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Episode 57
Oshin now had her first chance at doing hair on her own.
But it was so sudden that she was afraid and apprehensive.
Welcome.
- You'll be doing my hair? - Yes.
What style would you like?
The hidden-ear look.
You don't know that style?
Yes I do.
- Please get me my iron. - All right.
I didn't know you did Western-style hair here.
I didn't want to have to turn a customer away.
That's true. One has to be flexible nowadays.
You're the only one around here doing just Japanese styles.
At least you still have a lot of geisha around here.
Thanks.
Don't get it too curly!
Your hair will look fuller this way.
Please don't let Oshin make any mistakes.
How do you like it?
What's this?
I asked for the hidden-ear look!
Yes I've hidden your ears.
This isn't the way it's supposed to look!
You don't know that style do you? Now my hair is ruined!
I'm sorry. I'll do it over.
I don't have time I have an appointment!
- Are you the owner? - Yes.
How can you use an inexperienced girl on me?
If you don't like it you don't have to pay.
You think not charging me makes it all right?
My hair is ruined!
I have to deal with clients in my line of work!
I wish you could stay to have it done over...
Never mind!
I should never have come here!
I'm not paying! I should be charging you instead!
Thank you!
I'm sorry.
Never mind. You did your best.
What a nasty customer!
You can't blame her the girl was inexperienced.
We've lost another customer. Oshin's nothing but trouble!
You can't expect much on your first time out.
Don't lose heart.
I feel so badly for our owner.
That woman's an idiot! Her hair looked great.
It looked good on her. She just didn't get it.
You hid her ear and everything! What's her problem?
I'm no good...
I'll never be able to do it.
I'll learn to do the proper Japanese style
no matter how many years it takes me.
I'm sure I can do that if I study hard enough.
I was dreaming...
No more Western-style hair for me.
Let's get back to work. I still have a year left as a maid.
I hate to talk to you like this
but I disagree with what you had Oshin do today.
She's only been practicing for three months.
You should've known better!
And you told us you'd never do Western-style hair here!
We take pride in what we do here.
I have tea for you.
- Oshin. - Yes?
You didn't even know the hidden-ear style!
You should've declined if you didn't know.
You have made our owner look very bad!
I know the hidden-ear style.
Every parlor had a couple of people with that style.
Then why did you do it in a strange way?
You know of it but you can't do it right?
I thought she wouldn't look good in that style
so I just hid her ear and did it in another style.
How ridiculous!
A hairdresser does it the way the customer wants it!
I thought it was our job to make her look better.
She'd look very foolish with the hidden-ear look.
She doesn't have the face for it.
Maybe Oshin's right.
In the Japanese style it's all set as to who wears what.
A wife wears the maru-mage and a girl wears the momo-ware.
You can tell a woman's profession just by looking at her hair.
There's no set way in doing Western styles.
A working girl a wife or a school girl.
It doesn't matter what she wears.
A style doesn't have to have a name.
A hairdresser just does her best to fit the customer.
- I'm saying... - Yes I know!
It's time for our lesson Oshin.
Please teach me the proper Japanese style.
No more Western-style hair for me!
Otoyo you can be the subject tonight.
What?
Come on. Let's go.
Give Otoyo a style that fits her best.
You should all watch. You might have to do this one day.
Don't it looks good!
You look great with it.
- You look so much younger. - The Western style isn't bad.
Oh sure! I was made a fool of.
Nobody can make a living doing hair like this!
Oshin has caused us all so much trouble!
Thank you for waiting.
Stop taking so long to eat!
I'm done!
Please have your lunch now.
I don't have time to eat! Our customers are waiting.
Welcome!
May I help you?
Where's that girl who did my hair the other day?
Welcome.
You want to see Oshin?
I would like for her to do my hair again.
I'm sorry I lost my temper the other day.
Everybody told me my hair looked great!
The other girls at my place all asked about it.
I've decided to have her be my stylist.
And I will pay for my last visit too.
We don't do Western styles.
We made a special exception for you the other day.
But I said I was sorry. I'll give a good tip!
I'm sorry. Please leave.
Don't be so mean! I want that girl to do my hair.
Then I'll have her make a house call.
On a house call she can do any style she pleases.
She makes house calls?
Good that's save me the trouble of waiting.
Have her come to the Café Athena in Kanda.
Come around 4 o'clock and go to the back door.
Ask for Someko.
Will you write down the address?
Just remember it. It's in Kanda.
But it's her first time.
Don't embarrass me. I can't write.
I'm sorry.
- Go call Oshin. - Okay.
Oshin!
Come quickly! It's good news.
I'm so sorry about the other day!
Take down her name and her address.
All right.
Hanabusa-cho in Kanda.
You know how to write? I'm impressed!
Any landmark?
There's a tobacco shop on the corner.
It's two doors down.
Café Athena. And my name's Someko.
I'll have her come around 4 o'clock.
I'll be waiting!
Thank you!
Take your tools and make a house call.
Leave at 3 o'clock.
Whom will I be accompanying?
She asked for you personally.
She liked the style you did for her.
I'm not good enough! Please turn her down.
I've already told her you'd be there.
Shape up!
You know the basics.
So just do your best.
If you fail just try again.
Give it a try!
Oshin had her second chance.
But Oshin still lacked the confidence.
