Original subtitles

Downloaded from YTS.MX

Toho Productions

Official YIFY movies site: YTS.MX

ONNA NO ZA (A WOMAN'S PLACE)

Starring

Hideko Takamine

Yoko Tsukasa Yuriko Hoshi

Reiko Dan Keiko Awaji Mitsuko Kusabue

Haruko Sugimura, Akemi Kita Yatsuko Tawaji, Aiko Mimasa

Akira Takarada Tatsuya Mihashi Keiju Kobayashi

Yosuke Natsuki Daisuke Kato Chishu Ryu

Director: Mikio Naruse

- Ikoi cigarettes, please. - Yes, sir.

Thank you very much.

Hello.

Hello.

How's Father?

The doctor just left, says it's nothing serious.

Is that all? And I rushed over here.

Sorry.

Hello Sister.

Natsuko, you were nearly crying on the phone.

Because Father stopped breathing for 5 minutes after he fell!

We were shocked.

Is Jiro here?

Yes, he's here.

Well then.

Come in.

Sister is here.

Our sister from Ikezawa is here.

Hello.

You must have been surprised.

He's all right, I hear?

Yes.

Matsuyo is here.

Hello.

Hello. I'm so glad he's okay.

Father tried to lift a rock in the backyard.

A huge rock that even I can't lift. He thinks he's still young.

He toppled over together with the rock! That one.

Huge rock, isn't it?

I'm not talking about the rock. How is he, Mother?

He injured the muscles in his back.

Lucky he only hurt his muscles.

What if it were a hemorrhage.

We're having a wake for him tonight!

What are you saying, Yukiko?

But...

Don't say such a thing!

Jiro, a phone call from your wife.

No!

Give it to me!

Mom!

Let her play.

How's Father?

They made a big fuss about him being unconscious, but he's all right.

Then I don't have to visit.

We have a takeout order.

10 bowls for delivery by 3 p.m. What do you think?

I'll be home soon. We can visit him later.

What is that?

We sent a telegram to Michiko in Kyushu telling her to come quickly.

But she doesn't need to come.

So you want to send a follow-up telegram? I'll do it.

Thank you.

"Father is okay. Don't worry. We will watch him."

How about, "Don't worry. Don't come."

It's under 15 letters.

You have to send it before she leaves.

How about, "Dad is all right. Don't have to come."

"Don't come." It's enough.

I wonder how Michiko is doing?

She must be having a rough time with that husband of hers.

But she fell in love and went to Kyushu with him.

Your day-off, Natsuko?

My company went bankrupt!

Small companies do poorly these days.

Do you know of any openings?

You should forget about working and get married.

Yukiko, please watch the shop for a while.

Natsuko, help out at my shop if you're free.

I'm so busy since my deliveryman quit. And Ranko is pregnant again.

Again?

I'm tired of it.

It must be a girl again. Our bloodline has mostly females.

Stop kidding!

You need a deliveryman.

One of my students owned a bakery.

He had to close his shop when he couldn't find a deliveryman.

Is that so?

His wife disappeared and left behind the children.

Don't try to scare me.

Hire one of those kids who hangs out in the street.

I don't want to deliver ramen!

Why?

Why... What do you think, Yoshiko?

About what?

Why not give it a try?

"Thank you for waiting. Three ramens, here you go!"

Sure. It's easy.

No way!

So lively today.

They've come to chat, not to see me.

A lively home is nicer home!

Some persimmons from the garden.

They're very good!

Is it true we'll lose half of our land due to the Olympic Road construction?

It's a highway, not an Olympic Road.

Father visited City Hall the other day about the matter.

So, will you move somewhere else?

You can't run your shop if you lose half of this house.

Looks like we'll have to give up this land of our ancestors.

But you already took some after the war.

I only took a small piece. It didn't amount to much at that time.

You built a nice cottage here. Mine is filthy compared to yours.

But your ramen shop is the most popular in Shibuya.

Don't kid me!

Your business seems to be going well.

Yes, I have too many students.

Teaching flower arrangement is so tiring.

It's not like your business as a landlord. You earn money without lifting a finger.

But we don't have many rooms.

I want to expand, but we don't have the money.

I might ask Father to lend to us.

Me, too.

Ken's come home.

I'm home. How's Grandpa?

He's all right.

You called Ken as well?

Because Father would rather see Ken.

Go and see him.

He looks like his father.

Exactly like him when he was a junior high student.

He does?

Jiro, do you have a cigarette?

I was in such a hurry that I forgot them.

You smoke High Light cigarettes, right? I'll bring them to you.

I'll pay.

No need to.

Yoshiko, me too.

- Ikoi cigarettes for you? - Yes.

You don't look well. You study too hard.

Yes, he studies until late every night. Poor thing.

Your studies are important, but you must take care of yourself.

Looks like I'm the one who's sick.

I was going to take the day off. But now I'll go to work.

Jiro, are you leaving? Let's go together.

I wish I had your job. You have a lot of fun.

How rude!

You have to be beautiful to sell tickets at the box office.

That's right!

Don't you have any free tickets?

None right now.

I wasted a compliment.

I'll go now. I have things to do.

Me, too.

Sister, let's go together.

Thank you for waiting.

Thank you very much.

Are you leaving?

Yes, since he looks all right.

Thank you for visiting.

We'll visit again.

What's this?

A paper towel. Very convenient. We just received them yesterday.

I've never seen this before. I'd like to try it. Can I have one?

Sure.

Looks good. I'll take one, too.

Let's go, I have a delivery to make.

Thank you.

Goodbye.

Did they leave? Wait!

Did they leave?

They're so greedy. They took cigarettes and paper towels today.

They depend on us. Everyone does when they return home.

Oh, really? She's just arrogant as she's the oldest.

That's why her husband ran out on her.

Doesn't she know where Ryokichi went?

He's with a younger woman!

