All language subtitles for Oshin 280-288 (640x480 x264 AC3)

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Episode 280

Regardless of
Oshin's deep concern,

Hitoshi aggressively pushed
ahead with his ideas for new stores,

and he was very successful.

In the fall of 1964,
they opened their sixth store.

It looks as if everything was going
smoothly for the Tanokura family,

but a strain appeared in the Tanokura
family in a most unexpected way.

I'm sure it's nothing serious

if they're willing to
release him to his guardian.

What I'm worried about

is why Takeshi would
do something like that.

Kids don't get into trouble if they
have a good home life, do they?

Hitoshi and Michiko probably
aren't getting along, are they?

I'll go and see.

I've kept quiet thinking
that I shouldn't meddle,

but now that this has happened.
Please look after things here.

Who's there?

It's me, Grandma.

- Hello.
- Hello.

- Are your parents home?
- Yeah.

Grandma is here!

I told you to tell
people we aren't home!

But it's Grandma.

I'm sorry.
We just got Takeshi home,

and he's not feeling up
to seeing people.

Will you let him be for today?

I didn't come to
see about Takeshi.

I came to talk to
you and Hitoshi.

Couldn't it wait?

We'll come over
to talk to you soon.

We're too busy
with Takeshi right now.

Please come on in.

She came because
she's concerned about us.

What use is her concern now?

This problem is
between you and me.

Mother has nothing to do with it.

Hitoshi is my son,
and Takeshi is my grandson.

It's only natural that
I worry about them!

I'm coming in.

It was no big deal.

He and his friends were out
walking around at night in Nagoya.

They lost all their
money playing pachinko...

It was their own money.
They didn't steal it.

You give him so much money

that he can go to Nagoya
and get into trouble?

Michiko's totally spoiled him.

How can you talk like that!

You don't do anything
about him at all!

I'm busy with my job!
But I do my best as a father.

Are any of you in need of money?

I buy you and the kids
everything you want.

It's the mother's job
to take care of the kids.

Money isn't everything!

You don't even
come home regularly.

When you're home, all you do
is act like you're bothered.

All you do is sleep here.

We never have any time
to discuss anything.

How can you call
yourself a good father?

Before you attack me,

think about the harm
your actions have caused!

You're angry all the time.

Why would I want
to come home to you?

Every time we talk,
it turns into a fight.

That's why I don't
say anything anymore!

So it's all my fault?!

You're the one who betrayed me!

Stop it! All you two
ever do is fight!

Takeshi!

You must know how I feel...

You know what your
father did to me!

You're the only one
I can count on.

I've given up on
your father completely.

You don't have to say that!

Who else can understand
how I feel if not Takeshi?

You shouldn't criticize
his father like that.

I just want my
son to understand.

I've been living
for him all these years.

He studies hard
like I ask him to.

He understands me
better than anyone.

High school... College.

He is ready to
try his best for me!

You used to be so good...

Don't cry.

I'm sorry.

It's not your fault.
It's your friends.

You can't say no to them!

It wasn't them. I'm the one who
suggested that we all go.

Takeshi...

I wasn't having any fun at home.

All you do is cry to me,

and all I ever do here
is study with a tutor.

I just didn't want to come home.

I had my allowance saved up,

so I asked my friends
to go with me to Nagoya.

And they all came along.

Takeshi...

It's all right.

Take a bath,
and get to bed.

I'm sure you haven't
slept at all yet.

So Takeshi has told us the truth.

- Michiko.
- Leave her alone.

I need to talk to Michiko.

I'll talk to her, and I know
what you want me to tell her.

Mother!

- Welcome home.
- How did it go?

Tatsunori called,
and I was worried!

Hitoshi won't be coming in today.

He wants you to take
care of these for him.

Hitoshi never misses work.
This must be serious!

We'd better watch
our children carefully.

Takeshi is all right.

Wasn't he arrested by the police?

It's his parents' fault.

Both Hitoshi and
Michiko are hurt.

I'm sorry for Takeshi,

but if this helps bring
his parents together again,

this will have been a good thing.

Too bad Hitoshi
had to marry Michiko.

They're both to blame.

In the old days,
couples fought over money.

And poverty was
the cause of it all.

But now they fight

even though they have more money
than they know what to do with.

People used to worry about giving
the children enough food to eat.

They had no time to fight.

Hitoshi fools around
with other women.

And Michiko is lonely,

so she used the children
for her own emotional needs.

They're both so foolish.

And they both get upset
when I try to help.

It can't be helped.
Times have changed.

That's true...

Women in the past used to
suffer under their mother-in-laws,

but now, couples live on their own,
and that's become commonplace.

I suppose Hitoshi and Michiko should
try to solve their own problems.

And I should just keep quiet...

Thanks, that's enough.

Okay.

I feel so much better...

- Mother.
- Yes?

Your duty to Hitoshi,
Nozomi and Tei are over now.

You shouldn't feel badly

just because they tell you
to stay out of their business.

You've fulfilled your
obligations towards your children,

so you think of it that way.

Then you won't
have to feel badly.

I guess you're right.

Otherwise, one can't
raise children properly.

I'll look after you.

There's no reason
why you have to expect

the eldest son's wife
to take care of you.

Don't count on Michiko.

I wouldn't dream of having
her at my own deathbed.

I don't want to cause
you problems either.

If there's someone you like,
I want you to get married.

You're still talking like that?

I want to remain a
Tanokura forever.

I want to take care of the head-
stones belonging to Yuu and Father.

And I'll take care of you.
That's happiness for me.

Please live a long time for me.

Today is the day for employee
training for our fourth store.

Employees today need
to be taught to bow.

Good morning!
Sorry I'm late.

I'm sorry about yesterday.

Michiko and I talked it over,

and we decided to
live together with you.

We'll build us all a
bigger and better house.

Hitoshi...

I want you right there
in the middle of it.

You can supervise
the kids to study more.

- Michiko is all for the idea.
- That sounds great!

Mother is getting on in years...

Tei and I always talk about
how you should all live together.

If I sell my property,
I can make a profit.

We can buy one twice
the size out in the suburbs.

We'll have the money
to build a new house, too.

You have a nice lot,
so it'd be a shame to sell now.

We can't build another
store on it. I'll sell it.

Tei is so envious
of your house...

I have to sell it if I want
to build a new house.

And I don't want to
have to take out a loan!

No, thanks!

I have no intention of living
with you after all these years.

Episode 281

The incident with Takeshi really
made me think about things.

I realize how important
a good home is to the kids,

and how we affect their behavior.

How much influence a mother's
feelings have on her children.

It really hit me hard.

Hitoshi also understands,

and he said it's not
too late for us to try again.

I'll try to mend my ways, too.

I want to have a
house full of laughter.

I'm glad you two
had a chance to talk.

It's not my place to meddle.
You two should do your best.

That's why we want you
to come live with us.

It doesn't have anything
to do with me, does it?

Did you manage to
get through to Mother?

Please ask her.

You two always insisted on
living separately, and now this!

I enjoy living here
peacefully with Hatsuko,

so I don't want
to move in with you.