She also felt badly for her fellow workers too.
Episode 58
Taka had told Oshin to go out on a job to do hair.
It was her first time and Oshin was very hesitant.
But she had no choice but to go.
What is it?
I've come to do hair.
You're new aren't you?
Yes Someko asked me to come.
Go around to the back.
Okay.
What's that style called?
There's no name for it.
I do a variety to fit the customer's face.
But you can't just wear any style hair!
Why not? We all have different looks.
We should all wear styles that fit us.
That style makes you look good.
A customer told me it made me look 20!
Maybe I should ask her to do mine too.
You have Otsuru as your hairdresser!
She only does set styles.
You got tired of Otsuru that's why you got her.
Why copy me?
I think she's better than Otsuru.
I want hair that compliments me.
It's okay isn't it?
I'm sorry I was told to do only this customer today.
One or two. What's the difference?
The more hair you do the more you'll make.
I only do what our owner tells me.
You don't have to tell her at all!
You can keep the extra money you make.
Then you can give me a discount too.
I can't decide that on my own.
- She sure is dull! - That's her virtue.
You sure are serious. I'm impressed.
Go back and ask your owner.
How do you like it?
Thank you.
I like it! How much?
I'll pay for the last time too.
She didn't tell me how much to charge.
You didn't even ask?
I was just told to come here to do your hair.
You can't do hair for nothing!
Ask her and I will pay you the next time.
Thank you.
- Don't forget me too. - I won't.
Thank you.
You can come every other day so come at the same time.
This is from me. You can keep it for yourself.
No I wasn't told about accepting money!
Excuse me.
She's a funny one!
It's unusual in this day and age.
Otsuru gets upset if we don't tip her.
She's still innocent.
But she'll soon get to be like Otsuru.
Oshin is nothing like that Otsuru. She can be trusted.
Sorry to be late.
Oshige's been waiting for you.
- Look at your hair! - Isn't it nice!
It looks terrible! I'll fix it!
Osome likes it. She has a new hairdresser.
You'd better be careful or you'll lose business.
You should start giving us discounts.
That hurts!
What's the meaning of sending Oshin out to do hair by herself?
The customer asked for her personally.
If Oshin does something wrong you will be blamed.
Besides she isn't good enough to charge money!
You sent her out ahead of Okei and Onatsu!
I'm back.
Who would pay for your services?
This is all nonsense!
I didn't get paid... Should I have asked for it?
You came back without being paid? You got nothing?
I'm sorry.
I wasn't told to charge.
- That's all right. - But...
Oshin's still in training.
I didn't say anything about money
because she's still just practicing.
Just work hard to do a good job.
And you will soon get other customers.
Don't even think about getting paid just yet.
Okay.
Somebody else asked for my services today.
Good.
That means you can practice more.
- You'd let me. - Yes.
See how far you can go with your skills.
Don't charge them until I tell you to.
I won't.
You're under my care and I'll let you have your
own business once you are trained
but you can accept tips if someone offers it to you.
Okay.
You can do Western-style hair too. If you like.
What you do out on a house call is your business.
We will have fewer Japanese-style hair to do.
It's the only way to survive.
Years of training will mean less now.
Pleasing a customer is what counts now.
Tell the other girls too.
I'll go make dinner.
What are you doing? It's past 3 o'clock!
I'm too busy to go out on a call today.
Don't be silly. Your customers are waiting!
But we're so busy here today.
Don't inconvenience your clients or you will never survive.
It'll jeopardize my position too. You want me to lose face?
Please take over for me.
We can't ask you to do our hair for nothing!
Those are my orders.
She says it'll be good practice for me.
This owner of hers sounds strange too.
Maybe I will have Oshin do my hair too.
Just because it's free?
I'll be glad to do it.
- Will you do mine too? - Yes.
There's not enough time today to do everybody.
- Come by earlier the next time. - Please do.
I will stop going to my hairdresser.
I'll cancel Otsuru and switch to you.
I can count on you?
Yes.
You look great with that style!
Oshin has created a style just for me.
I didn't copy anyone. It's my style and mine only!
- Do you like it? - Yes thank you.
That's it for today.
I have a favor to ask of you.
Come with me.
I know you're busy but I need your help.
I need you to write a letter for me.
Here's the stationary. I'll make some ink for you.
Some people here can write but I can't ask them.
I know you can be trusted to keep a secret.
It's a letter to one of our customers.
He hasn't been coming around lately.
The ink is ready. Just write as I dictate.
Okay.
My dearest Ryuzo.
My heart is breaking.
I haven't seen you for days.
I cry at night thinking of you.
Please come to see me.
I'll be waiting.
Your my sun and the stars!
Does that sound funny?
Um no...
The sun and the stars... Is that all?
And flowers too.
Please come.
From Someko. To my dearest Ryuzo.
You really are good aren't you Oshin?
What's the address?
He wrote it down for me.
He's so good-looking! I wish you could see him.
He has his own business and he's single too!
Don't tell any of the other girls!
I know you can be trusted. Thanks!
You've been a great help!
Now he'll know how I feel about him.
This is for writing the letter for me.
Take it. Otherwise I can't ask you
to write me letters the next time!
Please mail this for me on your way home.
I really appreciate your help.
- I can help you any time. - Thanks.
