants to see you.

I'm thinking of letting you

put some of your works
into the kiln's next firing.

In the past, you've only made
things based on what I wanted.

But this time, you can
start making your own pieces,

and you'll get to put
your own name on them.

I'll even let you exhibit
them for our next show

if you have any good pieces.

Maybe it's a little too soon,
but you've studied enough.

Let your own talents
take shape now.

Exhibiting your works
will be a good idea.

Thank you very much!

But I won't let you fire them in
my kiln if they aren't any good.

I understand.

Hitoshi and his bride were coming
home from their honeymoon,

and a new way of life was begin-
ning at the Tanokura household.

That's so pretty!

I wanted to dress up
the young couple's room.

I'll make a big dinner!

Good idea. it will be their
first meal here with us.

Michiko will have to
start working tomorrow.

I can still help out
with the housework.

No, Michiko is
the new wife now,

and she'll do everything
around the house now.

You've worked so hard.

You need a break.

Hitoshi is late...

They said they would
be home by evening.

I even have the
bath ready for them.

Maybe you should bathe first.

No, I'll let them
take a bath first.

It's a special occasion.

We'll wait until they
come home before we eat.

You must be hungry.

This is a special
dinner for them.

I want to enjoy it with them.

We got fresh sea bream,
abalone and lobster!

See?

That's beautiful!

You sure are a pro
in the kitchen!

I'm sure Michiko is
used to eating well.

I just want her to feel at home.

She's going to be
one of us from now on.

I'll try to get along with her,
so that she won't throw me out!

Don't be silly!
You're our daughter.

You don't have to
mind Michiko at all!

Maybe they'll be on
the train arriving now.

I'll get it.

Hello, this is the
Tanokura residence.

Hitoshi?

Welcome back!

Do you want help
with your luggage?

You're still in Nagoya?

All right.
I'll put Mother on.

It's Hitoshi.

Hello, Hitoshi.

Hello?
He hung up.

What did he tell you?

He said he's staying with
Michiko's family tonight,

and they'll be home tomorrow.

He can't do that!
Get me Mr. Kawabe's number.

I'll tell him to come
home right now!

He can't go home to his bride's family on
his first night back from the honeymoon!

That's all right.
He'll be home tomorrow.

They can still make
the last train here.

Don't be angry.
It doesn't really matter.

Yes, it does matter!

You went out of your
way to make dinner, too!

The sashimi will
be bad by tomorrow.

Let's just eat. Shall I get
you some sake, too?

Let's just enjoy.

We don't get to
eat like this often.

Hatsuko...

Michiko was raised in
a different generation.

She's not like us.
She doesn't mean any harm.

But Hitoshi is with her,

and her parents
should know better, too!

They're so inconsiderate!

It doesn't really matter,
and we shouldn't get upset.

I'm sure we'll have many
more misunderstandings.

But if we get angry every time,

we'll never be happy
living with them.

You should know that.
So let's just enjoy!

Welcome home!

We're home.

We're home.

Let's go up and change first.

I'd like to speak with
you first, Michiko.

Can't it wait?

You're now a Tanokura,
and you'll do things my way now.

Please wait for me
in the back room.

What are you going
to talk to her about?

From the very first day,

Oshin and Michiko were
not getting along well together.

Episode 252

Don't cause trouble with Michiko
on her first day here with us!

All right?

Mother...

You're no longer a guest here.

Why didn't you make tea
for yourself and Hitoshi?

Never mind me.

How was the honeymoon?

We had a good time.

We have presents
for you and Hatsuko.

It's all in the suitcase.

You must be tired.

Michiko was tired,

so I thought she should
rest for a day in Nagoya.

You can't relax here, can you?

Last night, Hatsuko made dinner,
and we were all waiting for you.

I'm sorry.

That's all right.

I just thought you'd
both be here last night.

You should be the
one to make tea now.

It's your job to mind
all household matters.

Hatsuko used to do everything.

But now it's all in your hands.

Have Hatsuko teach
you how to do things.

What will Hatsuko be doing?

She'll be out in the store.

We need her to run
the new cash register.

I'd rather be in the store.
And besides,

Hatsuko already knows
how to do the housework.

She's right. Mrs. Kawabe
is very worried, too.

Michiko isn't used to housework.
I told her not to worry.

That Hatsuko will continue
to do the household chores.

Will that be all right?

- Hatsuko isn't a maid!
- Don't worry about me.

You're the new wife.

You'll do the cooking, washing,
and cleaning from now.

I'll be giving you an allowance
for all household expenses.

You'll be handling
the household budget.

I don't expect you to do everything
correctly from the very start,

but you'll get better
as time goes on.

You will have to
want to do better, too!

You stay out of it.
This isn't a man's concern!

Have Hatsuko explain to
you what needs to be done,

and where everything is kept.

Have her explain to you
the daily budget for meals.

You don't have to do everything
the way Hatsuko has been doing it.

Just learn the basics.

