Noriko is the widowed daughter-in-law of Shukichi and Tomi, whose husband was missing in action and presumed dead. Unlike the other adult children, she takes time from her office job to entertain them and offers emotional support. After Tomi’s death, she comforts Shukichi, receives Tomi’s watch, and is encouraged to remarry.
A twenty-seven-year-old unmarried woman who manages the household and cares for her widowed father. Reluctant to marry because she fears leaving him alone, she eventually accepts an arranged marriage and embraces a new life.
Widowed daughter-in-law living in Osaka with her son Minoru. She works at an art gallery and is considered for a marriage match with Isomura Eiichirou, though she remains hesitant about remarrying.
The central character, a woman who leaves Tokyo to build a married life in Osaka with her salaryman husband. Domestic labor and his careless treatment gradually exhaust her, while his response to her niece creates further tension. She leaves for Tokyo temporarily but ultimately returns, accepting marital conventions.
Widow of the deceased Miwa, living with her daughter Ayako. She runs a dressmaking business and is deeply close to her daughter. Friends attempt to arrange her remarriage to Hirayama to ease Ayako's marital concerns, but she ultimately decides against it to support Ayako's happiness.
A beautiful but psychologically damaged woman who fled her long-term abusive relationship with a wealthy man. Her purity and sadness attract Kameda, driving the central romantic and tragic conflicts.
The 28-year-old protagonist who values her independence and career. She faces increasing pressure from her family and society to marry but ultimately decides her own life path without seeking their approval.
Protagonist and narrative core. A Kyoto Imperial University student who initially clashes with radical leftist Noge but eventually marries him. After his arrest and death, she moves to his rural hometown, endures harsh agricultural labor and social scorn to prove her sincerity, and ultimately finds purpose in farming and post-war social reform.
The central female protagonist who navigates a crumbling marriage, finds emotional reliance in her father-in-law, and ultimately seeks independence after uncovering her husband's infidelity and abuse.
The younger daughter of the Anjo family, Atsuko responds to the post-war loss of the family mansion and status with acceptance rather than contempt. She tries to find her own place in the new Japan and ultimately prevents her grieving father from carrying out his suicide attempt after the final ball.
Yukiko is an idealistic teacher who treats the students’ unrest as an opportunity to confront long-standing abuses rather than simply punish those involved. She supports Shinko through the scandal and challenges staff members when she believes their actions worsen tensions. Her commitment to students’ well-being also brings her into conflict with parents and school authorities.
Supporting character whose presence is connected to the Tokyo world Ushinotsuke re-enters.
Setsuko Hara has 90 screen credits in a career dating back to 1935. Their work spans 3 cinematic universes — most prominently Ôban Collection with 4 titles. Signature works include Tokyo Story, Late Spring, The End of Summer. Explore the interactive character relationship maps on each title page to trace how their roles connect across franchises.
Universe traveler — spans 3 universes
