Original subtitles

A shochiku production

The flavor of green tea over rice

Screenplay by yasujiro ozu and kogo noda

produced by takeshi Yamamoto

cinematography by yuharu atsuta

production design by tatsuo hamada

edited by yoshiyasu hamamura

music by ichiro saito

Starring

shin saburi michiyo kogure

koji tsuruta chishu ryu

chikage awashima Keiko tsushima

kuniko miyake eijiro yanagi

hisao toake yuko mochizuki

Yoko kozono matsuko shiga

special appearances by kinichi ishikawa and yoko uehara

Directed by yasujiro ozu

So who's in the movie?

Jean marais. I hear it's wonderful.

Join me, auntie? - Not today.

Come on. It'll be nice.

You go on your own.

There's non-chan.

I wonder where he's going, just strolling along.

He's always like that...

With his head in the clouds.

To nishi ginza.

Turn right at the px.

Come to aya's with me?

Come on. - Okay.

Yes?

This came from hananoya.

You can pay it.

Also, Mrs. satake is here.

Miss setsuko is with her.

I see.

Please wrap this for me.

- Nice to see you. - Likewise.

Hello, setsuko. - Hello.

- How was the other day? - When?

After lunch in shinbashi.

Oh, that.

Setsuko and I wandered around owari-Cho.

It was intermission at kabuki, so we got gallery tickets.

I see. Was it good?

My first time in the gallery. So many stairs to climb!

It was like looking down into a well.

Ebizo looked this small. But it was fun.

I'm glad.

Did you go to that place?

Where?

- 'Pachin, jarajara.” - Pachinko?

- Have you played? - No.

- You should. It's fun. - You mustn't.

It sounds like fun. Take me with you.

I won't have it.

Such a strict auntie.

Anything's fun at her age.

- It's the best age to be. - Why?

Wait till you're married. It's terrible.

Why?

Husbands are awful. They gripe from morning to night.

Forget about things like pachinko.

Really?

Really. They're such a nuisance.

Or maybe not. Coffee?

No, thanks.

Auntie, I should be going.

Then off you go.

- Off somewhere? - Yes.

- Where? - To the piccadilly.

Oh, the Jean marais film. Is he your type?

What do you like about him?

The upper or lower part of his face?

I'm off. Good-bye.

Stop by on your way home. Dinner's my treat.

I mean it.

- Nice day, isn't it? - I'd like to go somewhere.

- Where? - A hot Springs.

Overnight?

The spring leaves are lovely now. Let's just do it.

- Right now? - No?

I suppose I could...

- Your husband? - Any ideas?

- Ideas? - For an excuse.

- A teacher thank-you party? - I've used that before.

Tell him setsuko fell ill.

And?

Say she went to a thank-you party at the hot Springs and fell ill.

He'll see right through that.

Don't worry! I'll talk to her when she comes back.

So she'll have to hide out somewhere?

Yes. We'll say she's there, but she'll spend the night here.

Aren't you clever!

Not at all.

I'll call my husband.

Which hot Springs? Hakone?

- How about shuzen;I? - Great.

Toa trading?

Is satake in machinery available? Thank you.

What train?

We can get your things and still make the 4:15.

Okay.

Hello?

Is that so?

No, that's fine. Thanks.

- Well? - He's not there.

He went out with a client.

Really?

Where could he have gone?

Machinery department general manager

Hi.

Welcome.

- Been waiting long? - About half an hour.

Done with work? - Yeah.

A beer for me too.

- What was on the test? - Dulles's theory of public finance.

That's no surprise.

Did you do all right?

More or less.

You know what the cps is?

The consumer price survey.

Surveys prices of goods.

So you know it!

- You didn't? - No.

- Did you pass? - I think probably.

Then let's toast to that.

- I'll pass, right? - How would I know?

I'll be fine, right?

I don't know. I don't work there.

That's cold!

Tell your folks right away if you get in.

How old is your mom now?

Sixty-three.

That old?

Time sure flies.

I hung out with your big brother in junior high.

Mom's really aged since he died in the war.

Has she?

Nice suit.

It's army surplus. Second-hand.

- Any nankinmushi? - Definitely not.

Know how to say “bed bug” in english?

Umm... peanuts?

That's nankinmame.

Really? Oh, right.

I guess you won't need a new-hire guarantor now.

Oh, I'll be fine.

I'm sure they'll hire me.

I feel great. Yeah, you're at the best age.

That's right.

It'll be may soon, and I'm young.

Gaudeamus igitur

luvenes dum sumus

Come in.