I realize how wrong we were.

We need a woman
like you to watch over us.

For the good of the family.

Oh, come on...

We'd learn to argue and
end up hating each other.

We want you to speak up.

Michiko wants
to learn from you, too.

Oh, stop it...

I really want you to teach me!

I grew up being spoiled.

I became a mother
before I was ready.

I want to learn to
be a good mother.

I couldn't possibly
teach you anything.

Your generation and
mine think differently.

Even if you should fail,

raise your own children
the way you see fit.

Kids need a little guidance,

but they do a lot of
growing up on their own, too.

That's why we want you there

to make sure that our
home life goes smoother.

I lack confidence.

But I think I can restrain my
selfishness if you're there with us.

Me, too.

I'll do my best with Michiko if
you're there to watch over us.

Otherwise, we will
end up in trouble again.

I used to believe
that living with an in-law

was the root of
all marital problems,

but maybe the in-law can help us
to function better as a family.

So come live with us.
For our own good.

We want Hatsuko
to live with us, too.

She can help us out a lot, too.

You won't have to work
in the store anymore.

Just come help Michiko out.

Please.

I'll start looking for
a place to build a house.

Let me think it over.

- You still won't...
- Hitoshi.

We just came today
to ask you formally.

They're in there a long time...

I'm sure Mother is
thinking it over.

What's there to think about?

Michiko was allowed to marry
Hitoshi under the condition

that they all live with Mother.

But Michiko's attitude
made that impossible.

Now Mother can have her way.
Why would she refuse?

If they get a lot
to build their new house,

I want Hitoshi's old house!

I'll ask him, but you have more
influence with him than I do.

Yes, but...

That land was
Mother's to begin with.

I have rights of inheritance,

so why can't I
just have the house?

The house was built with
money from this company!

You're part of the company too,
so you deserve that house, too!

I shouldn't be
the one to ask Hitoshi.

You're so pathetic!

This business wouldn't
be a success without you.

Hitoshi couldn't have
done it on his own.

So have more confidence!

- Hello.
- Hello.

We haven't seen you in a while.

You two seem so well!

Are you here to see Mother, too?

I just brought
something to my husband.

I'll be going now.

Be careful driving home.

- Bye.
- Bye.

You're so nice
to her for a change.

Words cost nothing.

Is it decided?

No...

What's the problem?
I'll go talk to her.

No, don't!
If you push it,

it'll seem as if you just want
to take over my old house.

And Mother hates
things like that.

Mother. The bath is ready.

We'll eat after you bathe.

Relax in the tub.

- Hatsuko...
- Yes?

I guess maybe I should
move in with Hitoshi...

Maybe this is my last chance.

Hitoshi and Michiko
are begging me.

If I refuse them,
they'll never ask me again.

I'd better decide now.

Why force yourself into it?

You're lonely here with just me?

No matter how much
Michiko has changed,

you would still be
living with a stranger.

I don't want to be
put under their care.

I wouldn't take you
there with me anyway.

Michiko would work you to death!

I can't have you slaving forever.

If I move in with Hitoshi,
he'd have to take care of me.

This is your chance
to be independent.

Open your very own store!

I've been holding you back.

You'll be old in no time.

With me gone, you'll be free!

You want to move in with
them just to set me free?

I'm old...

It's time I moved in with
my son and his family.

I don't want my own store.

If you're going to move in with
Hitoshi, I'm coming with you.

I'll always be with you.

What if something
should happen to me?

You'd be miserable there.

Hitoshi and Michiko will use you,

but they'll never look
after you properly.

I know that.

People change with marriage.

One should know that.

I worry about how
you'll live after I die.

That's why i just can't die yet!

Don't talk about the future...

I'll manage somehow.

I'm not as weak as you think.

Some things I just can't allow!

I want to see you well
and independent before I die.

It's time now.

Mother...

Please put my mind at ease.

I can't face Yuu until then.

- Where's Takeshi?
- He has gone to bed.

He's so much better now.

I'll make you something
to eat right away.

I guess he's getting a new start.

I got us a lot in
the suburbs today.

The air is good out there.
There's a commute to school,

but the trains run
on a regular schedule.

Mother is happy, too.

I see.

Is it true you're
looking to buy a bar?

You're going to let one
of your women run it?

Oh, come on!
That's Hatsuko's shop.

Hatsuko's? Why?

Mother wants her
to be independent.

She won't be living with us?

She's not our housekeeper!

Who will look after Mother then?

She's still quite healthy.

She doesn't need
Hatsuko to care for her.

Hello.

Welcome back.

I thought about it,
and decided to open a yarn shop.

A yarn shop?

I like to knit, and I can also sell
a lot of supplies for handicrafts.

I'll hold classes there, too.

Can you make money doing that?

Oshin was pleased
with Hatsuko's choice.

Who knows what
the future will bring...

Nozomi is going his own way.
Now Hatsuko will go her own way.

Oshin was seeing her family change,
and a lot was crossing her mind.

Episode 282

Oshin decided to move
in with Hitoshi and Michiko.

She was 68,

and she had wanted
Hatsuko an independent life.

She didn't want Hatsuko
having to be placed

under the care
of her adoptive brother.

Oshin wanted her to
guarantee her own future

while she was still healthy.

The owner had big debts,
so he had to sell.

We sure don't want
any trouble later.

Don't worry.
I've checked it all out.

Thank you for finding
this place for me.

This is a good location.

Maybe too good
for a small yarn shop.

This is a residential area,

so nobody would
open up a pub here.

No. Office workers like to stop for
a drink or two before they go home.

It's much better to run a store
catering to housewives.

All the other shops
around here are like that.

That's right.

We have our supermarket
in front of the station.

I think people would
stop by after shopping there.

What do you think, Hatsuko?

I want a cute little shop.

Not just selling yarn,
but also handicraft items.

This would be an ideal location.

You could open up the whole
bottom floor for your shop.

You can live upstairs.

There's plenty of room.
I could even hold classes here.

But the price seems a bit high.

Maybe we should
find a cheaper location.

Don't worry about it.

It's all right as long
as you like it.

I want a place near
Hitoshi's new house,

then I could come
and look in on you.

There you go again!

I'll have the grandchildren
and Michiko there with me.

Besides, Michiko wouldn't want you
coming over all the time anyway.

It would just cause
us all more trouble.

Just concentrate
on your business.

Become self-reliant
as soon as possible.

That's the reason
for your own shop.

Have you decided on this place?

Thank you, Hitoshi.

He's gone out of
his way to help me.

You're a Tanokura, too!

You have a right to
a share of our assets.

You've worked for the good of
the family ever since you were nine.

And we all recognize that!

You deserve a shop or two.
You've earned it.

Just act big about it.

If we buy it and just
sign it over to Hatsuko,

there will be big taxes to pay.

So we decided to borrow the money
from a bank under your name.

Of course, we'll handle
the loan repayments,

so just leave it to me.

No. I'll pay back the loan once
my business gets underway.

I'll make enough
money to pay it back.