How awful. I won't marry anyone.

Is that why you won't get married?

Sure. I may never marry.

Don't worry about me.

You and Yukiko go ahead and find a husband.

And, Yoshiko, too.

No, not me.

At what age did you marry into this house, Mother?

Well... I was around 28.

I remember well.

When I was in grade school, Kentaro told me that we got a new mother.

He said that you bit him on the leg when he told you.

He got a bruise.

Oh? Was he angry? I didn't listen to him since I was the youngest.

Yoshiko, you should have a talk with Matsuyo.

Yoshiko's the only outsider of this family, so it's hard for her.

You shouldn't talk like that, calling her an outsider.

Hello.

I have a class to teach. If you have time, why don't you try flower arrangement?

Thank you.

Or will you work at Jiro's shop?

You can ask for 500 yen an hour for part time work there.

What's this about?

Jiro needs help after his deliveryman quit.

He must be very busy.

Natsuko, why don't you help him? You have nothing to do.

But...

I wouldn't be embarrassed about any type of work I do.

Playing around all day is what's shameful.

Natsuko, go help him for a while.

But Natsuko doesn't want to.

I'll call you tomorrow morning.

Yes, please.

When will he move in?

I will turn him down.

Why?

It's strange that he drives a nice car at a young age.

Yet he wants to rent a 9000 yen apartment.

It's not strange these days.

But he doesn't seem upright. He dresses in weird clothing.

It's in fashion. He looks pretty cool.

Seeing the way you make eyes at them, I don't want young guys around here.

I won't run off with a young tenant like Father did.

But I think he'll come back soon. It's already been 3 months.

I don't care if he never comes back.

He will. It's his third affair that I know of.

I won't let him in.

But you will. You'll change your mind when you see him.

Making fun of me?

By the way, Miyako gave me this photograph.

She wants to know what you think.

He works for Yamashita Oil.

Their stock is doing well. It's now 250 yen, but dropped 3 yen today.

It doesn't matter that he works for a good company if he's too old.

He's already going bald!

But he'll be promoted to section manager next year.

I'm not interested even if he were president.

Let's not be conceited. You were turned down the last time.

I didn't like him.

Fine. You're not the only single girl here.

I'll show this to Umeko and Natsuko.

You're wasting your time. They are too conceited.

One ramen ready to go.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

What time will you close today?

I'm beat. I can't help you anymore!

I'm sorry. You can have a seat when there are no customers.

How about some dumplings?

No thanks. The smell overwhelms me.

You'll get used to it.

I'm back.

Thank you.

How did it go?

They want you to come over even for a short time. They got into an argument.

What happened?

They can't decide where to go for the group's trip.

Weren't you going north to Urabandai?

No, it's hard to decide when everyone is selfish. They need a leader.

Doesn't matter where you go.

Anyway, they want you to come over. Please see them.

I can't. I have a delivery.

Let me deliver. Is it ready?

Yes, but what about the shop?

If it's just for 5 minutes, Natsuko can keep watch.

No, I can't. What if a customer comes in?

I'll come back right away.

Then I'll go and see them.

I'm pretty important around here.

You're kidding.

You've been here 6 years and only have this tiny shop.

Kindness is your only good point.

Be quiet. This is for Mr. Wakagawa.

- Look after the shop, Natsuko. - All right.

Where are the children?

They went to sleep.

I'm so tired these days.

It's because you don't have a deliveryman.

I want to go away somewhere, without the kids.

I'll leave the money here.

Thanks.

Thank you very much.

When did you start working here?

- From today. - I see.

Then I'll see you again.

No one here?

Not here...

They don't have a deliveryman, so they're always out.

They'll come back soon. Please have a seat.

No. I...

You want to make a phone call?

No, I work here.

You? I see...

So, what will you have?

The usual ramen, but I'll cook it myself since I know how.

The water is boiling.

I eat here every day, so I sometimes cook my own meals.

This kitchen is so dirty.

Add the broth...

Add the soup...

Any dumplings?

There are some leftovers.

Leftovers from yesterday.

A Ramen Special.

Add the pork... and bean sprouts.

Could you make some tea for me?

Use the tea in the smaller can.

The big one's for customers. It doesn't taste good.

One Ramen Special, ready to go.

I can't eat anything hot.

Good evening.

My sister Natsuko is here!

Sister? Is she your sister?

Yes. I'll introduce her. This is my older sister, Natsuko.

This is Mr. Aoyama. He works at the Meteorological Agency.

Pardon my rudeness.

Pleased to meet you.

No need to be polite.

What brings you here?

I had nothing to do, so I came to help.

My, you've matured.

Yukiko, there are some dumplings leftover.

Oh? I'll have some.

Natsuko, come here.

What?

An interesting place, isn't it? So many unusual customers.

Like him. He's never seen a movie in his life.

Never?

Maybe once. Anyway, he has no interest in movies.

He'd rather eat three bowls of ramen than pay to see a movie.

Good evening.

It's true.

She's a rose among thorns.

I'm too nervous to eat.

- What will you have? - Ramen with pork.

I'll have ramen with vegetables.

Me, too.

Mr. Aoyama is kind and smart, but his salary is so low.

But his shirt was perfectly clean.

That's his one display of fashion.

He has good taste.

Yes, but all he talks about is astronomy, the clouds or radiation.

He said he'd show me a great photo.

It turned out to be the eye of typhoon!

Nothing wrong with that.

I think he's interesting.

So, he must be your type.

- Aren't you cold? - No.

Take care of yourself.

How was the practice exam?

No good.

Why don't we hire a home teacher for you?

It won't make a difference because I'm stupid.

You shouldn't say that about yourself.

Grandpa is getting old. You have to be strong.

You're the only man in the house.

I know.

I'm home.

Hello.

Didn't you get our telegram?

They did, but they already bought air tickets.