Mr. satake is home.

On.

- Welcome home. - Thanks.

You're home late. Were you with a client?

Yeah.

I called.

Did you?

Why'd you call?

No reason.

You hungry?

I already ate.

We have some delicious sea bream.

Where were you?

I was about to leave with a client when non-chan came by.

I see. Will you have a bath?

- Yeah. - Right away?

I waited to take mine.

You should have gone ahead.

Listen.

The thing is - - what?

I went by aya's shop today.

And I heard - maybe you already know.

What?

She said setsuko's in shuzenii.

No, I didn't know.

I didn't either.

Any calls for me?

No, none.

Anyway, setsuko was attending a thank-you party for a teacher

when she suddenly had stomach pains.

- Who did? - Setsuko.

Setsuko did?

She's in a lot of pain. Really suffering.

- Pain where? - Her stomach.

Could be her appendix.

Her appendix?

That's serious. Will she be all right?

If they treat it quickly.

Still, I'm worried.

I can't just leave her there.

She must be so depressed there by herself.

The poor thing's quite fond of me.

Probably wishes I were there.

Then go see her.

Should I?

Will things be okay here?

Sure. You can still catch the train, right?

It's fine. I can go tomorrow.

I'll go tomorrow, then.

I'm sure it'll lift her spirits.

Miss setsuko is here.

Good evening.

Setsuko, what happened?

May I stay the night? It's too late to go home.

What happened?

What a relief! I was worried about you.

Weren't you in shuzeniji? Who? Me?

Yes. Is your stomach better?

- My stomach? - Are you better now?

Is the pain gone? I heard it was awful.

I was so worried! What a surprise to see you.

Who are you talking about?

You. I'm talking about you.

How strange!

Maybe it was someone else.

What's she talking about? I just saw her earlier.

- Silly fool! - What?

Coming at this hour!

Why?

You promised aya you'd stop by there.

Silly fool!

Hello? Aya?

Setsuko just showed up at our place!

That's right.

Now I'm in a real fix.

Yes.

Who can I say is sick now?

Who's sick?

Go back in and be quiet.

Not you. I was talking to her.

Who? Takako?

Good ideal

she'd be perfect.

Hello?

Get off the line. I'm talking.

It's such nice weather.

What a wonderful feeling!

You need to rest. You have appendicitis.

Oh, that's right.

No eating.

Here.

- This is delicious. - Sure is.

Some more?

Don't overdo it. You have appendicitis.

Stop with the appendicitis!

It's making me feel funny down here.

- Really? - A prickly sensation.

Aha! Exactly according to plan.

That's right. Following the script to a tee.

Now I can relax.

Care for a little more pain?

Oh, the pain!

Your husband fell for it?

Yes, but it was a close call.

But I kind of wish he weren't so dim.

It's useful at times, but it gets on my nerves.

- It was convenient. - Maybe he's just a bit dense?

That's right. He's a bonehead. Mr. bonehead.

- Mr. bonehead? - That's a good one.

More, setsuko?

Not a word to uncle. We mean it.

Don't worry.

I'm lucky you got appendicitis in my place.

Yes, but next time it's your turn.

Hello? One moment, please.

A call from Tokyo.

Hello? Who's this?

Would you get him for me?

Mr. bonehead is home.

Is that you, dear? It's me.

We got to shuzeniji around 5:00.

Takako does have appendicitis after all.

She was in a lot of pain earlier, but she's fast asleep now.

No, it seems she won't need surgery.

I should be home tomorrow,

but it may be late.

Good night.

Shall we order more sake? Yes, hot sake.

Could we get some sake?

Oh, you're still on the line?

Good night. Take care.

Hello? I finished my call with Tokyo.

And we'd like some hot sake.

You're good.

A seasoned pro.

Setsuko, not a word to anyone, you hear?

Finish this off? The hot sake's on the way.

Shall we sing something?

Like what?

When the violets were blooming

we cut class all the time to go see that movie.

I saw you for the first time

I think of you

day and night

oh, those days of anguish

when the violets were blooming

even now my heart beats madly

what's wrong?

Did something happen?

I don't feel well.

Are you all right?

What's wrong?

Sir, shall I prepare your futon?

Please.

Then you all can turn in. My wife returns tomorrow.

Yes, sir.

Fumi, did your brother pass the reserve corps exam?

Thank you for asking. He said he did.

Glad to hear it.

Where will he be sent? Sendai, I hear.

It'll be tough on your parents when he leaves.

Yes, but my eldest brother is still there.