That's the spirit!

Having loans to repay
would be an incentive.

Don't worry.

You'll always have me and
Mother to count on for help.

Even a yarn shop
costs a lot to run.

First, there's the land,
the store itself,

and the interior
plus buying the inventory.

A bank loan wouldn't be enough!

I know! We'll provide
the rest of the money.

Please figure out a way
for us to provide the money.

We can't use the company money

on a store that's not going to
be making that much money.

- May I come in?
- Yes.

This is all the money
I have. Will it help?

I've been saving up
my salary over the years.

Now I can put it to good use.

There's a lot here!

I've been getting paid
for 10 years now.

Don't spend it.
Keep it for an emergency.

It's going to be my own shop.

It's only natural that
I put up some money.

That would be a big help.

Our company is
feeling a pinch now.

I, as the head of the Tanokura
family, want to help you.

It's our responsibility to do so.

This money is yours.
You have earned it.

Just hold onto your
money to use later.

I know the company
needs money...

Business is like that.

Paying out small money for your
store isn't going to break us.

Don't worry.

Thank you.

One day, you might
need this money.

Nozomi, Tei and I have
watched you work so hard

for the Tanokura family.

But there are new people who don't
know how much you've contributed.

And one day, we might
not be here to help you.

So save the money
until such a day.

This reminds me of a
children's clothing store

that your father and I started
in Tokyo many years ago.

It sure looks great!

I caused Hitoshi
a lot of trouble...

Never mind that!

Do it the way you want so
you won't have any regrets.

But the carpenter
was complaining about

how picky you were
with your specifications.

I'm going to be here
for the rest of my life.

I want it done right.

Now all you need is merchandise.

I'll open up after you build your
house and Mother moves in with you.

I want to spend time
with her until then.

I don't know if I'll ever
get to live with her again...

She's not going away
to a foreign country!

Just visit us anytime,
and sleep over if you like.

Mother can come
and stay here, too.

No. Once I settle in with you,

I can't be just going
anywhere anytime I want.

But you'd be coming here
to visit your own daughter.

Who's going to complain?

Just think of how
Michiko would feel

if I came and stayed with
my daughter all the time.

I think she'd like it if you
were gone from time to time.

I suppose so...
An in-law is an in-law.

But she'd think that I liked
Hatsuko more than her.

She couldn't think that!

Once I move in with you,
that will be my home.

You and Michiko can
take good care of me.

Otherwise, it wouldn't
be fair to Michiko.

Don't talk like that.
You're the matriarch.

You don't have to
mind Michiko at all.

I don't know
how it will turn out,

but you both asked me
to move in, and I agreed.

I consider it my duty to do
my best to promote harmony.

You don't have to
sleep over, but do visit me.

I don't want to bother Michiko by
going over to visit you too often.

This is silly!
What's the big deal?

Men wouldn't understand.

One has to be considerate
in these matters.

Shall we go?

- Or will you be staying?
- I'll do more work,

and be home in time
to prepare dinner.

I looked all over for this place.

I thought I'd come
and look the place over.

I had a delivery
to make near here.

- Where is Kei?
- I left him at home.

He has new friends now,

and he has more fun
playing over at their homes.

He won't come with me
even if I asked him to.

He is growing up.

Thanks to you all,
everything is fine.

I guess people worry
more than they need to.

One grows up strong
if one is left alone.

Thanks for coming.

This is quite a nice shop!

Shall I order some
soba noodles for us all?

- Never mind me.
- But since we're all here!

Sounds good.
It'll give us a chance to talk.

I'll make the order.

Hatsuko is so happy for
all that you've done for her.

He did everything!
And I'm grateful.

I'm sure Michiko and Tatsunori are
giving Hitoshi a hard time about it.

It's money that
you and I earned.

I won't let anyone say a word!
We all owe Hatsuko a lot.

You didn't say anything about it,
and I didn't ask, but I knew.

Nozomi probably guessed, too.

When Hatsuko left home
right after the war,

and she'd send us
money every month...

We didn't know where she was,
but we'd get money from her.

I knew how she got the money.

I knew what she had to do...

Hitoshi.

- ...to earn that money.
- Don't say it!

Don't ever mention it
out of respect for Hatsuko.

I'll never tell anyone,
but we should never forget.

Hatsuko did it all for us...

She sold her soul for us.

When I think about that,

I feel that there can never
be enough that I can do for her.

She can't buy back her youth.
Money is useless for that.

That's why I want
to make it up to her.

Hitoshi.

But, nobody knows how I feel.

I can't tell Michiko,
Tei or Tatsunori about it.

It's hard on me.

But I won't allow
anyone to complain.

If we don't protect
Hatsuko, who will?

We're the only ones who know how
much pain Hatsuko has gone through.

I also feel strongly that we
have to look after Hatsuko.

I couldn't marry her,
but I consider her precious.

She's like a spiritual
mother and my precious sister.

I'll do all I can
do to help her, too.

Let's all make
sure we protect her!

It's the least we can do
to repay her kindness.

Now I feel better...

You both knew, and you're
both willing to protect Hatsuko...

The soba noodles
will be here soon.

It's so nice that
we can all eat together!

Episode 283

Towards the end of 1968,

Oshin moved into her son,

Hitoshi's new house
to live there with his family.

Hatsuko did not come with her,

she had a store in town,
and was starting to live on her own.

They stuck you back
here in this wing?

You won't have any family contact
with Hitoshi's family like this!

I prefer to be here alone,
and not be bothered.

I can do what I want here.

Then why live together?

Yes. I feel safer being
here with his family.

I know enough not to interfere
with what goes on here,

so I'll go out to work,

and I'll stay out of
everyone's way.

That's what I've decided.

It would have been best
if you came to live with us.

I'd been meaning to ask you...

They say living with
one's own daughter is best,

but there would never be
an end to all the arguments.

Things one can tolerate
in one's daughter-in-law,

one can't tolerate in
one's own daughter.

And we would end up fighting.

You'd have to be so careful
with minding your own daughter,

but not so with in-laws.

Whether a son or daughter,

there's no difference
once they get married.

I guess you can't
help living here,

but let me know if you
have any trouble here.

I have ideas of my own!

- Tei...
- Mother!

Yes...

Are you all settled in?

Sort of.

I wanted to help you,

but with Tei here,
I didn't want to be in the way.

What's this?

Don't touch Grandma's things!

And I've told you both.

Don't enter Grandma's
room without permission.

- Okay.
- It's all right.

I've told them, but please
do scold them if they disobey.

By the way, the bath is ready.

We have a few more
things to put away.

Please have the kids bathe first.

No. You're to bathe
first in this house.

That way, the kids will know that
you're the most important person here.

And since we have small
children, we eat at 6:30.

- Is that all right with you?
- That's fine.

Please enjoy your bath.

She's forcing you into
their own schedule.

In a large family, one shouldn't
want to get one's own way.

Michiko, too.
The poor thing.

She has to make me look good
in front of the kids, too.

She didn't come here
because I was here?

She never had any
intention of helping!