If he comes to see me I will treat you!
Oshin was now seeing a world she had not known.
Everything was new to her even writing love letters.
Oshin tried to imagine what this man looked like.
She had no idea of the role he was to play later in her life.
Episode 59
I did two other people today.
I didn't charge them but they tipped me.
They gave you this much?
I wrote a letter for Someko too.
She had you write a love letter?
Yes. I know I shouldn't but I was doing a favor for my customer.
I'm sorry.
Why not? You should make your clients happy.
I hear there's a lot of competition out there
among people doing Western-style hair.
I suppose this is all part of the service.
Here. Keep the tip for writing the letter.
No it's the rule here to turn all money in to you.
Besides while I'm out I can't do my maid's job.
So it's only fair if I turn in all my tips to you.
I see.
Then I will keep it for you until later.
Do these women want you to continue?
Yes Someko's friends all want me to do their hair.
That's great!
It's because it's free.
I think it's also because you do a good job.
To do a lot of hair is the best practice.
You think I'll look good with Western-style hair?
You've been too conservative!
You need a new look to please customers.
If you don't like it go back to Otsuru.
There are girls waiting to have Oshin do their hair!
A girl in my building admired my hair too!
She has been to school
and she said Oshin has a sense of style!
What does "sense" mean?
It's English.
Don't advertise Oshin too much. She won't have time for us.
You should leave your owner's place.
Be free!
You can find your own customers.
I'm still in training. I still follow orders.
I'd be glad to help her get out on her own.
Otsuru I canceled you today. Did somebody else call you?
Who would call her?
I'm just visiting with sweets for all.
Thanks. You shouldn't have!
I don't mind you canceling me out.
I might get your business back.
So this is your new favorite girl.
There are so many new untrained girls working.
One does need proper training though.
That's how it is in a democracy!
There she goes with her democracy again.
We can all be whatever we want to be.
It's all up to one's skills!
That holds true even for hairdressers.
It's my own fault that I have no skills.
As long as you understand.
- Where were you? - You're back early!
You said you were visiting your friends.
Why didn't you stay out longer?
I told you I just needed to find out what's going on at school.
I got worried thinking about you all alone.
I asked you to stay in the room!
I just went to the beauty parlor.
You should've left me a note.
I'm not that old yet. Don't worry.
Shouldn't you be back in classes at school?
I asked my friends to take notes for me.
But...
In college you can afford to skip classes for a couple of months.
You're more important to me!
If something happened to you I would never get over it.
Don't treat me like an old person!
Why not!
This is my big chance to get to travel with you.
Besides you are paying for everything.
You're after my money?
Are you going somewhere today?
You went to a beauty parlor. Are you seeing someone?
No.
I just felt like going that's all.
Remember that parlor I used to work for?
You went there?
Things sure have changed.
Half of the beauticians are men. They all wear the same uniforms
and work only from nine to six each day.
It's as though they were working in an office.
I used to get up at five each morning
doing all the cleaning make breakfast
and work all the way through till after midnight.
I did everything. Sewing and washing too!
You were lucky to go the Western-style route.
Otherwise you would've had to work as a maid for so many more years.
It was a time of transition in hair.
I still can't believe you were a hairdresser.
Nobody has ever told me.
No one knew about it. What's the use of talking about it?
You were determined to make it your career.
Instead of supermarkets
you could've had a big chain of beauty parlors.
I had my reasons for quitting.
But back then I worked hard so that I could have my own business.
I did everything!
I wrote letters for people. Sewed a kimono overnight.
It was now 1919 and Oshin had turned 19 too.
Going out to do hair had become a routine.
In January of that year
Matsui Sumako an actress committed suicide after her lover
Shimamura Hogetsu also killed himself.
It was in all the papers.
I want to die in love like Matsui Sumako!
I wish I could meet such a romantic man.
But it's no good if it's one-sided.
I don't mind. I just want to serve him.
You sound so old-fashioned!
There's no old or new in love.
Do you have a man?
I bet you do. You're a pretty girl!
I live in a house full of women.
And all your clients are women too.
Some of us can't find one even if we work around men all the time!
I need a favor from you Oshin.
You want her to write a love letter for you?
No it's a letter to my family.
I need help with a letter too!
You're getting a lot of business. Just charge them a lot!
To my dearest Ryuzo.
He comes to our café.
I don't want the other girls to know so keep it a secret.
I miss you and thank you for dinner.
I have never had French food before.
But since Someko and Shigeko were with us
I couldn't tell you how I really felt.
Next time
let's spend some time together. Just the two of us.
Am I talking too fast?
No.
He's so good to me.
But Someko and Shigeko always come between us!
What's taking Oyae so long? We'll have to start work soon.
Thanks for waiting.
Oshin's such a good writer. Where did she learn?
I can't write half as good as she can!
Are you really writing home?
Was Oyae's letter really to her parents?
- Yes. - What did she say?
You don't tell secrets? Good you can be trusted!
It's not that I can't write but my handwriting is bad
so I'm embarrassed. They say you can write real well.
- Not really... - Ready?
My dearest Ryuzo.
Don't look at me like that! I'm young and I'm in love.
His family owns a lot of land. I come from a family of fishermen.
But under a democracy we are all equal.
He says even we can get married!