- What's he do? - He teaches elementary school.

Then they can rest easy.

That's great. Everyone's doing well.

Yes, thankfully.

Shall I bring you some tea?

No, thanks. Go on to bed now.

Good night, then.

Good night.

I wish I'd seen this game.

Four home runs.

I like those walk-off homers.

What's wrong, setsuko?

My head still aches.

Of course. You got carried away drinking.

You plied her with sake! You were unreasonable.

No more drinking for you.

Listen to you. What a fickle aunt.

Look at all the carp!

Look at that.

Come look.

- What is it? - Come look.

What's going on?

- Look at that one. - Which one?

The black one. Remind you of anyone?

The big sluggish one.

That's not nice.

- Doesn't it remind you of him? - No, it doesn't.

We're past the point of being nice.

This one here? It does look like him!

- Who? Uncle? - Don't just blurt it out!

Good morning, Mr. bonehead.

Mr. bonehead, eat up!

Eat up!

- The others got it. - Eat!

- They stole it again. - You're so dense. Tough luck!

Poor uncle didn't get any.

Dear, don't complain if you're hungry later at work.

Where's your briefcase? Don't you have it?

Setsuko, get uncle's briefcase.

Fumi, uncle's briefcase!

Your necktie's crooked again.

And get a haircut after work.

You're awful.

I'm lucky there are no bald carp.

Look! Uncle finally managed to get one!

Look at that long skinny blue one.

Doesn't it look like my husband? Yes, a bit.

Bonjour, mon Cher peli.

Don't swim over there. You'll catch cold.

Where's your husband now?

Back in Paris. He was in Lyon earlier.

Maybe mine will go somewhere far away someday.

Like where?

Doesn't matter.

Just out of my sight.

Another of taeko's moods is coming on.

She's so changeable.

Such nice weather.

Shall we stay another night?

As long as I'm back by Tuesday.

- Why Tuesday? - Baseball at korakuen.

Taeko, what about you?

Batting thirg, left fielder miyake, no. 27.

Batting fourth, center fielder betto, no. 25.

Hey, look. Your husband's here.

You're right.

He didn't mention coming here today.

- Is he alone? - Seems to be.

That's strange. - What?

He doesn't like baseball much.

He's pulled out a cigarette.

He's looking for a match.

He has company!

- Who is it? - I don't know.

Where could he know her from?

- Shinbashi? - I don't think so.

- Akasaka? - No. Nishi ginza, I think.

He goes to a bar there. That must be it.

She's pretty.

Hey, you look pale. - I do not!

- You're sprouting horns! - Nonsense.

- They seem chummy. - Aren't you angry?

- Of course not. - Good for you.

I'll make him buy me something.

Like that kimono you wanted?

He has no idea how much this game will cost him.

Serves him right.

Poor guy can't get away with anything.

Your attention, please.

Mrs. taeko satake of mejiro.

Mrs. taeko satake, please return home at once.

- What could it be? - What is it?

What's going on?

Mrs. taeko satake of mejiro...

Please return home at once.

Welcome home.

Welcome home.

What's the emergency?

Miss setsuko is here.

You paged me for that?

No, miss setsuko did.

Hello, auntie.

- What's this about? - Nothing.

Nothing? I rushed back in a panic.

They paged me over the loudspeakers.

Fumi, something cold to drink!

Thanks for the other day at shuzeniji.

What was so urgent?

- Have you heard? - What?

Mother has set up a marriage meeting.

Is that all? Then go.

I don't want to. I don't want an arranged marriage.

Don't be silly. Do it. You have to.

- You agree with mother? - Of course.

No. It's insulting.

I hate the idea.

You can't dilly-dally forever. Think about your age.

I'm 21. Twenty-three by the old system.

I still have time.

And I refuse an arranged marriage.

Don't be silly.

Am I wrong? Look at your own situation.

What about it?

Are you happy?

Yes, I am.

That's a lie. You're not happy. Anyone can see that.

I asked mother.

She said your marriage was arranged too.

So?

So you two aren't a good match!

- How so? - Lots of ways.

- We're a good match. - No, you're not.

Why else lie about going to shuzen;I?

I wanted to go. And you came along!

Then why not tell him the truth?

You don't understand. You're still a kid.

Then I'm never growing up!

You compared him to a big sluggish carp.

I feel bad for him!

That's enough. No more trips with you.

Fine.

I'd never bad-mouth my husband.

I'd never marry such a man.

I'll find my own husband. I hate arranged marriages.

Come in.

You're being very difficult. One day you'll understand.