You shouldn't come here

if you're going to
find faults with Michiko.

If I don't watch over you,

who knows how
you might get treated!

Never mind. Just go home!

Michiko is using you!

She didn't want to live with you.
She just wanted a bigger house!

If you had moved in with us,

we could've had
a big house built, too.

Whatever the reason,

Michiko has come
around to accepting

her mother-in-law
into her own home.

I'm very grateful for that.

No wife wants to live
with her mother-in-law.

I know that,

and that's why I've decided not
to say anything to Michiko at all.

An older person shouldn't
disturb anybody's home.

And if that older
person can't adjust,

she should just move out
and live by herself.

I'm going to take by bath now.

Can you do it?

- I'm home.
- Welcome home, Father!

You're home early.

I wanted to join my
mother for dinner.

I have to go back out afterwards.

You didn't have to
go out of your way.

This is our first dinner
together in this new house.

Hamburger steak?
Mother doesn't like meat.

Don't worry.
I have fish for her.

I don't mind eating meat.

Please don't go
out of your way for me.

Michiko is just trying
to be thoughtful.

- Thank you.
- You're welcome.

- Shall we eat?
- Let's eat.

If you knit it yourself,

you'll save two-thirds
off the market price.

And your kids will
appreciate it more, too.

Yes. Sweaters are so expensive,
and kids outgrow them so fast!

If I knit them myself,

I could always take them
apart and make it larger.

We hold special
free classes here, too.

I'll stop by tomorrow.

- Thank you.
- Please come again.

Did I chase her out?

No, she was just leaving anyway.

How are things?

You left so soon after coming
by with your New Year's greeting.

I'm sorry. I had to
knit all these samples.

When did you learn
how to knit? You are good!

I've always liked it,

and I'm grateful for the
chance to have my own store.

That's good.

I have a lot of customers now,

and we held our
first knitting class here.

There were so many people
they didn't fit upstairs.

People appreciate
handmade things.

Our next class will deal with
handicrafts made with yarn.

You seem to have
regained your youth!

Maybe because I deal
with young people now.

But we have older
ladies come, too.

As a hobby for old age.

One of them knitted
three shawls.

One for each of her
daughters-in-law.

I'm doing fairly well
financially, too.

I've been worried about you.

I'm not able to go to
see you at the store much.

I'm busy, too.
With employees training.

Hitoshi brings me meat
and fish sometimes,

so I keep up on
the news about you.

Hitoshi does that?

He's very sweet.
I'm very grateful to him.

I hear you and Michiko
are getting along.

I'm glad.

I have my complaints,
but I say nothing.

She does her best
to make me feel welcome.

So this is where you were.

Tora from Yamagata is here.

- Tora is here?
- Yeah.

She's acting strangely.
Shall we send her away?

You're so lucky...

You have your own business,

and you get to live
here all by yourself.

Your son's wife seems to
defer to you, too.

Compared to you,

why do I have to
suffer like this...?

My son's wife drove me
out of the house!

Tora...

She's like an ogre,
but I have nowhere else to go.

I only have you to count on!

My brother is wealthy now,
so you're not hurting financially.

Money isn't everything.
It's the heart that counts.

Money can also
make people unhappy.

Our son wants to sell off our farm
property to start his own business.

When my husband said no,

our son's wife threatened to
divorce him if we didn't cooperate.

Then my son took his wife's side,

and threatened to
leave the house, too.

I couldn't take it anymore...

That's not like you at all.

I hate to say this, but...

Your mother was
very selfish, too.

She was always favoring you!

She always lectured
us on the fact

that it was you
who built us a new house.

That was so hard on me...

Oshin was like a God to her,

and she treated me as if
I were some kind of animal...

I did my best to persevere,

but my son's wife
proved too much for me.

Whenever I complained,

she'd get back
at me a hundred-fold!

And I worked so hard to
please my own mother-in-law!

I did my best.
I had to bear it all...

That just serves her right!

That's what she gets for being
mean to her own mother-in-law.

Can we let her stay
here for a while?

Why? You dislike
her with a passion!

I realize now that
she had it rough, too.

I'm grateful that my mother
always stuck up for me,

but Tora resented that.

I never realized that until now.

I feel badly for Michiko,

but won't you let her
stay for just a few days?

You're being too nice!

I feel sorry for her now.

Especially since I'm
so happy now.

Oshin pitied Tora...

After all, they had both lived
through the most difficult of times.

Episode 284

Shortly after Oshin moved
in to live with her son,

Hitoshi and his family,

she had a most unexpected visit
from her sister-in-law, Tora.

She was having problems
with her daughter-in-law.

Oshin came to feel
the passage of time

by listening to Tora's complaints
about being mistreated.

How long is your aunt
going to be with us?

I have no idea...

She came seeking help from Mother,
so she can't just turn her away.

Poor Mother...

She hasn't even gone
to work for a whole week.

She's so busy caring for her.

She has her own ideas, I'm sure.

I'm sure they're trading complaints
about their daughters-in-law.

Thank you for the meal.

That was so good...
I'm so grateful.

Young people today
live in luxury!

All Michiko does is keep house.

She has hired help, too.
You should speak to her.

I'm not paying for the help.

I just let Hitoshi and
Michiko do as they please.

I'm surprised you
don't say anything.

She's just getting more
big-headed each day!

When we were young,

wives had to go work in
the fields with their babies.

We didn't even get enough to eat.

Compared to that, the young
wives these days live in paradise.

Times have changed.

It's all because we
are too easy on them.

I worked hard to get
my family where it is.

I'm not going to let some
stranger just come in and take over.

I'm not like you.

I won't let people
push me around like that!

You worked hard,

so I can understand
your resentment.

I haven't done anything wrong.

Why do I have to be
put through this?

You can stay here
as long as you like.

There aren't many people

with whom I can trade
stories from the old days.

I like having you here.

Uncle is here from Yamagata.

Shoji!

You...

We're all so worried about you!

I came as soon as
I got Oshin's letter.

You came to take me home?

No matter how generous Oshin is,
you can't just stay here.

I don't want to go home...
I'll be treated badly.

- Thank you.
- Please come again.

Hitoshi!

Working hard as usual?

Come on in.

We have so many people
who want to take our classes,

so we have to hold separate
meetings to cater to everybody.

I owe it to you for posting
notices at all your stores.

As you know,
I'll do anything for you.

Tanokura Supermarket can be
a sponsor for a contest if you like.

I'll provide the space
and the prizes, too.

It'd be good for our image.

That's great!
I'd like to do that this fall.

I got you some good dried
fish and some meat, too.

Thank you.
I really appreciate it.

How's Mother?
Is Tora still there?

Yeah.

Uncle came from
Yamagata to take her home,

but I don't know if she'll go.

Remember right after the war?
When we didn't have a place to live

and Mother went to Yamagata
to ask them for a loan?

And they refused her!

I haven't forgotten...
I felt so sorry for Mother.

She was heartbroken.

That's when I realized how
miserable life is without money,

and that's why I work so hard.

Mother seems to
have forgotten all that.