Did you come by airplane?

They planned it to be their honeymoon trip.

Business must be good.

No, but I wanted to try riding in an airplane.

He was so scared. He began reciting the sutras.

What would happen if we crashed?

What does it matter as long as we're together.

Time for me to sleep.

What's this?

Their present from Kyushu.

It's a can of bamboo shoots. Very tasty.

Why don't you cook something with it?

Yes, good idea.

Masaaki, what are you doing now?

Uh...

He's a distributer for this stuff.

So, you must be busy.

I want to find new markets for these goods in Tokyo.

This udon dish is tasty!

Natsuko...

Sorry. I worked so hard today. I'm worn out.

A beautiful woman is always beautiful, even while yawning.

Why are you so impressed by a yawn?

Let's try it.

Yes, for tomorrow.

I'm off to bed.

Mother, I'll prepare their futon here.

Good night.

Where will you sleep?

I'll sleep over there.

In his study room? It's so tiny.

It doesn't matter.

Yukiko, let them sleep in your room. You can sleep in Natsuko's room.

Not in my room.

Just for a few days.

That was good. I haven't eaten this in a while.

Thanks.

Hello.

Here again? It's crowded today.

It's all right. I'm all alone today.

Where's your husband?

Father has taken a liking to him.

Two tickets please.

Yes, right there.

- Here okay? - Yes.

I see. Placing a rock there changes the total balance of the garden.

Rock gardens are so interesting.

Thanks you for your help.

You're welcome. I like this kind of work.

It's good to exercise.

Then, I'll ask another favor of you. That rock...

That one? That huge rock?

Yes. Move it a little to the left.

And this one.

You must place the flower towards the viewer as if it is talking to her.

Do you understand?

Finished?

Michiko's husband peeps into my class.

Tell him to stop it. We're not playing around.

I feel sorry for my students.

What a problem.

They've been in Tokyo for a while now.

How long have they stayed here?

Two weeks.

Something's odd, but Father is happy with Masaaki,

as he's a big help in the garden.

Excuse me. Could I have a glass of water?

Sure.

Thanks for your help.

You're welcome.

Doesn't your company mind you taking time off?

You said you had a one-week vacation.

I talked with Michiko about it.

Next month is the 3rd anniversary of Kentaro's passing,

so we'll stay until his memorial service.

They'll stay until Kentaro's memorial service.

But you must be busy.

Only family members attend the 3rd year service.

You both don't have to attend.

I agree.

Don't worry about us. I needn't go to my office every day.

And there are many things to do in Tokyo.

Hello.

I'll take care of it.

Something is odd.

Yes?

Is my sister here?

- Your sister? - I'm...

Oh, it's you.

She is my sister.

Pleased to meet you. I'm Masaaki Hashimoto from Kyushu.

He's Michiko's husband.

Nice to meet you.

My pleasure. Please come in.

No. I'm in a hurry.

- Need money again? - Yes.

You come here only to ask for money.

But it's not often. I have no one else I can count on.

Do you have a part-time job?

I'm a theater trainee and a waitress. I don't know which is my real job.

But don't worry about me.

Oh no. He's staring at us.

Isn't our meal ready yet?

Don't complain. You're getting a discount.

But...

This place is so popular.

Ever since Natsuko started working here.

Really?

No big difference, just a few more ramen served.

One ramen.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

Hello.

It didn't rain today. I even wore rain shoes.

Don't blame me. I'm not the weatherman.

But you said so yesterday.

I did?

Good evening.

Hello.

- Who is he? - What do you think of him?

He looks pretty good. He'd look better if he wore a nicer suit.

Don't you think he'd be good for Natsuko?

For Natsuko? Really? I'll go check him out.

The money is on the table.

Thank you very much.

Mr. Aoyama, this is my sister, Michiko.

Your sisters are so laid-back. Even when we're busy.

Get me the pork slices.

So, how many years since you last came to Tokyo?

Three years. Tokyo's changed a lot since then.

Especially in Shibuya. It's like New York now.

But you've never been to New York.

I said it's "like" New York.

It's ready.

My bill please.

Coming.

I'll buy a kimono for the 3rd year memorial service. Okay?

We must deliver he meals to Mr. Tanaka.

- Sorry to begin before you. - After you.

It's pretty good. But only once in a while.

I eat this every day.

That's why you should find a wife now.

She's right.

A guy like me couldn't.

- One special, ready to go. - Yes.

- Want something to eat? - I'll eat later.

Here you go.

Don't you have to return to Kyushu?

I'll stay here until the 3rd year memorial service.

Let's make it a splendid memorial.

It's a good time to see the maple leaves of Nakasu.

- What do you mean? - A picnic!

Don't be silly. It's funeral, you know.

I know, but I'm talking about after the funeral.

Good idea.

3 years have passed already. Yoshiko is 37, isn't she?

No, she's 36.

It's been 3 years. She should remarry if she finds someone.

But she won't leave Ken behind and marry into another family.

But our mother remarried.

She left behind her young son to marry Father.

We should be thinking about first marriages.

There's Umeko, Natsuko, and me.

Too many women.

Women...

Mom.

What?

I want to pee.

I'll deliver the meals to Mr. Tanaka. Please look after her.

What?

Hurry!

Yes. Yes.

Stepping out, Madam?

Yes, to a memorial service.

Goodbye.

Hello!

Long time no see.

My, if it isn't Mr. Tamura!

Excuse me, Madam. Your husband has come home.

Hello.

Please go home.

But I came home.

Then please go away.

Madam, you shouldn't.

Quiet, please.

Yes. So long.

You should be ashamed of yourself.

I'm sorry, but I broke up with her.

No, she dumped you, didn't she? Anyone would.

Oh, it's you, Father.

Yasuko.

Don't call him Father.

You have to hurry or you'll be late.

But...

I'll take care of things.