I don't want to understand.

I'd never call my husband Mr. bonehead in front of others.

The president would like to see you.

- Me? - Yes, sir.

Ah, hello. It's been a while.

Yes, sir?

Your father-in-law came to visit. Have a seat.

I came to see Mr. okawa.

I hear you're busy.

How's business?

I think sales will continue leveling off until fall.

I see.

Yes?

- You have a visitor. - I do?

If you'll excuse me.

Say, listen.

Tell taeko to come visit us in oiso.

I will.

Excuse me.

I'm thinking of sending satake overseas.

Is that right?

Hi.

- Hello. - What's up?

I got hired.

Congratulations. That's great.

- Please be my new-hire guarantor. - Sure.

Are you busy today?

- Why? - I'd like to celebrate.

- My treat? - No, mine.

Uh-oh.

- I'll arrange everything. - Where?

There's a great pork cutlet place near me.

They're this big, and cheap.

Come back around 5:00.

Around 5:00?

I'll be waiting out front.

See you.

Calorie house

“Sweet and sour” pachinko parlor

Good cutlets, huh?

Yeah, it was good. I'm stuffed.

The crab omelet's good too.

Want to try it? - No, I'm full.

Hey, no. 1 is jammed!

Want to come to my place?

You're good.

A light touch is key.

So you want to come over?

I think I'll pass tonight.

Is your wife that scary?

It's not that.

It went in. - Really?

But it's jammed.

Is it?

Hey, no. 18 is jammed!

Don't bang on it.

It's jammed.

Banging on it won't help.

Which hole?

Right here.

Hey, squad leader!

Oh, is that you?

Good to see you, sir.

It's been a long time.

Please come in back.

Come on.

Who's that?

We were in the same platoon during the war.

Really?

Please come this way.

You come too.

Come on in.

Hey, we have guests.

It's been a while.

It sure has.

You haven't changed a bit.

You neither. You're looking well.

No, I'm really feeling my age.

My wife.

This man did a lot for me. Pleased to meet you.

Likewise.

I bumped into Takahashi recently in shibuya.

Really? And I ran into Fujita in ginza.

Fujita lives in Tokyo now too?

In mikawajima. He fixes cars.

You don't say.

Have a drink.

Never dreamed I'd run into you tonight.

Same here.

I started this business about a year and a half ago.

Thanks to your banging, I get to see my squad leader again.

Sorry about that.

Forget it.

This is great.

How's business? Looks like it's booming.

It's okay...

But I think this fad will pass sooner or later.

It's not a great business to be in.

It looks like a lot of fun.

Think so? Do you play?

No, this is my first time.

And you?

Now and then.

Come by once in a while.

I will.

But this game is no good.

It's a bad trend, this kind of thing.

I wish I hadn't gone into it.

Have some more.

No, thanks.

It's going to get even more popular.

Think so?

I wish it wouldn't.

It's no good for society. It's useless.

- You think? - Useless.

But those were the days, back in Singapore.

Yeah.

But I had enough of war. No more.

I agree completely.

Enough is enough.

But I wonder what north bridge road is like now.

Yeah, I wonder.

Those palm groves were nice.

And the sky was so beautiful...

And the stars so clear at night.

They sure were.

Those stars! The Southern cross.

Wonderful.

Really wonderful.

I'll lead the charge”

you boldly declared

my comrade in arms

as we went info battle

now [ Clasp the box that holds your ashes

at dawn on a Singapore street

look, my friend

at the peaceful waters

of the strait of malacca

with the Southern cross above

the stars we gazed at together

as our army advanced by day and into the night

oiso

Grandpa, aunt taeko's here!

Is she?

Come on! Hurry!

I'll be right there.

Hurry!

- I told him. - Thank you.

So... what's the suitor like?

He's the son of a diplomat posted in Sweden.

I see. Have you met him?

No, not yet.

But my husband has. They were both at keio university.

I see.

Good afternoon.

Ah, you're here.

I've asked her to go with setsuko.

Yes, please do. Togeki cinema, right?

No, the kabuki theater.

By the way, I sent you the usual.

Thank you.

Don't squander it. Mokichi needs some too.

I'm careful with money.

Glad to hear it.

Is this Sunday good for you?

Yes, but has setsuko agreed to go?

Yes, she finally did last night.

- Did my brother talk to her? - Yes.

She protested at first, but he laid down the law.

I'm glad she agreed.

Yes, if grudgingly.

Just like me when I was young.

My father brought me around too.

I think you cried.

Did 1? How did setsuko react?