She hasn't forgotten.
She remembers.

That's why she's being
so nice to Tora now.

Please enjoy.

Please don't go out of your way.

I know we're both
imposing on your kindness.

You've come a long way,
and I can't offer you much.

Michiko. Thank you.

Enjoy your stay.

But, Oshin...

Have a drink.
There's no need to feel badly.

Here you go, Tora.

You're being so good to us.

I know I wasn't able to
help you when you needed it.

After the war,

I knew you were having a very
hard time, but I refused to help you.

You must resent me.

You needed money, too.

But I knew...

I knew that the cedar trees I
cut and sold were planted by you!

You sent us money from Tokyo,
so that we could build a new house.

But I wasn't any
help to you at all...

What I did for you
wasn't much at all.

You both worked hard all your lives
to protect our house and fields.

You had it a lot harder than me.

I didn't realize that back then.

I was only thinking about myself.

And I was so angry
at both of you

for not taking better
care of Mother.

But now I can understand why
Tora wasn't any nicer to Mother.

You were everything to Mother,
so she was always mean to Tora.

I felt sorry for Tora,

and when I'd stick up for her,
she would get angry.

Things were never
very good between us.

Mother was good to me.

That's why I tried to protect her,
and fought with you two.

But from your point of view,

Mother was always
favoring me over you.

Tora was tough too, so she'd
try to get back at Mother.

And poverty made
everything worse.

Now our children are betraying
us after all we went through...

I'm beyond tears!

I had my share of problems
with my mother-in-law.

I'm sure you did, too.

But brides today are different.
We can't do the same to them.

Then I have to keep quiet and say
nothing no matter what happens?

Enough!

We started off as
poor sharecroppers,

and when we finally
got our own land,

our children take
it away from us.

You gave up our land?

Our son is mortgaging
it to start a business.

But, Shoji...!

He insisted on
leaving the house, too.

Now it will just be
you and me again.

But that's all right.

We'll just work hard
to repay the mortgage,

otherwise we'll lose it all.

Without our fields,
we would starve.

What did I do to deserve this?

I was never mean
to our son's wife?

Why is she doing this to us?!

I have had it even
worse in my time.

Compared to me,
she's had it easy!

Now I'm the villain?

I worked hard for my children,
so that we could all live together.

- Good morning.
- Good morning.

- I'm back.
- Welcome back.

Did you see your brother
and his wife off?

I showed them around first.

They left safely?

They were so happy that you and
Michiko took such good care of them.

I felt so sorry for them...

When they get back to Yamagata,

they'll be on their
own at their age, too.

With a mother-in-law like that,

I can't blame the wife for
wanting to live apart from her.

Tora has no idea
that she's being mean.

She and I have lived
through tougher times,

so sometimes we don't like
the way our daughters-in-law are.

Nowadays, we all have
electrical appliances

and other consumer goods.
We have more money, too.

Nobody can live like
the old days anymore.

Our sense of values
have all changed, too.

It's a strange world
we live in now...

I feel sorry for my
brother and Tora.

What will become of
their house in Yamagata?

My old home might
disappear one day...

Your home is right here!

Father and Yuu are
both resting here, too.

Hello, Nozomi!

It's been a while.

Has something happened?

I'm bringing works
into the store today.

Are you having an exhibit
or something here?

You haven't told her?

Mother isn't involved with
the store much anymore.

We're opening up a gallery for
Nozomi's pottery in our third store.

I told him my works won't sell,

but Hitoshi has
convinced me to do it.

It's my job to sell it!

We do more than just sell
a lot of low-priced items here.

I want people to know
that we sell art, too!

Nozomi can better our store's
image through his works.

And if things sell,
Nozomi will benefit, too.

Will they sell?

Just leave that to me!

Society is affluent now.

People look at art
and other luxuries.

All I have to do is
make the prices high,

then they will think
it's really good art.

I want you to be successful.

And Tanokura Supermarket
will help you achieve it.

Hatsuko, too.

I'll build her up into being
a big master of handicrafts.

It's easy for Tanokura
Supermarket to do it.

Episode 285

In 1968, the Tanokura Supermarket
added a sixth store to their chain.

And Hitoshi was very happy
that he built a new larger house

into which Oshin, too,
had moved in.

Oshin was concerned about
Hitoshi overextending himself.

But business went well
for him, and by 1982,

Hitoshi had expanded the number
of his chain to 16 supermarkets.

And Oshin was 81 years old.

Whenever the family gathers,
Michiko is always the busiest one!

Come and sit down.
Let Fumi handle the rest.

Sorry I'm late.

Happy birthday!

I'm so glad you're doing so well.

Am I?

- This is for you.
- Thank you.

Please come sit over here.
Mother was waiting for you.

Thank you for taking
such good care of Mother.

Please don't mention it.

We make you do
all the hard work.

I don't do much.

Mother is able to do
everything for herself.

There isn't much
I can do for her at all.

What took you so long?

I kept getting customers.

Hatsuko is always so busy!

Midori's friend's mother wants to get
a hand-knit sweater made by you.

She says there's
a long waiting list.

Really? I can't mass produce them,

so I try not to take
too many orders.

You're that busy?

Hatsuko's sweaters
are well designed,

easy to wear,
and last a long time!

They're very expensive, too!

Nozomi's pottery costs a lot, too!

You're both great craftsmen.

Nozomi and I both owe it
to Mother and Hitoshi

that we were able
to become independent.

If we hadn't, we would've continued
being a burden on the family.

I could never run
a supermarket.

You're both doing
what you enjoy the most.

How is the heir doing?

How is Akane and Midori?

They've gone camping.

My kids are with them, too.
The kids never stay home!

It's rough when
you're parents, right?

Takeshi had his fun
before he got married, too.

What about you, Kei?

Are you staying home
to help your father?

For the summer at least.

He's paying big tuition for me
to go to college in Tokyo!

He's a terrible son.
He always gets in the way.

Oh, sure! You wanted me home
to visit my mother's grave.

Why not? She loved you very much.

Kei is already 20.

He has to be thinking
about his future.

He's not planning
to be a potter like me.

He's been watching his
father work from childhood.

I have my hopes on you.

The Tanokura business needs
a college-educated economist.

I want you and Takeshi
to take over from me.

Please don't forget that I have
two sons working for Tanokura, too.

Keep bringing the food.

Now that everyone is here,
let's have another toast.

- Ready?
- Yes.

To our great mother.

Never mind the great.

Nozomi and I owe
our welfare to you.

And Hatsuko, too.

We grew up watching
you work so hard.

So you are great.

- Happy birthday!
- Happy birthday!

Happy birthday to you.
Happy birthday to you.

Happy birthday dear Oshin.

Happy birthday to you.

Thank you very much.

Let's toast,

so that we'll continue celebrating
her birthday for years to come.

Cheers!

- Cheers!
- Cheers!

People live to be 100 nowadays.

So hang in there!

We want her to live
a long time for us.

I'm a lucky woman.

I did my best to keep my four children
from starving and I worked hard.

And now that the family
business has grown so much,

I can die any time
with no regrets.