Oshin had already written three letters to Ryuzo from Someko.
Now she wrote two more from Shigeko and Yaeko.
They all were in love with Ryuzo.
Oshin was curious about this man.
But she felt sorry for the girls being
taken advantage of by this single man.
She was also concerned that this man
would recognize her handwriting.
She felt badly again for the girls.
Episode 60
After a couple of months of doing hair for the café waitresses
Oshin became popular among the workers of the neighborhood.
The café girls appreciated Oshin's innovative hairstyles.
They also appreciated Oshin's kind and helpful manner
and she was invited to do hair at other establishments as well.
Oshin's days were busier than ever.
I need your help in making me a kimono by next Sunday.
I'll have it for you by Saturday.
That's my Oshin! I'll tip you well.
You don't have to I'm just happy to help.
You're too nice!
Can you pick up something for me tomorrow?
You are taking advantage of her too!
I don't mind. I'll pick it up on my way here.
You're doing too much!
I know you were told to make house calls is part of your training
but you don't have to try so hard to please the clients.
I'd overlook it if it was just once or twice
but are you a hair- dresser or a seamstress?
I'm sorry. I just wanted to help out.
There are limits to things!
You write letters for them and do their errands too.
Maybe you should give up on going out to do hair
if you have to go that far to get customers.
A hairdresser must please her clients to survive!
It's only natural for me to do all I can
as long as I don't inconvenience all of you here.
Don't talk big just because you get tips!
If you were on your own maybe this is good.
But you're still just an apprentice here.
What you do reflects on the owner too!
Stop this disgrace now!
What's all the noise so late at night?
I'm sorry to wake you. I'm just fed up with Oshin!
She's taking advantage of you and doing as she pleases.
It's not a good example to set for the others!
Fine.
I'll talk to Oshin. You go on up to bed.
I'm sorry it's all my fault.
I think the time has come for you to leave.
If you stay here you'd still be on the lowest rung on the ladder.
A mere maid.
I can't always be protecting you.
I let you go out to do hair as training...
But once you start getting paid you can't stay here.
It might sound silly but we all have rules.
I don't want you here being just a maid.
It's best if you go out on your own.
I'm not throwing you out. You have many client...
And you're good enough to charge for your services.
You can make it on your own.
Yes but...
Sure it will be tough but you'll be free to be yourself.
You won't have to do maid's work.
You'll have your own time to do your own work.
And you can take on more clients. I think that's best for you.
It doesn't have to be right away.
I owe you so much and I haven't helped you out at all.
You already worked for me for three years that's enough.
I want you to be independent.
You have something that the others lack.
You can do it!
I'll find you a place to live so don't worry.
Just trust your own skills.
This will be your true test!
You'll be going out on your own?
Your teacher sounds very understanding.
Well good luck!
Now we have to start paying you for your services.
Of course!
She's good enough to get paid.
I'm not that good and I'll make it cheap.
Don't give discounts to other people!
You'll need more clients too.
I'm afraid I might not get any.
Don't worry. We'll help you out.
We can help you find a room too.
Thank you I just need a place to sleep.
You'll need to cook too.
If you eat out all your money will be gone.
We'll buy you all the kitchenware you need.
Maybe a small table and cushions too.
We have shop owners among our clients.
We'll talk to them and get good discounts!
Oshin was happy...
She felt unsure about leaving her teacher's home
even though the others treated her with contempt.
But these café girls were giving her confidence.
I'll do that!
No it's still my job for as long as I'm here.
You're smart to leave.
You know Japanese-style hair is going out.
You just pack up and leave.
Young people can be so ungrateful.
You're still doing this kind of work?
I have to find a room before I can leave.
You're so hard-working!
That man came to see me. The one you wrote the letter to.
Ryuzo?
He took me out for sushi after work.
But Shigeko and Oyae tagged along too!
He came because of that letter you wrote.
I'll treat you to something good!
That's not why I came!
I came to tell you that a café on the Ginza
wants you to come out and do hair.
The Ginza?
Ryuzo brought the message.
This is the place.
It's a classy place writers and artists go there!
The waitresses have all been to school too.
They're probably awful but just bear with it.
Maybe you can get regular clients there.
The more customers the better.
Working on the Ginza will give you class too.
So you don't have to come and do us today.
But...
They want you there at 5 o'clock.
Just do your best. It's the Ginza!
Otsuru you work here too?
What do you think you're doing!
You're here to take my clients away?
I was asked to come here...
I've been working here for ages and now they tell me I'm out!
So it was you!
- I didn't know... - How dare you!
I let you take Kanda away from me.
They were all stingy and I was sick of it.
But I'll never give up my Ginza business!
Why don't you just leave!
I'm not here because I want to be here.
Then go!
Where I work is my business!
You're saying I can't work here?
I have an appointment.
You can't just come in here.
Tell her! She's just a country girl.
Otsuru does all the hair here.
I was asked to come. Don't tell me what to do.
Don't be disrespectful!
She needs to be taught a lesson!
I'll show you what goes on here.
Don't try to get tough with me!
Don't take me for a fool!
Stop it!
Stay out of this!
You're persistent!
Young master...
Why are you picking on this girl?
She was being disrespectful.
Are you all right? You're bleeding.
I'm sorry for causing all this trouble.
Miss Okayo!