She stormed off to her room,

then left early this morning.

She gives us such grief!

Things were so different in our day.

It's true.

She's even reading translated books.

I read a bit and was shocked!

What people read these days...

I know.

Did you find setsuko?

No.

- The restroom? - I looked everywhere.

Where could she be?

I don't know...

The cafeteria?

Yes, maybe.

Let's go see.

- There you go. - Thank you.

Thank you. I won't cause you any trouble.

- I hope not. - Don't worry.

So shall we go?

It's a nice day. Let's go.

You go often?

Yes. It's a lot of fun.

When your racer is dead last and he finally takes the lead,

it's an amazing feeling!

A lot more thrilling than pachinko. Let's go.

I guess I could try it.

Yeah, let's go.

You'll see. It's a lot of fun.

I guarantee it. Pachinko can't compare.

But pachinko is addictive too.

You think?

It's easy to forget yourself

in a crowd of other players.

You can truly be alone.

It's just you and the balls.

Far from the world's troubles, you click away.

You're the ball, and the ball is you.

It's pure solitude.

That's the appeal.

The blissful solitude.

I see. Then bicycle racing is even better.

It's like pachinko balls on bikes.

It's fun just watching the crowd. It's a microcosm of life.

Is that so?

Fumi?

- When did you get here? - Just now.

- Yes, sir? - I"m going out.

Aren't you supposed to be at the play?

I went, but I said I was going to the restroom and slipped out.

Without telling anyone?

That's right.

That's terrible. They'll be looking for you.

It's okay.

No, it's not.

Arranged marriages are barbaric.

Barbaric or not, you have to go back.

- No. - They're looking for you.

- No. - Let's go.

No.

You have to go.

Come on. We're going.

No.

This isn't right.

Hello.

Shall we go?

Let's go. I'll take you.

- Where? - The kabuki theater.

Wow!

Come on.

Let's go.

Come on. Let's go.

Ladies and gentlemen, the sixth race is about to begin.

What's setsuko's suitor like?

I don't know. I haven't met him.

She probably feels awkward.

Kids these days don't feel awkward about anything.

What about you?

Yeah, I felt a bit awkward.

Did you? I bet I will too.

Uncle!

I looked all over. What happened?

I'm back.

You shouldn't be here. You'll get in trouble.

It's okay.

- It's not right. - It's okay.

They're starting!

This is great! Who'd you bet on?

- Red and black. - Red's no good.

He pulled ahead! Amazing!

Calorie house

“Sweet and sour” pachinko parlor

Setsuko, you should go home.

It's okay. A while longer.

How about that?

That's enough. Go home.

Not yet. I'm getting the hang of it.

Are you scoring?

A bit.

Try no. 4.

Hey, try no. 4. It's a good one.

I mean it. Go home.

A bit longer.

You're on your own. I'm going home.

Go ahead.

You're incorrigible. I really am going, you hear?

Go ahead.

How about that?

- I'm going home. - Are you?

Could you walk her to the station?

Will do.

- See you. - Heading home?

Yes. Early start tomorrow. Good-bye.

Thanks for coming.

Setsuko, I'm really leaving.

Good-bye.

You chose to come along. Don't tell anyone you were with me.

I understand.

You're sure?

See you.

No. 16 is jammed.

Ramen

It's hot!

- [T's best hot. - Really?

So why'd you skip out on the meeting?

I'm not interested. It's feudalistic!

Why not just go see? Could be fun.

Not for me.

You sure?

He might be a real catch.

Even so.

You sure?

Arranged marriages aren't necessarily bad.

Why not?

Any marriage is about how you get along.

- But there's no love. - Love comes later.

I'd at least go see.

I'd fall for sure if she were my type.

Sounds so easy!

Why not? I say keep things simple.

That's awful. Like being a dog or chicken.

You're just making it complicated for yourself.

In the eyes of god, it's all the same.

Good, huh? - Very good.

The broth is the best part.

Food like this should be both good and cheap.

Is that so?

There are so many good and cheap places.

That yakitori place is great. I'll take you sometime.

Please do.

But your aunt might get mad.

I don't care.

Really?

Another bowl? No, this is plenty.

You sure?

Hey, another bowl!

Lots of broth.

I hear setsuko showed up here. When was that?

About an hour after you left.

I took her straight back to the theater.

She never came in. We looked all over.

Really?

What's that girl thinking?

This was a marriage meeting. It's unfair to the suitor.

It's rude and irresponsible.

Right? It's unacceptable.

Yes, it was wrong of her.

Her parents are too easy on her.