And I'll be able to face your
father and Yuu in the afterlife.

With no regrets at all!

We're just getting started!

And we have a present
from all of us.

I'd like to announce the plan
to open our 17th store.

Another one?

Yes. This next one
will be our biggest yet!

Hitoshi...

Four stories high,
built of concrete and steel.

It'll be like a department store.

I'd been wanting this. To show
you while you're still with us.

We've been looking
for the right property,

and we finally found it.

We rushed to finalize the
purchase for your birthday.

We'd like to open it
by next spring.

Hitoshi always talked about
running a big department store,

and now it's a reality!

It must cost a lot...

I plan to pour everything
I have into this store.

What if it doesn't go well?

We're building it
at this new location

after conducting long
studies, so don't worry.

Where is this location?

We forgot the most important part!

Here it is.

It's marked in red.

It's a fast-growing
suburb in Nagoya.

The land prices are too
high in Nagoya proper.

I've had my eye on
the place for a few years.

Do the merchants of the area know
that you're planning to open up there?

The people who sold us
the property know,

but I have told them
to keep it quiet.

If this plan becomes known,
they will protest.

We'd be cutting
into their business.

I'm well aware of that!

We've come this far,

and we can't be that
afraid of a little protest.

We'll do as usual and
offer them incentives.

It will cost us,
but they won't protest.

Wasn't there a big food
store near the station?

That store represents
our competition!

And they're in a prime location.

We negotiated to buy them out,
but they refused us outright!

They say it's been in
the family for generations.

Namiki said that?

Yes. The owner of
the Namiki Food Store.

He's an old codger!

We would run them
right out of business!

Find another location
for your 17th store!

I'm against this plan of yours.

But, Mother...

I won't allow it!

Why talk about business
on her birthday?

Takeshi. Get the karaoke ready!

Never mind that!

I've never opposed you before,

but this time,
I'll have you listen to me!

You can't order me around.

I'm the president now.
You're the vice-president.

I'm opposing this
plan as your mother!

For what reason?

Just do as I say!

Tatsunori.
Make sure you do as I say!

Mother...

Hitoshi and Tatsunori were shocked.

They must think that
you have gone crazy.

Were they talking
about Namiki Kota?

So that's it...

I knew right away.

Mother told me about Mr. Namiki

when I got my loan
from him to open my studio.

Mother told me she owes
him a debt of gratitude.

Why is Hitoshi planning
to build near him?

He didn't know.

Every time we opened a new store,

we got protests from
the local shopping area.

But business is dog-eat-dog.

After all, we live in a
free market economy now.

But this time,
that logic won't work.

This just can't be
allowed to go through.

I understand
you very well, but...

Mother... Tell Hitoshi
exactly how you feel.

You always tried to keep
from talking about Mr. Namiki

because you didn't want us to think
there was anything between you two,

but we understood.
I'm sure Hitoshi will, too.

Why did you get so upset?

Hitoshi...

The reason I opposed
your idea was...

I don't need to
hear your reasons!

Listen, Hitoshi...

There's no use talking.

We worked really hard
to purchase that property.

Now all we have to do is build.

The plans and blueprints
have all been made.

We can't scrap it all now!

Hitoshi.

I'm going out.

- Michiko.
- Yes?

I'll be out late.

Take care.

Oshin had no chance
to explain to Hitoshi,

but she fully intended
to do right by Kota.

Episode 286

In 1982, Oshin celebrated
her 81st birthday.

It was planned as a
peaceful family gathering.

However, there was shocking
news from her son, Hitoshi.

Did you talk to him?

No.

I had no chance to talk to him
before he went out with Tatsunori.

He told me he didn't want to hear
my reasons for objecting to his plans.

He says he'll just go ahead
with his plans anyway.

I figured as much...

He worked hard in
buying that location,

and plans are already
in place to build.

And he's ready to pour his
finances into this project.

Grandma.

Why did you get angry
at your own birthday party?

Michiko is upset now, too.

I have things to discuss
with your grandma.

You can go home if you like.

I'm concerned, too.
I don't know what's going on.

It doesn't concern you!

I'm not a kid anymore.

I'm concerned for
my grandmother,

just as you and Hatsuko are.

Kei!

All right. I'm leaving.

Don't get too angry,
or your blood pressure will go up.

Let Hitoshi handle the
business. Just retire.

I'll visit again.

It's as Kei says.
Forget about the business.

At your age, you're allowed to.

I'm not obstinate
about other matters.

Hitoshi is the president
and I could retire.

I don't have to be in
the forefront anymore.

I was willing to just
watch Hitoshi run the show.

But I can't let him
cause Kota any trouble!

Hitoshi didn't know he was going to
be butting heads with your old friend.

She sure is a problem!

Your father was all
set to start building,

and now, all of a
sudden she objects.

No wonder your father
and Tatsunori are upset.

What's Grandma
thinking about anyway?

She's over 80 now.
I wish she'd just keep quiet.

I'm sure Father and Tatsunori will
go ahead with the plans anyway,

but they won't
feel good doing it.

That's right.

Think of how I feel...

Living with her under
the same roof all these years!

It's been more
than 20 years now...

It's because she's here

that you can't move in
here with your own family.

Akane and Midori are still here.

Once they get married,
I will move back in.

Those girls only think
about themselves.

And your father
thinks only about work.

I'm all alone here...

Welcome home.
Are you all right?

Where were you until this late?

Mother, you didn't
have to wait up for him.

I need to talk to
Hitoshi in my room.

Please talk tomorrow.
It's late, and he's too drunk.

He'll be busy tomorrow,

and my son can still
understand what I'm saying.

Come, I'll make tea.

Please. He's too tired!

Michiko. You go on to bed.

Let's go.

What is it?

I told you that my mind's already
made up about the new store.

No matter what the reason,
I can't stop the project now.

I've put too much money into it!

And our business has been feeling
the effects of the recent recession.

We need a big project just
to keep ahead of the game!

This new store is
a big gamble for us.

If it doesn't happen,

who knows what's to become
of our family business.

Hitoshi...

If we don't build there,
someone else will!

It's too good a location.

Then sell it. That way,
you won't be in debt.

Oh, come on!
Give it up to a stranger?

What's the difference if we build,
or if someone else builds there?

That's true, and I don't
care about other businesses.

There's a reason why
we can't build there.

Mother...!

There's a big food store there.
The Namiki Store.

We Tanokura owe Mr.
Namiki a big debt of gratitude.

His son runs their
family business now,

but his father,
Kota has helped me a lot.

I've known him since I was 16.

When I was working in Tokyo,

and even after I got married,
he always helped me out.

He was always there
when I needed his help.

I was able to start that
small store after the war

because of Mr. Namiki.

We owe our existence
to what he's done for us.

I guess I've heard
his name before...

I remember asking
you about him once,

but you wouldn't talk about him.

I guess you two shared a special
relationship that you can't tell me about.

You were still young,

and I didn't think you'd
be able to understand.

I'm sure you realize now

that I'm not a woman of
loose morals, don't you?

