Satoru is a fledgling writer. When his latest manuscript is rejected, his editor, recognizing his talent, offers him a cottage by the beach to work in peace. At first, he struggles, but he is driven to write after meeting a girl, Yoriko, on the beach.
A man is released from prison after 15 years. He reunites with his high school girlfriend, now a single mother of three. What follows is a lyrical take on love, regret and second chances.
In a small village in a valley everyone who reaches the age of 70 must leave the village and go to a certain mountain top to die. If anyone should refuse they would disgrace their family. Old Orin is 69. This winter it is her turn to go to the mountain. But first she must make sure that her eldest son Tatsuhei finds a wife.