So starting today,
you'll handle all the chores.

Hitoshi. Go change
and get to work.

We have an order for
30 portions of sashimi.

Sashimi and broiled fish.

You'd better get started!

You didn't have to
tell her all that now.

She had to be told sometime.

It's best to set
it straight early.

Yes, but...

Sure. I don't want
to be the villain,

but some things need to be said.

Otherwise, she wouldn't
know what to do.

Look. It's nice in here.

They have cleaned it up
and even put flowers.

My mother and Hatsuko
are trying to be nice.

I want to go home...

This is your home now!

It wasn't supposed
to be like this...

Michiko.

The way I imagined it,

I would send my husband
off to work in the morning,

and I'd sit in front
of the fireplace

waiting for him to come
home to me at night.

That's the image I had!

Now your mother is treating
me like a housekeeper!

It's too late for that now...

I don't think I'll make it
as a Tanokura bride.

You'll have to try it and see!

There's no reason why
Hatsuko can do it and you can't.

Just take it easy.

- Come again!
- Thank you.

It's lunchtime,
and Hatsuko is busy.

Make tea for our employees
and the working carpenters.

About that, Michiko says
she can't handle housework.

She'd rather have Hatsuko
take care of the house,

and she will work
out here in the store.

Will that be all right?

Can you cut fish?

Here, we don't just dress up
and sell tidy little things.

We use cold water
in the middle of winter,

and we get covered
in fish scales, too.

One has to know
how to handle fish.

Of course,
you can give it a try.

It might look easy,
but it's really not.

The water is cold,

and you have to cut up
and clean a lot of fish.

I don't want you to
have to do all that.

It's a lot easier doing
household chores.

If she wants to work
out here, that's great.

Welcome!

- Welcome!
- Welcome!

We're finally done.
We finally get to eat.

You must be hungry, too.

I didn't know what to make...

Never mind.

I got us some broiled
fish from the store,

and we have cold rice.

I'll do most of the work,

so just watch me
and try to learn.

Don't feel too badly.

In the morning,

Mother gets up at six and goes down
to the beach to buy fish for the store.

Breakfast is after
she comes back,

but give her tea
before she goes off.

So get up early,
and make the hot water.

- Get up before six?
- That's right.

Then you clean up and do the
wash before Mother comes home,

and have breakfast ready.

At 11:30, get lunch ready.

Dinner is after the store closes,
so that will be about eight.

So have it ready by then.

Any free time is yours
to do as you please.

Once you get used to it, you'll
learn to make time for yourself.

Both you and Mother
work that hard?

That's what it takes
to run a retail store.

Selling fish and
produce is a lot of work.

Mother used to tie
her kids on her back

and serve customers
in the store.

Now she thinks
she has it easier.

- Michiko.
- Yes...?

Don't worry.

You'll get used to it in no time,
and things will get easier.

Mother is really quite nice.

She is not mean
or easily angered.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

We've stopped going
out to take orders,

but we still get quite a few.

Sometimes, we can't have
lunch until three or four.

Isn't it a terrible line of work?

Once the new store opens,

we won't be able to
make deliveries anymore,

and no more special orders.

I'm sick of it all anyway.

Let's have a hotpot dish tonight.

I'll bring you fish
and vegetables,

so get it ready
to go into the pot.

Okay!

Let's eat now.

All the ingredients for a
hotpot dinner are on sale today!

Thank you!

The vegetables are all over here.

You sure run a
good business here.

Thank you!

We'd better take what
we need for ourselves.

Yes. Before we forget.

Michiko?

Michiko!

She's not in her room.
Where could she be?

She's been acting strange.
I sure hope she hasn't run away.

There's no need
to call her parents.

If she's gone there,
I'm sure they'll call.

And if she's not there,
the Kawabes will worry.

So let's wait a little
longer and see.

What's she thinking anyway?

She didn't even tell me.

Hello, this is the
Tanokura residence.

Mr. Kawabe.

Is that right?
Sorry to worry you.

It's already late. I'll come
and get her tomorrow.

Thank you for calling.

- What did he say?
- Michiko has gone home.

Why?

He said she hasn't told him yet.

He called so that
we wouldn't worry.

I tried to be nice to her.
I hope it's not anything I said.

She hasn't even been
here for half a day,

and she's already gone home!

I'm sure she felt very lonely.
I was too busy to talk to her.

I'll go and bring
her back tomorrow.

Don't be silly!

A man doesn't go and
beg his wife to come home!

Then she'll never come home.

If she doesn't want to
come back, let her be!

Mother!

We're entering a
very crucial time here,

and all she can
think about is herself?

She'll never be able
to handle matters here!

I'm sick of it!

Mother!

Oshin felt very badly.

She never realized how
difficult it was to have

a relative stranger
come to live in the house.

Oshin was also
frustrated to see Hitoshi

so concerned about
his wife's welfare.

Translation: UTB Channel

Thanks to Avallac'h
and XrayMind at D-Addicts.