I've held him dear to me
for more than 60 years.

Ever since I was 16.
I can't betray him.

When I first went to
the Namikis to negotiate,

I knew I'd heard
that name before...

I had no idea you
two were like that.

You did some mean things in business
in order to get us where we are.

My heart ached each time...

But I knew you had
to do these things

in order to survive
the competition.

And that's why I closed
my eyes to what you did.

I even helped you
in many instances.

- But not this time!
- Mother...

Kota was very nice to Yuu, too.

Yuu and I were spared
from killing ourselves

because of Kota's love for us.

We can't go against him now.

That has nothing
to do with business.

If you build your big
supermarket there,

The Namiki Store
will surely fail!

It's dog-eat-dog!

If we don't get him,
he will get us!

They can try and
match us if they want to.

We have to separate business
from matters of the heart,

- or we'll all fail!
- Hitoshi!

That's just how I am.

And that's how I've
gotten successful.

I don't plan on
changing my ways now.

You can't run a
business on emotions!

Even if I beg you?

At your age, love and
passion don't matter.

So what's the use of
sticking up for your lover?

Ouch...

You can say anything to me,

but don't say any
of this to Michiko.

You'll just embarrass yourself.

What did Mother want
to talk to you about?

Just some nonsense.

Is she still objecting
to the new store?

I'm hungry.
I'll have some tea and rice.

You're always changing
the subject like that.

You never tell me anything!

- Hitoshi...
- Enough!

Put the furniture
next to the sundries.

We have to think
about the second floor.

Good morning!

- Good morning.
- Good morning.

We're scheduled to announce
our new store and our plans.

Shall we go ahead with it?

Yeah.

Vice President is
still against the idea?

Never mind.

Mr. Adachi from the
newspaper is here.

He's been hounding me for news.

Get us more reporters here.

We might as well make
this a big announcement.

Tonight, invite them
all out for drinks.

All right.

The news about our new
store is in all the newspapers!

The local papers
are carrying it big!

I guess your mother
won't be able to object now.

Aren't you glad?

She knew apologies
wouldn't help now,

but she wanted him
to know how she felt.

Kota was the only one
she could talk to now.

Episode 287

Welcome.

I have papayas
and mangoes for you.

Thank you.
You're always so good to me.

Come in.

I read about your
new store in the paper.

There's a write-up
in the business section.

The Tanokura have
come a long way!

I guess it's big news when somebody
opens up the 17th store of a big chain.

I bragged to them about how
big this new store is going to be.

It's the age of public relations,

so I have to make use
of the mass media.

I guess Mother has
given up opposing you.

That's why I'm here.
Has Mother come by?

No.

Has something happened?

She left this morning
before breakfast.

I don't usually worry,

but I know she's
read the morning paper.

So she's still against your idea?

She keeps saying she owes
Namiki a debt of gratitude.

She told you about him?

It's too late for that now!

I know, but...
To mother...

You knew about him?

He was Nozomi's natural
mother's lover once.

Mother wasn't in love with him?

I don't really know...

Mr. Namiki is the one

who lent Nozomi the money
to open up his own studio.

He came to the
opening ceremony, too.

He acted very nostalgic
towards Nozomi.

Mother seemed to
depend on him a lot, too.

I'm sure there's
a lot between them.

She's never told me anything.

I'm sure she never
expected all this to happen.

Yes, but the plan
is in motion already!

It's just bad luck...

I always thought it would please her
if I expanded the family business.

That's why I've hung
in there all this time.

But now I'm just
an unfilial son...

I'm already retired.

My son runs the
family business now.

It's my son who's going
to be opposing the building

of your new store.
Not me.

I'm sure it's the same for you.

It's all your son,
Hitoshi's idea.

There's no reason for
you to apologize to me.

I think I've raised my son wrong.

You said that the last time, too.

They say children grow up
watching their parents.

It's because all I
ever thought about

was expanding
the family business.

So I can't blame Hitoshi
for wanting the same thing,

and to pursue it at all costs.

It's too late to realize
all this now, but...

It's me who's to blame
for the way he is.

It's nobody's fault.
The war is to blame.

The war stripped
Japan of everything.

People's heart and soul, too.

The misery changed everybody.

People worked desperately

to crawl out of the hole
they found themselves in.

Since the misery was so great,
people's hopes were high, too.

It wasn't just you.

We all worked for material wealth.

Nobody can be blamed.

Now material things
are all around us.

Only few people now
remember the poverty.

Many things were
forgotten in the rush of time.

But it was the only way
Japan could recover.

People lived desperately.
Carried by the tides of time.

That's so true.

If we'd just done nothing,
we would've all starved.

Come to think of it,

it all started with
our want of money,

then we became greedy.

That's how Japan developed
economically so quickly.

My grandchildren
know nothing of poverty.

They take their current
affluence for granted.

It's very scary...

My grandchildren
are the same way.

So if your new store
threatens our livelihood,

it would teach them
all a good lesson.

- Kota...
- And that's all right.

People need to be at
the very bottom of things

in order to see
life in perspective.

People who are used to
luxuries are unfortunate.

Please stay and relax today.

Who knows how much longer I can
live in such luxurious surroundings.

If the Namiki business
feels the pinch,

I'm sure they'll sell this
house from under me.

I have a very good
cook here now.

We'll have her make us
vegetarian dishes.

You have a guest?

Oh, it's you.

This is my son, Muneo.

This is Tanokura Oshin.

It's nice to meet you.

Your father has always
been very good to me.

How do you do?

What brings you here today?

I'd better be going...

No. Stay for lunch.

I must be going.

Please stay well.

Please come again.

What was she doing here?

She's an old friend,
so don't say anything.

Did you read the morning paper?

When they came to buy out
our store, I refused,

and I thought they'd given up.

If they build a supermarket
near us, we're finished!

Shall I make you tea?

Father!

I ordered soba noodles
from your favorite shop.

Where were you?
You didn't even have breakfast!

Everyone was worried about you.
Hitoshi came looking for you.

I think I've lived too long...

Oh, come on.

You are lucky enough to be healthy.
That's why you got to see us all prosper.

This new store is
Hitoshi's biggest project,

and you're very lucky
to be able to see it open.

Nobody really under-
stands how I feel.

It might seem to you

like we've repaid his
kindness with ingratitude,

but the Namikis won't go broke just
because we opened up another store.

This society is based
on competition.

I'm sure Mr. Namiki understands

that business goes beyond
emotions or obligations.

Mr. Namiki understands.
He consoled me.

You were at his house?

I guess business is
a harsh environment...

But I don't like people
accepting that fact.

How Hitoshi seems to
have lost his kindness...

If he weren't that way,

the Tanokura business would
have been gone long ago!

You've seen many other
supermarkets fold up.

We were able to overcome
difficulties because of Hitoshi.

Never mind!

Business is all
people care about!

Mother!

Oshin never said another
word about the new store,

and she let Hitoshi carry on.

Now it was March of 1983,

and the 17th store
in the Tanokura chain

was ready for its grand opening.

Grandma.