Don't argue in public. It's embarrassing.

Take care.

- Come inside. - Are you sure?

Of course. Mother is glad you're back.

What is she praying for, taking such a long time.

You'll never know.

I don't want to know.

Ryokichi came home today.

He did? I'll go tell him off.

No need to.

He's sick in the head. But he's a really nice guy.

Who was he?

Someone I know.

You folks go on ahead.

Yes, go ahead. We'll meet over there.

The temple must be on hard times.

That's why they have both a ceremony hall and a kindergarten on their premise.

So?

Sister!

Thank you very much.

Welcome.

A fine day today.

On your way to the grave, did you see a man?

Yes.

This young man.

His name is Toshihiko Komiya. He works for Kawasaki

Steel in a research lab.

He's fallen for your daughter, Natsuko.

Oh? Natsuko?

Kawasaki Steel is a good company. Its stock price is 380 yen.

I've known his father for a long time.

He became an executive after the war but passed away 2 years ago.

Strange, isn't it? A priest who loves to arrange marriages!

What's wrong with that?

She seems to know him already.

Yes, he sometimes met her at her old company.

If you agree, I'll arrange a meeting between them.

Yes. Thank you very much.

I brought another as I knew we'd see the priest today.

He works for Yamashita Oil. He will get a promotion next year.

It's for Natsuko or Umeko, doesn't matter who.

It's a great opportunity.

But, you also have a daughter.

No, she is still too young.

For Umeko, what do you think, Father?

Umeko? She is a little different. I don't know what she thinks.

She's already turned 30.

How foolish.

Let's go over there.

What a nice day!

Mr. Aoyama said that it would rain today.

His forecasts are never accurate.

It's not his fault. I feel sorry for him.

Who are they talking about?

A very nice guy.

Is that the place?

Have another?

No, thank you.

Well...

Natsuko, a man we met at the gravesite...

Him?

I sometimes met him while at my old company.

I should ask him for help in finding me a job.

He has an important position.

Really? Then I'll ask him, too.

Not for a job. He's fallen for you.

Oh my.

So it was arranged today.

We have a prospect for Umeko, too.

Wow! A double header!

Yukiko, why don't you go outside with Ken?

No way, I want to listen in for future reference.

How about Umeko's prospect?

I won't have an arranged marriage. I'll find a husband on my own.

That's no way to talk.

It's impolite to refuse after I see the picture.

So, I won't see it. That's the polite way.

She has guts!

Keep out of this.

Yoshiko, if you meet the right man, will you remarry?

Oh my...

Don't be silly!

But Yoshiko is still young. Jiro said so, too.

Doesn't matter if she is young, she has Ken.

I don't care. You can get married if you want to.

Are you sure, Ken?

Sure. I don't mind.

It's good for me, too.

Then no one will tell you to study hard, right?

Let's return to the original discussion.

Natsuko, what do you think?

I don't know. It's so sudden.

Natsuko, do you have a special someone?

No, I don't!

Welcome. May I help you?

I'll have a ramen.

- Hello. - Welcome.

- Has the funeral ended? - They went for a picnic, but I returned.

And your wife?

I don't know. She left the kids and went somewhere.

What's the matter?

Could you hire him? He is a nephew of my landlady.

He'd be a big help.

But he's a junior high student, so please let him continue his education.

So, it's just for the evenings.

Yes.

In the evenings you'd be a great help. Will you do it?

Yes. Thank you very much.

- How old are you? - I'm 15.

He is funny.

He's a lot of fun.

You can't depend upon him, but he has his good points.

Like my husband.

Michiko.

What will you do? When will you return to Kyushu?

Well...

Do you have a place to return to?

Just as I thought.

A man with a job wouldn't loaf around here for a month.

With his short temper, he struck a customer.

So he was fired?

The customer was injured. We went broke paying his claims.

The neighbors were so nosy.

We felt uncomfortable there. So we came to Tokyo.

Why didn't you tell me earlier?

I couldn't find a chance.

Then the telegram arrived, saying to come right away.

I don't know what to say.

It's not easy to find a job in Tokyo either.

I've asked my friends about jobs, but I'd like to stay here a little longer.

Well, it's no problem...

But, you cannot stay at our place for too long.

Does your building have any vacancies?

No, there's no room available in Tokyo, not even a doghouse.

I'm so disappointed in you.

You stayed here as guests for such a long time.

I'm sorry.

You bothered Yoshiko the most.

No Mother, they had no choice.

Yes, but...

Some nerve they had.

Anyhow, we have to find a solution.

Please look after us.

You needn't do that.

It's okay. I need some exercise to stay fit.

Hello.

Hello.

Do you know anyone who could rent my apartment?

But you are picky with the tenants.

No I'm not. I need someone really quick.

- I know one. - What sort of person?

I'm not sure, but he has a nice car.

I'll take him. What's his name?

It's written as "Rokkakudani," but pronounced, "Musumiya."

Musumiya... a man?

Yes, I think his name is Kabuto Musumiya.

I've never seen such a name.

I don't care about his name. The sooner, the better.

Have someone in mind?

Could you ask your father?

Money?

If they have to move due to road construction,

they'll get 150,000 yen per tsubo (3.3 mІ).

If the property is 200 tsubo, they'll receive 30 million yen.

30 million yen.

A friend wants to start a business with me.

My parents only gave us a small dowry.

If your father passes on, you'll get an inheritance anyway.

Welcome.

Don't take that.

I'll take this one.

Welcome.

Hello. Where's Mother?

She's making pickled cabbage in the backyard.

Come in.

Can you guess who this is?

You're in for a big surprise.

Follow me.

- Hello. - Welcome.

Come here.

Can you guess who this is?

Utilize the vertical line of this flower, and cut a little to give it a fuller look.

Now do it yourself.

I was shocked.

Could it be true?

I can't believe it.

How do you feel, Mother?