It's you!
Oshin?
Episode 61
We used to race each other as kids...
And you always won!
I should've known you would catch me.
You can't run with shoes like that!
You lost your heel.
These are new!
I'm sorry. They must've been expensive.
Are you all right?
Sure I am!
Let me see.
You must've banged your shin while running.
You're so reckless!
Come and I'll treat it for you.
I'll help you walk.
It's not far. Just bear with it.
Oshin!
You haven't changed.
Walking in a crowd wears me out!
This trip is wearing you out.
- It's only just begun! - Where to after Tokyo?
I have several other places to visit.
Tokyo is where you spent your golden youth.
My youth? I guess so...
I was trying my best just to live.
Thinking back... I also have a lot of regrets too.
Things I should've done and shouldn't have done.
That's not like you!
Too bad we can't know things until they happen.
Like with Okayo...
Our meeting like that changed her life.
Other people's lives too.
What is it grandma?
Okayo had nothing to do with my life.
It would have been best if we hadn't met.
This might sting a bit.
Is Kota well?
Is he out today?
When will he be back?
I wouldn't want to be in the way.
There it's done.
Thank you. It feels much better.
I'll clean up for you before Kota comes back.
No he's not coming.
Miss Okayo?
Oshin...
Yes?
I'm sorry!
I knew about you and Kota
but I went ahead and did a shameful thing.
I agonized over how to apologize to you.
What I've done is unforgivable.
Don't be silly.
I read that letter Kota sent you... and I went to see him in your place.
I wanted to go with him.
I left my family... and everything behind.
I betrayed you too.
No use talking about it now.
It's all over.
I don't mind. As long as you two are happy.
Oshin...
Kota left me.
He only visited me a few times in Tokyo.
And he hardly told me about what he was doing.
He would be gone for months at a time.
He's busy with all his work!
He's involved with various farm and labor movements
all over the country. He leads strikes too.
Isn't that what he does?
I know that much...
And he never promised to marry me.
I haven't seen him in six months.
He's forgotten me.
He never did love me.
He doesn't write?
You don't know where he is?
I've given up.
I'm being punished for having betrayed my family.
And I've betrayed you.
That's not true.
But I'm glad we found each other again.
I ran from you because I was scared and embarrassed.
Now I feel relieved.
Having apologized has made me feel better.
I had no idea you were a hairdresser in Tokyo!
I'd heard of Oshin the hairdresser but I had no idea it was you.
I thought you had gotten married in Sakata.
Did you turn down the marriage
and come out to Tokyo because of Kota?
No.
I didn't want to marry that man in Sakata.
I wanted to be able to make a living on my own.
Kota had nothing to do with my decision.
You sure are great!
I'm just a waitress at a café. It's just fun and laughs that's all.
I have no idea what's in store for me tomorrow.
- Miss Okayo... - Yes?
Please go home to Sakata. This life isn't right for you!
I abandoned everything I have no home to return to.
Your mother and grand- mother are waiting for you!
I would only be in the way if I went back.
Sayo will be taking over the family business.
Sayo is all they need!
So you didn't know...
Miss Osayo died last year.
Sayo's dead?
Kaga-ya has only you to count on!
Think of how your family feels.
Only you can take over Kaga-ya now!
I wouldn't have said anything if you and Kota were happy with each other.
But since you mentioned that you've given up on him...
You don't have to suffer here in Tokyo anymore!
Going home would be best for everyone.
You can have everything back home.
Why suffer here in Tokyo working as a café waitress?
If I go back I'll never get to see Kota again.
If I wait here he might still come back.
No matter how badly he treats me he's the first and only man I love.
I threw everything away to be with him.
If I go back to Sakata
my three years of hardships would've been for nothing!
I won't go home to Sakata.
Please forget all this.
Don't tell them that you saw me.
Please!
Oshin now realized how much Kayo loved Kota.
And strangely she wasn't disturbed by the revelation.
Episode 62
You're first today?
I wanted to be alone with you.
I heard you had some trouble yesterday.
You heard already?
He called me about it last night.
I'm sorry. I ended up causing you trouble.
What are you saying?
It's my fault for sending you over there!
He wanted me to apologize to you.
I should've just backed down. I shouldn't have fought.
He was surprised at how it turned out.
He was the one who called me to have you come.
By the time he got there you were on the ground.
He said he paid off the bodyguard but he feels badly.
Is that what happened? Now I feel badly.
It's only natural! He asked for you to come.
Isn't he good-looking?
I didn't notice...
He said he'll return the writing set you left on the ground.
I guess he hasn't brought it by yet.
I offered to take it to you myself.
He insisted on apologizing to you personally.
He did bring it by but I was out.
I guess he did...
He's a good man.
That's too bad...
I wish you could've had a better look at him.
He wants you over there again to do hair.
I've had enough of that place already.
I already have enough work here.
I only went there because of you. I don't want to go back again.
Working on the Ginza would be good for you!
They give better tips too.
It'll do you good.
You'll need more clients to make it on your own.
I like it here.
Ginza is too pretentious for me.
I agree!
Who cares about the Ginza!
We'll all help you make it on your own.
Thank you.
We'd better write a letter canceling the appointment.
Calling him won't do.
He has this old man who looks out for him.
He takes all the calls.