That's why she's so spoiled.

We have to be firm. No more coddling.

Will you talk to her?

Yeah.

Seriously. You have to talk to her.

Yeah, I will.

What she did today was unthinkable. We were in a panic.

She's really a handful.

She certainly is.

Uncle.

When did you come in? You didn't go home?

Mother will be angry with me.

You're aunt's angry too.

I can handle her better.

Mother goes on forever.

Has auntie gone to bed?

I think she's still up.

Don't tell her I'm here.

- Setsuko. - Good evening, auntie.

- What happened today? - I'm sorry.

I'm not talking to you anymore.

Give setsuko a talking-to.

Really scold her.

Setsuko, sit down.

Sit down.

What you did was wrong.

This was a marriage meeting. You can't just not show up.

It's rude to the other party.

It's reckless and irresponsible. That's right.

You can't behave that way.

You need to think more carefully.

This is a crucial time for you. You're not a child anymore.

That's right. Listen to him.

We're all worried about you.

You can't just keep doing whatever you want.

- Uncle, that's not fair. - I told you I wanted no part in it.

Like you're so innocent.

Well, let's just forget it.

Listen.

I won all this after you left. I gave half to non-chan.

And I still have balls for next time.

I'm going back.

The key is a light touch.

You hold it like this,

then slowly release it,

and it goes around -

dear...

Were you with setsuko today?

Why did you lie? Why?

I didn't...

You didn't what?

- I didn't lie. - Then what was it?

I just didn't tell you.

It's the same thing!

You knew about her meeting today.

Yes, and that's why I took her to the theater.

She never showed up!

He really did take me there.

Then where were you?

Where did you go? Well?

It doesn't matter.

It certainly does!

If she's not interested, that's that.

What's what?

There was nothing I could do.

What do you mean?

Forcing her to marry against her will

would just create another couple like us.

So that's it! I see.

Now it's all clear.

What now?

What can I do?

There's nothing I can do now.

- When was that? - About 10 days ago.

You haven't talked to him since? How's he taking it?

Sometimes he seems to want to talk.

I went to bed early the other night.

He came home drunk and banged on my door.

I pretended to be asleep. He kept calling, “honey.”

You have real self-control. I wouldn't last two days.

It's not self-control. I don't want to talk.

That's hypocritical. You've lied to him too.

What couple doesn't lie to each other? They all do a bit.

Do they?

I think there must be good couples who don't.

You're wrong.

If so, they've given up on each other

and can't even be bothered to lie.

In that sense, you two have it good.

What's good about it?

You expect too much, and you're too finicky.

How so?

You skipped school when you didn't like the required hairdo.

And you wore long skirts despite getting scolded.

That was ages ago.

But you haven't changed.

You're always unhappy if you don't get your way.

Whether skirts or men, everything has to be your way.

Yes?

Oh, hello there.

Is your husband well?

Come here a minute.

What?

I need five bills.

What for?

Just get it.

All is well at home, I trust?

If you'll excuse me...

Hold on!

Wait a minute.

What?

- Give it back. - What? This?

Now go home. And don't make a fuss.

Your husband's nice.

No, he's a lot of trouble.

Really?

It's you who's got it good. You're just selfish.

- That's not so. - Ltis.

Your griping only proves you love your husband.

I do not.

You do, or you'd have split up long ago.

You don't understand.

What?

How I feel.

But I do.

How would you? I'm going.

Stay a bit longer!

Come in.

What is it?

Mr. satake is waiting for you to join him.

I'll be right there.

She's on her way.

Serve me some, will you? I'm hungry.

Yes, sir.

Oh, there you are. I went ahead.

Aren't you going to eat?

Dear.

What?

Don't pour the soup on your rice.

I wasn't thinking.

Is that how you always eat?

Fumi, does he always wolf down his food like a dog?

Say yes.

I do sometimes when you're not here.

I've told you I don't like it.

It's true. I wasn't thinking.

I want you to stop.

I will.

I did it without thinking.

I just got scolded.

Do you pour soup over your rice back home?

We do.

- In saitama, right? - Yes.

We do in Nagano too. I guess they don't in Tokyo.

It's really tasty.

Do you do it here?

No, sir.

- Why not? - Madam doesn't like it.

I see.

Who is it?

It's me.

Aren't you going to eat?

I'm fine.

Where's my wife?

Taking a bath.

Ask her to come upstairs when she's done.

Fumi?

You wanted me?

Yes. Have a seat.

I'll stand. Let's hear ii.

You're in a foul mood.

Not at all.