I'm at a loss for words.

Suddenly a grown son has appeared.

What a strange twist of fate!

Umeko, come here. You won't believe this.

He is Mother's son.

She left him when she married into our family and hasn't seen him since.

He moved into my apartment unit.

How do you do? I'm Musumiya.

I'm Umeko.

I'll bring some sweets.

Have some tea.

Thank you.

Thank you.

What's wrong, Ken? Your mother called.

I'm hungry. Give me a bowl of ramen.

Sure, but where did you go?

I took a practice exam to enter high school. I did terribly.

Those entrance exams are tough.

Then I went skating.

Good evening.

Poor boy.

You'll have college entrance exams right after entering high school.

You have no time to relax.

I want to quit school.

No, you must continue through college.

You don't want to end up running a ramen shop, do you?

She's right.

I'll cook a tasty one for you.

Thanks.

I'm back.

Thanks.

Ishikawa is here!

Hey!

Do you know each other?

Yes, we're classmates.

- You are? - Yes.

- You work here? - Yes.

Ken is my nephew.

I see.

Another errand for you. Deliver this to Mitsuwa Bank.

What brings you here, Ken?

Yukiko, you should go home right away.

You just got a new brother.

What?

- Well... - Be quiet.

Look forward to a big surprise.

What's going on?

Hello. Mr. Aoyama!

We found a great marriage prospect for Natsuko.

Oh?

You're not concerned?

Should I be?

You're no fun!

- Don't you like Natsuko? - Yes, I do.

So you should be worried.

She likes you.

I wonder.

Of course she does. I think she wants to marry you.

Marry me?

Sorry, but no thank you.

Are you in love with someone else?

No one.

Why not?

I can't marry anyone, not with my tiny salary.

Then when can you get married?

I wonder when I can.

You have a college degree and a job.

So why can't you get married?

I just can't.

What a shame.

Master, I should have owned a ramen shop instead of going to college.

A ramen shop? Bad idea.

A man must graduate from college to get ahead in this world.

What are you saying?

Sasaki is a great student, yet he's working at Uncle's shop as a delivery boy.

What do you mean?

It's crazy. A stupid guy like me going to high school or college...

You're not stupid.

Don't entertain such thoughts.

Sasaki is a top student. He's really smart.

He's the one who should go to college.

You must go, too. How silly.

You will go to the theater?

No, we're going to a music concert.

Have a good time.

Thank you. Shall we go now?

We'll be going.

Thank you.

They make a charming couple.

What do you think?

We'd like your approval as well.

I will talk with Natsuko and our parents, then let you know.

He must go to a good school, or else he will fall behind in the real world.

But I feel sorry for him, seeing him study until late at night.

Ken is lucky to have a fine mother like you.

What do you think of your mother?

I used to hate her.

But, when I saw her again, that feeling suddenly vanished.

I see.

I'm now truly happy that I have a such a nice family.

Thank you very much.

Don't play around. Go over there.

And then?

If Natsuko agrees, they want to have a wedding ceremony next week.

He will be transferred to Brazil next summer, so...

he wants her to live with his mother as long as possible.

Brazil... so far away.

Nowadays, young people even go to Africa and Siberia.

It's not surprising.

Is that so?

It's only for a couple of years.

What did Natsuko say?

I haven't asked her yet.

Musumiya is here, too?

Yes, he gave me a ride.

I see.

Umeko is sneaky.

What did she do?

She took Musumiya to her room.

Do you live alone in this cottage?

Yes, I built this cottage.

Business must be good, your tea ceremony and flower arrangement.

Pardon me.

Would you like some coffee?

I'm particular about coffee.

So am I.

What's important are the water temperature and percolation, right?

I like Moka Matari coffee.

Okay, I'll try it.

I'll get it ready.

These flowers are in the Koryu style?

Yes. You know a lot.

I dislike having flowers as decorations.

I think each flower has a particular life form of its own.

Exactly.

You hold tea ceremonies here?

I don't teach here. I always go out to give lessons.

So, you need a car since you go out to teach.

You want to sell me a car?

Sorry.

Is that your technique?

Actually, I know of a great car.

A '62 Volkswagen.

No one in Japan has that model.

The car is black. The inside is dark green. Very chic.

If you don't mind, I'll show it to you.

An imported car may be expensive, but you can resell it for a good price.

So I've heard. My friend made a nice profit selling her imported car.

How much is it?

Let's have everyone over for dinner.

We should.

What shall we have?

I wonder what he likes.

We were separated when he was a baby.

He doesn't look one bit like Mother.

But he's a cool guy. And his eyes are so sexy!

What are you saying? A sexy man is a guy like me, nice and chubby.

I don't think so. Michiko and Natsuko are in a daze over him.

But he is our older brother.

Yes, he is.

They must be disappointed.

So, only Umeko has a chance.

I see.

But, Umeko won't...

She's head over heels with him. She's always by his side.

Is it true?

Yes, it is.

Yes, it is.

December 8, 1941, 3 a.m.,

General Sakamoto's squad dropped a 250kg bomb.

That marked the start of the Pacific War.

The plane took off from the carrier I was on, called Zuikaku.

Zuikaku. A fine name for you.

Wasn't that a 30,000 ton carrier?

A principal carrier of the Japanese navy.

Yes. It was huge. 250 meters long.

It's unfortunate that it was sunk.

You know a lot. I'm happy we can talk.

Here again, Father? I want to study English with him, so please leave.

Hello.

A pleasant surprise, but Matsuyo is out now.

I came to see Mr. Musumiya. Is he home?

Yes, he is. Yasuko! Yasuko!

Be quiet! What is it?

Come down. Mr. Musumiya has a guest.

He's upstairs.

Hello.

Welcome.

Hello. I'd like to talk with you.

Step inside.

Why is she here?

I don't know.