He's the son of a big landowner.
I'll leave it to you. Write the letter as if I wrote it.
Okay.
I have a couple of more letters I need to collect loans.
Use the same format as the last one.
- Just fill in the name. - All right.
Your next client is here.
Oshin you have a guest waiting outside.
Go see who it is.
I'll be right back.
Is it a man?
Too bad a woman.
Good.
We want to spare her man trouble.
Hello Miss. Okayo.
I'm sorry to call you out like this.
How did you find me?
Somebody told me you would be here doing hair.
How's your leg?
It's much better. Come inside.
I came to tell you something.
I've decided to go to Sakata for a visit.
I'll go and accept my punishment.
But I'm keeping my room as is.
Kota might come back.
I'll leave him a note to come and see you.
Please take care of him while I'm gone.
But I'm sure he won't come back.
I haven't had word from him in over six months.
But just in case he does send a telegram.
I'll rush back!
When will you go?
I'm taking the night train tonight.
I'll see you off at the station.
No it's not like we won't see each other again.
Besides they might throw me out once I get to Sakata.
Either way I have no intention of staying there forever.
But...
My job is to wait for Kota.
For that I have to be in Tokyo.
Oshin...
He's more important to me than anything.
Doesn't that woman work in the Ginza?
At the café Ryuzo frequents.
I hear she's the most popular waitress there.
She's a graduate of an all- girls' school in Yamagata.
She's smart so all the writers and artists like her.
That's the type of girl Ryuzo prefers.
No wonder he's spending a lot of time there.
She paints too. She's not like us.
We'd never win him over from her.
- You're in love with Ryuzo too? - Oh come on!
He just has a little money that's all.
You're the one!
He's just a customer that's all.
He thinks he's so good-looking!
He think he's a big lover!
Who's there?
It's me Oshin.
You scared me. Nobody ever comes to visit.
I thought it might be Kota.
Sorry.
I managed to get some time off
to see if i could help you with anything.
I'm going to travel light.
You have everything you need back in Sakata.
I'd better straighten up around here.
In case Kota comes while you're gone.
He won't come back and I won't be long.
I'll clean this place all up by the time you return.
But you're busy.
I'm leaving where I'm at now. I'll have lots of free time.
Thanks I appreciate it. I'm not good at those things.
It's only natural. You grew up being cared for.
I'll be coming by often to clean for you.
I'll get that.
Hurry and lock the door.
I thought you were ill?
Mr. Tanokura!
You missed work so I came by to cheer you up.
I had a hard time finding this place.
Thanks for coming.
You're that hairdresser!
I'm so sorry about last night.
How's your injury?
I feel so badly about what happened Oshin.
You can never say no to a woman!
I know a girl for whom Oshin does hair.
You delivered that letter writing box?
Of course!
At least you and Okayo got to see each other again.
It wasn't a waste so please forgive me.
He's been a big help to me.
She came to Tokyo to paint but all she thinks about her lover
so I try to encourage her.
You've finally decided to go back home?
I haven't given up on him or on my painting career.
I'll be coming back to Tokyo.
- You'll be back? - Yeah.
Then I will give you no parting gift.
Go home and apologize for your unfilial acts.
And work more on your art. A woman needs inspiration.
Otherwise you'll forever be dependent on a man.
For when we meet again!
- Cheers! - Cheers!
This was Oshin's first real meeting with Tanokura Ryuzo.
He lived in a world so vastly different
from the one in which she lived.
She had no idea what he did for a living.
She thought he was a silly man for going to clubs
and cafés every night. Night after night.
Kayo left on a train that night.
Episode 63
That day Oshin awoke earlier than usual.
Kayo would be reaching Sakata by early evening.
She wanted to pray for her safe journey.
What do you want?
Where are you going?
Who are you?
Someone's here!
Kayo!
I'm home.
I'm glad. You look well.
Kayo's home!
What's all the ruckus about?
Kayo's home!
Kayo?
I'm sorry to have caused you worry.
We're so glad you're home!
Grandma...
Our prayers have been answered.
Please don't! We're just happy that she's back.
It's okay. I deserve to be hit.
You can hit me as many times as you like.
I came prepared.
Go ahead. Hit me!
I abandoned you all.
I left thinking that I'd never come back.
So I don't expect you to forgive me.
But I ran into Oshin...
You saw Oshin?
She told me about Sayo...
I'd been hoping that Sayo could care for you all in my place
but when I heard what happened I just had to come back.
I came prepared for you to send me away.
Kayo...
Just tell me to go and I'll return to Tokyo.
I'm really very sorry for having been unfilial.
You have train soot all over your face!
We'll talk after you wash up.
Your room is just as you left it. I knew you'd be back!
I'm so glad you're back.
Three days had passed since Kayo left.
Oshin was busy cleaning up Kayo's room.
She wanted the room clean for Kota should he return.
She sincerely wished Kota and Kayo happiness together.
- I'm back. - Welcome back.
Sorry I'm late. I'll start dinner.
Don't worry.
You're about to set out on your own.
But I'm still a maid as long as I'm here.
I have to do what I can.
I bought some things for dinner.
You'd better find a room quickly and move out.
I don't mind working here.
Besides I'll miss this place once I leave.
What if I'm not able to make it on my own?
Oh you're back?