Kei! What are you doing here?

I'm on spring break.
I got back last night.

And I rushed over to see you.

I guess colleges let
out early nowadays.

And they charge so
much for tuition, too.

There you go again!

But I'm relieved.

My father is worried
about you being depressed.

That's why I came by.

But your color is good,
and your tongue is still sharp.

I guess we troublemakers
should just die out,

but I guess they don't
want me up there yet.

Don't talk like that!

I'm glad though.
You'll be at the grand opening.

This new store is as
big as a department store.

Hitoshi is good.

How's your father?

He's busy preparing
for an April exhibit.

That's why he's not
visiting you more often.

Being busy is good.

Yes.

I understand.

There's a call for you
from the outside.

Hello.

Kota!

Please excuse me
for my last visit.

I need to talk to you right away.

I'm near your house now.
Can you come out and meet me?

- I'll come with you.
- Never mind!

Oshin felt a bad premonition

from the sound of
urgency in Kota's voice.

But she had no idea
how precarious

the Tanokura family
business was at that moment.

Episode 288

Thank you for
coming out to see me.

I should've invited
you over to my house,

but there are too many
prying eyes there.

Your grand opening
is set for tomorrow.

I'm very sorry.
I can't apologize enough.

I still feel strongly that we
shouldn't have built that new store.

I told you the last time we met...

Our friendship exists
apart from business.

Besides, our sons run things now.

Let them compete
between themselves.

Yes, but...

So no matter what
my son plans to do,

I don't intend to do anything about it.
Please understand that.

Your son is planning
to do something?

A big supermarket chain
is looking to expand.

They're negotiating to buy our
property and others nearby.

I see. Your store is
in front of the station.

We tried to buy
your property, too.

Since you refused our offer,

we had to settle for a lesser
lot far from the train station.

I think my son has
decided to sell to the chain.

The other merchants
had joined my son

in protesting the building
of the Tanokura store.

But now that your
store is set to open,

they've agreed to sell
their properties to the chain

and become tenants
in their new buildings.

We can't have two large super-
markets so close to one another.

It's silly, but my son
is determined to do it.

The big chain thinks
they will do well

because our property is
so near the train station.

What about us?

If the big chain opens
a store near the station...

Our situations will be reversed.

We couldn't compete against
a big supermarket chain.

It just might turn out
that you'll have to...

I can understand
how your son feels.

Hitoshi doesn't know
about this yet.

That's why I'm telling you now,

so you can act to
prevent it from happening.

Thank you for your consideration.

I'm retired,
so I can't help you much.

So am I. It doesn't do
me much good to know.

But...

Hitoshi deserves it!

I'd asked him not to go through
with the plans for this new store,

since I owe you a
debt of gratitude.

He should've listened to me.

His greed has caused
this to happen to him.

Maybe this will
be good medicine for him.

You can't be so
nonchalant about this, Oshin.

This could mean the end of
the Tanokura family business.

You're probably right...

But that's all right.

Hitoshi and I started with nothing.

It's not such a bad idea to have to
start all over from scratch again.

But, Oshin...

I'm used to poverty.

I hated poverty,
and that's why I've worked hard.

But seeing my children and grand-
children take luxuries for granted,

I feel like letting them experience
what life at the bottom is like.

You said the same thing.

Once one becomes
used to a life of luxury,

one loses touch with
the reality of life.

There were times we were
happy with a bowl of white rice,

or a single loaf of bread.

But we've all forgotten
what that's like.

I want us all to
remember that again.

This will be a good lesson for
Hitoshi and my grandchildren.

Where were you anyway?

Did you have a fight with Michiko?

Not really.

Then why leave the house
without a word?

No wonder Michiko is complaining.

She worried about you!
Apologize to her.

You're such a troublemaker!

Welcome home.

Michiko called everywhere
looking for you.

I'm sorry. I went for a walk.

I was afraid we'd displeased you.

I was just exercising my legs.

Where's Kei?

He left, but he says
he will be back.

Look. Michiko and I
have matching kimono!

It's for the grand opening
ceremony tomorrow.

All the city officials and
notables will be there.

The men are going
with their wives, too.

That's why I spent
so much on this kimono.

I know it's very extravagant,
but Hitoshi says it's all right.

You'd better get your
formal kimono out, too.

The ceremony is at 10 o'clock.

I'll give you a hand
in getting dressed.

I can manage by myself.

You haven't seen
the new store yet?

Why don't you go see it
before the grand opening?

I get teary when I think
about my late father.

I wish he could've seen it.

He was excited about supermarkets
before there were any in Japan.

He was living his dream
through Hitoshi.

After 30 years, the Tanokuras
finally have a grand one!

Mother is the luckiest
woman in the world

for having a wonderful
son like Hitoshi.

He's made your dream come true.

Mother...

Akane is seeing someone.

- She has a sweetheart?
- She's 22 this year.

I still think of her
as a little girl.

My brother must be upset.

I haven't told Hitoshi yet.

He already has someone
in mind for her,

and he won't let any other
man come near her.

But Akane isn't one
to listen to her parents.

What's this young man like?

Akane is bringing
him by here today.

I'd like you to meet him.

I don't think he's a bad choice,

but I don't know
what Hitoshi will say.

That's why I want you
to meet him first,

then you can talk
to Hitoshi for us.

If you approve of him,
he'll accept him, too.

This is so sudden...

Mother, please.

I mean to talk to my husband
after the store's grand opening,

but I need your help.

I'd like to wait till after the grand
opening to meet this young man.

But he's coming today!

Why rush it? Let's just
wait a while and see.

Mother...

Thanks to all of you!

The grand opening
takes place tomorrow,

so let us celebrate a little early.

Where's my mother?

Without her here,
the party isn't official.

I've already asked
her to join you here.

Maybe she's not feeling well.

I sure hope not. Tomorrow
is an important day!

What if she can't attend?

I'll go take a look.

No. I'll go.

Mother. I was just
coming to get you.

Let's toast this
early celebration.

Here.

We've finally done it.

I worked hard on
this project for you.

I wanted you to be
really happy about it.

I'll have you wear
the biggest corsage

at the grand opening ceremony.
After all, this is your store.

Let's toast!

- Congratulations!
- Congratulations!

These guys here all worked
the hardest at our latest project.

From the land purchase
on down to the smallest detail.

They did well!
Especially this one here.

He has a real future with us.

I'm even thinking of letting him
take over the business for me.

I don't think you've
ever met him before.

His name is Hirai, and he's
a Kyoto University graduate.

Pleased to meet you.

Thank you all for your hard work.
Please stay and enjoy your drinks.

Where are you going?

I have to get up early,
so if you'll excuse me.

In that case,
I'll see you tomorrow.

Mother.

What do you think of that Hirai?

I'd like to have him as
Akane's adoptive husband.

Isn't he all right?

With him on board,
the Tanokuras can't be beaten.

Early the next morning,
without telling anyone,

Oshin left on a journey by herself.

Nobody had any idea of
how Oshin was feeling,

or what she was
thinking just then.

Translation: UTB Channel

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