- Have a seat. - I'm fine.

Very well. I'm sorry about earlier.

I didn't know you hated it so much. I'll stop.

No, it's fine. Do as you wish.

No, I'll stop.

That's how I did it as a kid back home.

It's how I was raised. I didn't know it was wrong.

I never said it was wrong.

Anyway, I'll stop.

But why is it always like this?

What do you mean?

My cigarettes, for example.

You hate me smoking asahi brand, but I like them.

They're not just cheaper. I like the taste.

Same with the train.

You hate when I ride third-class, but I like it.

I find it more relaxing.

Just like with my old favorites, asahis.

I'm even fond of the package.

It's just how I was raised.

I'm very sorry, but that's not how I was raised.

I'm just talking about myself.

You're fine the way you are.

Asahis wouldn't suit you at all.

We all have our own habits.

How can I explain?

I like things to be cozy, down-to-earth,

without ceremony and affectation.

Is that so?

Of course if 'm in a hurry I'll take a plane

or ride first-class if it's faster.

That's enough.

Then ill stop.

You might not like it, but I prefer to feel more relaxed.

I'm like that as well.

I prefer to be relaxed too.

So I'll ride the train as I always have.

I find that more relaxing.

- I have more to say. - I've heard enough.

Actually...

Ladies and gentlemen, we will be arriving in hamamatsu

in five minutes, at 12.20 pm.

Please disembark to the left

we will stop for five minutes.

This train will arrive in nagoya at 2:04...

Kyolo at 4.22...

And Osaka at 5:00 P.M.

Sir, the president would like to see you.

I see.

Yes, sir?

I'd like you to fly to Uruguay the day after tomorrow.

I see.

Can you go? I know it's sudden.

No, it's fine.

Good. But it'll be a tough trip.

General affairs has the paperwork.

Sorry it came out of nowhere.

No, it's fine.

Say, listen.

Take the day off to prepare.

How about lunch tomorrow? Sure.

See you then.

If you'll excuse me.

Welcome home, sir.

Where's my wife?

Right after you left for work she -

- stepped out? - Yes.

She said to give you this when you came back.

“I'm going away for a while to clear my head.”

Did she say how long?

Maybe four or five days.

Telegraph office? I'd like to send a telegram.

This is ochiai Nagasaki 1025.

That's right.

The address is Kobe city, suma ward...

32 rikyu street.

Taeko satake, care of hideko murayama.

That's right.

Message to read:

“Urgent matter. Come home.”

New line. “Mokichi.”

Yes, that's all.

Mark it urgent.

Fumi.

I'm going abroad. We have a travel bag like this, right?

Yes.

What about Mrs. satake?

I sent her a telegram. Bring that bag.

It zips up like this.

- Where is she? - She'd better hurry.

She's not going to make it.

My squad leader's gone now.

I'm glad it's such fine weather.

Should we wait a bit longer?

I guess.

You can go. I'll stay a while.

She has to come home.

You sent a telegram? Yes, yesterday.

Then she had plenty of time.

She's so irresponsible. Where could she be?

She's back!

Welcome home.

So you're home. A bit late, aren't you?

Yes, I'm home.

Where were you?

You're too late!

Uncle already left.

What were you doing?

Uncle looked quite sad.

Did you get the telegram yesterday?

Yes.

Why'd you go to suma?

Why shouldn't I have? I wanted to go.

You should have rushed back.

I wasn't home. I was out in Kobe with hideko.

Everyone was worried when you didn't come.

How could 1? I didn't know.

Your husband sent a telegram two days ago.

You didn't see that either? I did.

Then why not come back?

How was I to know what “urgent matter” meant?

That could mean anything.

Even so, you should have come home.

You could have made it.

I've heard enough.

You obviously don't care.

I don't.

I see.

Setsuko, I'm going home. Me too.

Good-bye.

Good-bye.

Fumi?

Did my husband say anything?

No, nothing in particular.

Who is it?

Mr. satake is home.

Thanks. You can turn in now.

Welcome home.

We had airplane trouble.

I heard you were going to Uruguay.

That's right. Montevideo.

What kind of airplane trouble?

Engine trouble two hours in, so we turned back.

I fly out tomorrow morning.

I'm exhausted.

What time tomorrow?

9:00 A.M.

When did you get back?

About two hours after you left.

I see.

How was suma? Fun?

I'll never do that again.

Do what?

Go off without telling you.

It's all right. It's just like you.

No, I won't do it again.

I saw your telegram...

But I wasn't sure what it meant.