Yes thank you for giving me time off.
You're looking after your former employer.
I found you a room.
One of our customers told me of a place.
An old couple have a room upstairs.
It's nearby so if you can come to me for advice
and if we get busy here you can come and help.
Thank you.
Go take a look and see if you like it.
You have to get things moving.
Otherwise your plans will be sidetracked.
You're ready aren't you?
Yes.
You decided on that room?
The landlord is very nice and it's reasonable.
You will have more time to yourself
you'll get to keep all the money you earn!
The sooner the better.
I guess we'll have to start paying her now.
Of course she has to eat.
I don't know if I'll be able to make it alone.
It's not like you!
You'll be all right and we'll find you more clients.
We won't let you starve!
When will you move?
- Tomorrow. - We'll help.
No I don't have anything so I can manage.
We bought you pots and pans and such.
Just leave it to us.
Good morning.
Come in.
No formalities...
You will still be in the neighborhood.
This is the tips you've gotten from clients.
I've been keeping it for you.
Thank you.
You'll really be on your own from this day on.
Nobody will help you. Don't count on anybody else.
Understand?
I understand.
Be a good hairdresser.
Hello!
I'll be moving in today.
All your friends are here.
What took you so long?
We just finished putting everything away.
Where are your things?
This is all I have...
She really doesn't have anything.
Of course not! She worked as a live-in.
We figured she wouldn't have money either.
That's why we bought her all the furnishings.
A table and some cushions a teapot and cups.
These are all from me.
You'll need a futon to sleep on.
Osono!
Don't worry.
One of my clients sells them.
He gave this to me in place of a tip.
Oshin...
I got you this pot and some dishes from one of my customers too.
He gave me a discount.
I got you a sewing kit.
A kettle and a brazier to keep you warm.
Thank you all!
This is to celebrate your new independence.
Thank you.
We couldn't get you the one thing you really need.
Mirror stands cost too much for us. Sorry.
You've done enough!
You'll need one for your business to do hair.
I'll just be making housecalls for now.
You will soon have enough money to buy one
- and maybe a set of drawers too. - You can do it Oshin.
Oshin.
Oritsu!
This letter just came for you.
Thank you for bringing it to me.
From Kayo
What will you do back in Tokyo?
I told you I'm studying painting.
You work as a waitress. You're not painting!
You wouldn't let me go.
That's why I had to get a job to support myself.
Don't be silly.
You don't have it in you to be an artist.
I can tell!
You probably have a lover in Tokyo.
She's not that kind of girl!
She's old enough to have a man or two.
I'm not saying that's bad.
If you have one why don't you bring him to meet us?
Any decent man would come
and pay his respects to his future wife's family.
A man who won't do that can never make you happy.
It's just a passing fancy isn't it?
I won't try to break you two up if you really love each other.
But if he's the kind of man you can't bring home... Do reconsider.
The Kaga-ya business needs you. We can't just close it down!
I reached Sakata safely.
My family's forgiven me and I'm glad I came home.
But now that Sayo's dead
my situation here is more complicated.
I have no intention of staying on to take over Kaga-ya
and I must wait for Kota so I have to go back to Tokyo.
But I don't know when I'll be able to return to Tokyo.
Episode 64
Oshin finally found a room and now she was on her own.
She lived upstairs from the elderly landlord couple.
The waitresses at the café helped her find new clients.
For the first time Oshin had time for herself.
She also did sewing for the waitresses.
Oshin!
Yes?
Got it?
Are you Oshin?
Yes.
Here's your mirror stand. Where do you want it?
- A mirror stand? - Right.
I didn't order a mirror stand.
You're Oshin aren't you?
I am.
And this is the address.
Mr. Tanokura ordered it to be delivered.
Mr. Tanokura the businessman.
Ryuzo?
Let's take it in.
Wait a minute!
Please take it back.
It's too expensive!
But...
I can't accept it... Take it back.
What kind of man is Mr. Tanokura?
He had a mirror stand delivered to me.
He did? That's so nice.
Maybe because of the letters you wrote for me
he's been coming around lately.
And he asks about you each time he comes.
I guess he still feels badly for that incident in Ginza.
I told him that you needed a mirror stand and he remembered.
What kind of mirror stand was it?
I didn't get a good look. I had them take it back.
You returned it?
I have no reason to accept gifts from him.
Don't be silly! You need it.
There's no reason for me to accept it.
Sure there's a reason. You got hurt on account of him.
It was all his fault so he sent it as an apology.
It wasn't his fault.
Those of us who do not have money
have to learn to get things from those who do!
How else can a woman make it alone?
What a waste!
Those things are expensive!
I'm trying to get him to buy me a fur stole.
I'm home.
Welcome home.
There's a guest waiting for you.
He insisted so I let him wait upstairs.
He brought us a gift too.
Such a nice man! Be sure you thank him for us.
I'm sorry to call on you unexpectedly.
I'm sorry about sending that mirror stand.
I was so surprised when you didn't accept it.
I should have explained. That's why I waited.
I can't accept an expensive gift like this.
I got you into trouble by inviting you over
to do hair for the girls at the Ginza café.
I've been meaning to make it up to you.
Then I heard you needed a mirror stand.
It's to apologize for what I put you through.
Just because of that?
It's also a gift to celebrate your going out on your own.