I thought you might enjoy this unusual flower from a dept. store exhibition.

This is a nanakamado!

You are a walking encyclopedia!

Its stems are very hard. Put it in a stove 7 times and it still won't turn into ash.

Why do you know this?

After my parents divorced, my father remarried.

His second marriage was going poorly when he passed away.

I was still in junior high and couldn't make friends.

Then in high school I moved into a dorm.

My studies were my only friend. I read all the time.

Once I read something, I never forget.

Really?

I came here to ask for your advice in buying a car.

I see... which one? Volkswagen? MG?

Volkswagen.

I have to learn how to drive. Can you teach me?

Certainly.

I brought you 200,000 yen for now.

You are quick.

Once I make a decision, I want to start right away.

Please keep this for me.

Accepted.

It takes at least one month to transfer the car to you.

I have to change the number plate and pay taxes.

I'll leave it all up to you. I don't know a thing about this.

Sure. If I had the money, I'd like to buy that car too.

My agent says it costs $2200. For you, I will ask for a $200 discount.

I'll call you tomorrow.

Pardon me. I talk too much.

It's all right.

I'm sorry. I have no tea for you. I'm all alone here and always eat out.

That's fine.

By the way, why have you never married?

Why?

I've never found the right one.

And you?

I...

I thought I would never get married.

Why not?

In junior high,

I had a crush on a college student I saw every day at the bus stop.

Then one day, he got on the bus holding a draft notice.

I never saw him again.

I never once talked to him, even though we often looked at each other.

A romantic story,

But oh so sad.

After that...

I never had such a feeling...

until I met you.

I'm sorry.

I heard that. Old spinsters are frightful!

I'm sorry I'm late.

It's raining all over Japan today.

- Will you have something? - No thank you.

I'll have milk and toast. Do you have jam?

Yes, we do.

I'll take it.

It rains a lot.

Yes, it does.

Why did you call me here?

It was you who asked me.

I came here because you asked me.

Strange...

Ah, it's Yukiko who did this!

Really?

What a dirty trick!

The other day, she made fun of me.

Fun of you? How?

She said I should be worried since you're getting married.

Oh my.

I said that I had no reason to be worried.

So, have you decided?

Well...

Congratulations.

No, I still haven't decided.

If you decide, why don't you come to Mt. Fuji on your honeymoon?

Mt. Fuji?

I will be transferred there soon.

To the top of the mountain?

Yes, there is an observatory 3770 meters up.

On Mt. Fuji...

I'm suited for that kind of job.

Although I'll never get ahead,

I want to go to the South Pole.

And I want to go to the moon.

To the moon...

Have one?

No thanks.

Please.

Okay.

Thank you.

Then... I'll take the knight.

Wait, not that one!

You don't play fair.

I'm stuck.

Yukiko told me about Mr. Aoyama. How is he?

He's a really nice guy.

Do you like him?

I guess so.

The scrub brush for cups, how much is it?

45 yen.

So cheap.

Dinner's not ready?

Almost. Are you over your cold?

You should wear a warmer sweater.

Father's coat, the striped one. Where is it?

I washed it, but it's not ready.

I see.

Umeko is late. I wonder where she went?

She just called. She's going to see a movie and will come home late.

I see. Is the bath ready?

Almost.

It takes time to heat up, since it's cold now.

Mother, I love fried tofu, but no konnyaku for me.

All right. Stay out of the kitchen.

It must be hot in Brazil.

But it's a large country. There should be cool areas.

I wish I could go to Brazil. I'm sick of studying.

What a nice smell. Oh, It's Kanto-style udon!

It's almost ready.

Ken, how about a game of shogi?

No way! You don't play fair.

Oh yeah?

It's Yukiko who's in love with Mr. Aoyama.

She is?

She wants to test him, by using me.

Oh dear.

Such a naughty girl.

Don't do it!

You have to pay.

A Peace, please.

Hello. It's been a while.

Yes.

I see.

Thank you very much.

Today? Yes, it's all right.

That's fine.

So, I'll see you at Shibuya Station at 2:30 p.m.

It's no problem. I'm not busy.

Mother, I want go out for a while. Is it all right?

Where to?

Shibuya. It concerns Ken.

I just received a call from Mr. Musumiya. He found an excellent tutor for Ken.

I see.

Yes, you can go.

Then, I'll see you.

Here is 50,000 yen.

Can you give it to him? Tell him it's from me.

To Mr. Musumiya?

He called last night and asked me for money.

Only one month since I first saw him, and he already asks me for money.

I think he's up to no good.

But he's my son.

He's very shrewd.

I worry about him.

Last night I refused.

Come to think of it,

I've never done a thing for him, even though I am his mother.

I think it's okay to be cheated once.

I'll take it to him.

It's a secret between us.

Sure.

You're going to wear that?

It looks good, but a little too gaudy for you.

I don't think so.

I think it is.

They'll think you're having an affair, since you're so attractive.

Don't be silly.

But you feel comfortable walking with a young man, don't you?

Why do you know him? He's such a slick character.

We call him Kabuto. He's always trying to get something out of you.

He's a relative of my mother-in-law.

Of hers? Don't tell me he's her son?

Actually, he is.

So the story was true.

Now he's a car dealer, but don't get fooled by him.

Maybe I said too much?

She was also one of his targets.

He dumped her, then she got an abortion,

but she still loves him.

Really?

Women can be that way. That's why he becomes arrogant.

He doesn't look the type.

He is super smart. I was impressed.

He was stopped by the police a few of times.

He knew the law better than they, so he avoided arrest.

He didn't scrounge off you, did he?

No, he didn't. Today he helped me.

Helped you?

He'll charge you even to tell you directions.

How odd. He must have fallen for your beauty.

Don't be silly.

Did you go off to cry?

You're mean.

I told you to forget him.

But...

What have you been up to? You never come in to chat.

I don't like going to your home.