Really? I should have been clearer.

It all happened so fast. They didn't tell you beforehand?

There'd been mention of it.

I tried to talk to you the other night,

but you were in a foul mood.

Still, you should've told me.

Yeah, but I didn't expect it to happen so suddenly.

Were you up early?

Sleepy?

No... hungry.

Really? You want a bite?

I'll join you.

Yeah? Let's go downstairs.

Aren't you cold?

No, I'm fine.

I'd hate to wake fumi.

You know where everything is?

- Like what? - Bowls and chopsticks.

I'm sure we'll find them. Let's go look.

- Some bread? - No. Tea over rice.

Tea over rice?

Here's some pickled radish.

I think that's the servants'.

How about this?

No, tea over rice.

Here's some rice. Think that's enough?

That's fine. And some pickled vegetables?

What a loud sleeper!

That's yone.

Where's the pickling crock?

Here it is.

Shall I?

It's all right.

I found something.

I don't know.

- Watch your fingers. - I'm fine.

I need bowls.

Thanks.

Have we forgotten anything?

Saucers.

Soy sauce.

All set.

The rice.

Thank you.

It's good.

Is it? Pll try that too.

I smell of miso.

Let me smell.

Your hands are in shock.

It's delicious.

Really good.

What's wrong?

What is it?

I've been terrible.

How so?

All this time I...

What?

I just didn't understand.

Forgive me.

It's like you said:

Cozy and down-to-earth,

without ceremony or affectation.

I finally understand.

It's no big deal. Forget about it.

No, it is a big deal. It's important.

I've been such a fool.

It's okay. Really.

I'm glad you understand.

Eat up.

It's the flavor of tea over rice.

That's what marriage is. The flavor of tea over rice.

That's right.

I only just realized that now.

It's all right.

But I'm glad I could come back tonight.

So am I.

I'm really glad you came home.

It's all right.

I'm glad you understand.

So he left the next morning?

- Setsuko, did you see him off? - No.

I saw him off alone.

You did?

How did it go? I was surprisingly calm.

Really? I'm impressed! I was a mess.

But something happened the night before.

We had a late snack of tea over rice.

The two of you?

And then I started crying.

Really? It's not like you to cry.

Did you sob or whimper?

First I whimpered. Then I sobbed.

I apologized for all sorts of things.

He told me to stop, but I had to get it out.

Then he said he understood and cut me off.

I looked over and saw his eyes welling up with tears.

“Don't cry! Men don't cry!”

He said, “don't you see? These are tears of joy.

In all our time together,

I've never been happier than at this moment.”

I said, “I've been such a fool. I'm sorry.

I only really understood today.”

By then I was sobbing.

I felt a burden had been lifted, and my body felt lighter.

Setsuko, are you okay?

Why?

- Shall we? - Yes, I think it's time.

No, not yet.

Men sure can be complicated.

Women only know their husbands at home.

At home they're like baby turtles lazing in the sun.

Out in the world they're racing hares

and diving underwater with urashima taro.

We only see a small part of them.

You're right.

You called him Mr. bonehead.

But he knew everything. I was shocked.

He knew all about shuzeniji.

What did he say?

“If you lie, make it convincing.

Better yet, just tell the truth.

Then you needn't worry.”

Uh-oh. I better go.

What's wrong?

I lied about where I was going. Good-bye.

Me too. What about you, setsuko?

- She's fine. - No, I'm going too.

Non-chan's taking me out to eat.

Sit down. Make him wait a bit.

Take care.

- So do you understand now? - What?

Think carefully and choose your husband well.

It's for the rest of your life.

Whether you like his tie or the way he dresses

doesn't matter at all.

How can I put it?

What's most important is whether he's reliable or not.

I never realized that before.

But now I love all the things I used to hate about him.

I think very few husbands are as good as he is.

Why are you laughing?

Stop being fresh and listen.

All right.

I wonder what he's doing in Uruguay right now.

End of lecture.

You're horrible. I'm leaving.

Good-bye.

- Don't go yet. - I've heard enough.

Really? That's sweet.

She's that much in love? Yes, madly.

That's wonderful. And she's right.

It isn't about how fine a man's clothes are.

This coat is government surplus, and someone gave me this hat.

So what are you saying?

That these are all the clothes I need.

What's important is being reliable.

And are you?

I wonder...

Don't doubt it. It's absolutely true.

So far you've only seen this turtle lazing in the sun.

You know only a part of me.

I hate boasting like that!

It's no use hating me.

You'll just regret it later. That much I know!

Setsuko?

The end