So many people, young and old... I don't know who to talk with.

I approve.

He may seem unusual to you, but I like him.

He is someone who can live on his own two feet.

I have nothing to add.

Umeko chose him by herself.

She had no interest in marriage until now.

Now that she really wants to, we shouldn't oppose.

I know.

I'm sorry I'm late.

Hello.

You're just in time. We have something to discuss.

What is it?

Umeko wants to get married.

I'm for it. But she wants to marry Musumiya. What do you think?

What do you think?

I'm not opposed, but...

Come on, tell us.

As marriage is so important,

I think you should take time to better know each other.

I've waited a long time for someone like him.

Since we know his family background,

If both of them want to get married, it's alright with me.

But, I don't think she needs to be in a such hurry.

If you're not opposed, then why are you so against it?

You're jealous, aren't you?

You like his type, don't you?

Umeko...

That's the reason you're so opposed, isn't it?

I'm not opposed.

Natsuko and Yukiko always ask you for advice,

but I won't since I'm older than they are.

I appreciate your feelings.

Don't try to discourage me.

I will decide my life on my own.

Yes, you should do what you feel is right.

I'm sorry.

No, you are exactly right. I was a bit hasty.

Thank you.

You said everything I wanted to say.

It's okay.

What do you really think about Musumiya?

If he were a good person and Umeko wanted to marry him,

I'd be truly grateful.

I can't depend on Michiko and her husband.

Natsuko and Yukiko will get married.

This should be the ideal situation, when I think of our future.

But I cannot trust him.

He's all talk.

His father was exactly like that.

He could be merciless in deceiving people.

I'd never forgive myself if he caused trouble to our family.

I shouldn't talk this way about my own son, but...

I understand how you feel.

I hope Umeko will forget about marrying him.

Ishikawa! How'd it go?

No good.

Me, too.

And I studied until 3 a.m. every night. I'm so mad!

Let's go skating!

Not only Umeko, but also Mother...

Please don't hurt their feelings.

I never expected to hear that from you.

What have I done? I never once caused you folks any trouble.

I ask you to leave us before you get us into trouble.

I'm insulted. I've always been my own man.

I can't say I've never caused anyone trouble.

But I've always been honest with you.

Even if you ask me to, I won't marry Umeko.

When I first saw you,...

you wore a white apron,

and your hands were red and numb by the cold water.

You were so beautiful.

You were making pickled cabbage.

I remember this because, like you,...

my mother always made pickled vegetables while carrying me on her back.

Her hands were red, too.

Whenever I'm with you, I feel badly about my brash ways.

Imagine what you like, but I have my own life to consider.

End this talk, please.

Why? Can't a man love a woman?

It's troublesome for me.

Please stay away from our home for some time.

And please move out of your apartment.

You are using your misfortune to your advantage.

I dislike such a person.

I'm very disappointed.

Really disappointed.

Why are you here?

I don't know. I stepped out of the house and somehow...

I came here.

I'm moving out.

Please go home.

Are you in love with Yoshiko?

Yes, I am.

I knew it.

Please don't misunderstand.

I won't see your family ever again.

I'll return the money you gave me.

May I help you?

Can you help me? I'm moving out.

So, you were in love with Yoshiko?

I don't know why guys fall in love with widows. She has a teenage son.

Thank you very much.

Natsuko, why not decide on it, Brazil or Mt. Fuji?

Which is better for me?

You still can't decide? It's driving me crazy.

You needn't be upset.

But I can't sit still.

That's because you want to get married, too.

You think so? Maybe you're right.

I feel sorry for Father. He still has three to go.

Umeko will be fine, since she is rich.

But will Father have enough money when I marry?

Are you worried about that?

I'll have to marry a rich man.

But what if you fall in love with a poor man?

I'll make sure I don't.

Even though, what if you do?

I don't know.

You've already cleaned up?

Thanks.

Yoshiko.

Yes?

I've decided on Brazil.

Really? Are you certain?

Yes.

Why? What's wrong with Mt. Fuji?

Silly. Don't start that again.

I know it's you who loves Mr. Aoyama.

She does? I didn't know.

Naughty girl!

I'm sorry.

She's late today.

Yes, she is.

Mother, she made her decision.

She's decided to go to Brazil!

I see.

Great news!

Congratulations.

When is the ceremony? I want to attend the ceremony.

Hello.

Why are you still here?

You got your man. So leave this house!

Don't give me that innocent look! Where did you go today?

You called and met him secretly, right? I went to Musumiya's room. He told me.

Wait. I'm going to tell everyone!

Umeko!

That's why she opposed me.

She met him behind our backs on the pretext of Ken.

You got nothing to say? I truly loved him.

If it weren't for you...

What's going on?

Thank you, Yoshiko.

No, it's all right.

I'm really sorry.

Hello. Yes, the Ishikawa residence.

Police? Ken Ishikawa?

What happened to Ken?

Yes. Yes.

From where?

Ken was hit by a train.

Hello. Hello. Yes. Yes.

No, Ken...

Yoshiko!

What happened to Ken?

He seemed to be a quiet boy. Was he sick?

He was run over by a train.

The one who shouldn't die had to pass away first.

But we don't choose who passes away.

Dead at 16.

He was too young to commit suicide, but...

But he had a lot of worries.

Don't you have clothes for the funeral?

No.

You could have borrowed.

One never knows his destiny.

We must do what we like when we're alive.

You do too much.

A woman's life is so dreary.

Why is that?

Be careful! You'll burn a hole in this rental suit!

Did you know?

Mr. Musumiya was in love with Yoshiko. Umeko was dumped.

Is that so?

Ken's teacher has arrived.

Our deepest sympathies...

These are Ken's friends.

They say he committed suicide.

He did? What's gotten into teenagers these days...

Ken's teacher looks good, doesn't he?

I'm sleepy. I want some coffee.

- For me? - Sure.

What about the Olympic Road?

- That plan has changed. - It changed?

They're going to build a highway somewhere else.

- Why? - It's easier to build.

I see.

Come here, Dear.

Did you know? It's okay to marry three times.

Why?

Like in baseball, you can swing 3 times even if you miss.

Ouch. Who told you that?

Someone I know.

I was the only one who didn't wear a funeral kimono.

I asked you to buy funeral clothing for Brother's memorial,

but you bought a watch with the money.

I'm going to buy one. I'll need it when another relative dies.

Don't be foolish!

Who's foolish?

You're always nice to everyone, but could care less about me!

Be quiet.

You talk big now.

But you didn't know a thing about cooking when you came back from the war.

It was me who went to cooking school and taught you everything.

That's why I named the shop, "Ran Ramen" after your name.

What's a shop's name got to do with it?

You can't even buy funeral clothing for your wife. You're pitiful.

All right. I'll buy whatever you want.

Our children are all good-for-nothings.

What's wrong, Yoshiko?

It might be my fault that my son is dead.

That's not true.

I forced him to study too much.

But, that's not much to ask for.

Umeko once told me that I was the only outsider in this house.

She may be right.

I lost my husband,

but I had Ken...

I depended on him too much.

My parents are gone.

I have few siblings. I have no place to return to.

I had no choice.

That time we went to the Tamagawa river,

Ken said it would be easier for him if I got married.

That's because no one would nag him about studying, Yukiko said.

I was a burden to him, but I had no one else to lean on.

Natsuko... He must have committed...

Yoshiko...

Mr. Kosugi from the association has arrived.

We should find a tenant for Musumiya's vacant room.

Hurry and find someone...anyone.

We have to find a good tenant.

A young man would make our daughter restless.

A young woman would make you fidgety.

Stop kidding me.

I want to find someone quickly.

Father keeps asking me to put Michiko in our unit.

Are they still there?

They have no shame. But they won't stay there forever.

They won't.

I'm going to Shibuya.

I'll stop at Jiro's on the way back, so I might be late.

All right. I'll prepare dinner.

Please do.

Bye.

Time for a bath now?

Yes. You wrote that? You're good!

Smoking is permitted, but please take care of your cigarette butts.

I'm sorry.

It's okay.

See you.

Goodbye.

You must say hello to your grandparents.

Yes.

Say hello to Aunty Yoshiko and Aunty Natsuko, too.

Yes.

Will Yoshiko keep on living there?

I think so.

Will she marry again?

I wonder.

With Ken gone, it's you who will take over that house.

You married me because you didn't want to live with your parents.

I thought so at the time.

Hello.

Hello.

Welcome.

Going out?

So nicely dressed!

We're going to Grandpa's house.

- To his home? - Yes.

She hasn't felt well these past few days.

What's the matter?

I'm always this way.

Due to your pregnancy?

So, I want them to look after the kids for a while.

I see.

They must be lonely since Ken is gone.

But things haven't settled down. Michiko and Masaaki are still there.

They are so rude. They think they own that house.

So true. I wanted to talk with you about that.

Why don't I go with you?

All right. Together we'll chase them out of the house.

Good idea.

Give that to me.

Are you sure we can rearrange everything?

No problem.

Hello Brother, and family.

Welcome.

What are you doing, taking inventory?

We are improving the look of the shop.

May I help you?

A shopping basket, please.

Here you go.

- How much is it? - It's 160 yen.

This one is 180 yen. It's just 20 yen more but much firmer.

Welcome.

Hello.

Hello.

Chieko.

Hello.

Hello. Welcome.

Where's Father and Mother?

They went to visit the grave.

- Yoshiko, too? - Yes.

- What brings you here today? - Nothing special.

I'll make tea for you.

Don't run around.

We have a tiny place, so they like to come here.

Yes, this is a nice house. I don't feel like I'm in Tokyo.

Hakata seems much more crowded.

Why did they come here?

I don't know.

When will you go back home to Hakata?

Actually, we don't want to go back. We want to settle down in Tokyo.

In Tokyo?

We want to make good use of the shop.

We're thinking of turning it into a supermarket.

Be real. Our parents are too old for that.

We can help them.

Give me a break. We will take care of everything here in Tokyo.

You two should go back to Kyushu.

He's right. You should return to your hometown.

Welcome. What brings you here?

I came to see Father.

- Hello. - Hello.

How much to rent one of your rooms? Around 5000 yen?

Yes, about right.

But we don't have a vacancy right now.

Not to rent a room. I'd like to tear this house down,

and sell half the land to build an apartment here.

An apartment?

This shop doesn't generate much income.

But as Ken is gone, I'm the one who will take over this house.

It's not important that you're the first son.

Yes, the inheritance will be divided among the children.

Even if we're married, right?

Don't any of you think about Yoshiko?

She won't stay here. She'll find someone to marry.

Yes. She's still young. She should get married.

Why don't you first think about helping Yoshiko?

Brother Kentaro passed away and Ken, too. She has no place to go.

For Yoshiko, this is the only place she can stay.

But you've completely forgotten about her.

You people are terrible! I feel so sorry for her.

Yoshiko, come here.

He wants to know if this house is big enough.

If Natsuko and Yukiko marry, we will sell our home,

and the three of us will live peacefully in a place like this.

It's a great idea, but Yoshiko might marry again.

No...

If so, when the time comes,

despite our limited means,

we will send her off to marriage as our daughter.

Even though we have many children, they think only of themselves.

We can't rely on any of them.

Don't feel disappointed.

That's how it is. As long as they try their best.

I don't know about that.

Let's not worry about them, and live peacefully by ourselves.

How about this house?

Oh, I'm sorry.

Excuse me.

Excuse me.

This one, please.

Yes.

Thank you very much.

English translation by kirikomi

THE END