I have no reason to accept gifts from you.
Why?
After the dinner we had together before Okayo left for home
she asked me to take good care of you.
And I'd like to do so.
I admire a woman who's trying to make it on her own.
I want to do all I can to help!
Call me anytime. I'll be going now.
You write very well.
I got letters from three different women
all written in the same hand. I was wondering who wrote them.
I'm sure you think I'm no good for being the object
of affection from three different women.
Those girls aren't after me...
They want my money! I thought I'd better tell you.
Miss Okayo it's been a month since you left for home.
How are you? Please write.
I go to your room to clean up from time to time
but there's no sign of Kota having returned.
Mr. Tanokura bought me a mirror stand.
But I feel uncomfortable accepting such a gift.
I can't figure him out.
Is he smart or stupid? He sure is difficult to grasp.
I haven't unpacked the mirror stand yet.
If Kota should write or come back I will send word.
Please be good to your family.
Kayo.
I need to talk to you.
What's the news from Oshin?
She's gone out on her own and is working very hard.
She's steady. She'll make it.
Are you sure you don't have a lover in Tokyo?
If so why isn't he writing?
You've been here a month already. Isn't he concerned for you?
Give up on this man!
Please.
Kayo!
Go in.
We've found a husband for you.
Tomorrow is the marriage meeting.
We think he's perfect for you and Kaga-ya as an adoptive husband.
Understood?
He's the third son of an Osaka rice dealer.
And he's a graduate of the Imperial University in Tokyo.
Good family and good education.
We're honored.
He saw your picture and fell in love!
Now that the Great War is over Japan is among the world's powers!
Our economy will keep growing!
We have to upgrade our business too.
We need a college graduate to run our business.
You're the heiress
and we need a qualified man to be your adoptive husband.
I asked you to stay at least a month.
Why do you think I asked you to do that?
I figured that if you had a man in Tokyo
he'd surely come to see you within that time.
I decided that if this man loves you enough to visit us here
I would let you marry him.
But there's no word from him at all.
You're not even trying to get us to meet him.
Nothing's come of it at all!
Forget this man.
I figured as much!
I deserve freedom. It's old-fashioned
to expect me to sacrifice myself for the family business!
I want no part of it!
Why don't you wake up?
This man doesn't even care if you're gone a month!
He'll never make you happy.
You'll have nothing but heartache with him!
I know that but I don't mind.
I'm willing to spend my whole life waiting for him.
I won't regret it. It's my life! I want to live it the way I want.
Kayo!
I don't care who takes over Kaga-ya!
I don't care about all the money we have.
I refuse to be tied down by it.
Forget about me. Just let me go.
No! Don't go!
You're the heiress to the Kaga-ya business.
I kept it going all these years for you!
You're my everything!
I never asked to take over Kaga-ya.
I have things in life more important to me.
Forgive me!
Grandma?
Grandma...
Someone!
Help!
We need help!
Are you okay?
Someone! Come and help me!
You still insist on going back to Tokyo?
Who do you think made your poor grandmother ill?
The doctor says it's caused by years of worry and stress.
She worried so much about you each day.
Then Sayo died too.
If you don't stop causing her pain she will never get well.
She's so concerned about the future of our business too.
That's why I can't come back to Tokyo.
I had my marriage meeting yesterday.
But I haven't decided yet if I'll take a husband
and take over the family business.
My feelings for Kota haven't changed.
But I feel very foolish for caring for a man
who doesn't care for me and for causing my family pain.
Oshin knew what Kayo was going through.
She still came to clean her room
but she didn't want Kayo to come back.
Oshin wanted Kayo to stay in Sakata and fulfill her
duty of taking over the Kaga-ya business.
Episode 65
They've just brought the wedding kimono over.
You sure chose a good pattern!
Kayo is tall so she'll look great in it.
I can't die until I see my Kayo married.
You'll be fine. Your heart is a little weak that's all.
The doctor says all you need is rest.
I know my body best.
If it's after the wedding I don't care when I die.
I won't die until I see her in her wedding gown.
There's no time. If she suffers another attack
she'll surely die so please get married.
That's the least you can do for her!
Then let me go to Tokyo just once!
You can't cause her any more worry!
She'll die!
Oshin can take care of your things in Tokyo.
You mustn't go to Tokyo!
But Kayo still couldn't give up on Kota.
She planned on leaving no matter what if Kota should come back.
She was willing to abandon her family and Kaga-ya
so she could live her own life.
She was just awaiting word from Oshin.
Has it been a month already?
You seem to be doing fine.
Yes thanks to you. I've been getting new clients too.
I do about 10 clients each day.
That's great!
I make it cheap. Just 10 sen per customer.
10 sen?
It's not like doing Japanese-style hair!
Besides I'm not that good yet. But most customers tip me too.
I hear you're also doing sewing.
Your landlord is very impressed with you.
I can't just sit and idle my time away.
Sewing helps to pay my rent.
I made 32 yen last month doing just hair.
With my sewing and tips it came to 47 yen 65 sen.
Earning so much at your age?
I owe it all to you.
I've brought you something. It's not much.
I hope you like it.
I sewed it myself.
And these sweets are for everybody.
I appreciate all this
but keep in mind that you left here on your own
and that is why we didn't help
you to move into your new place.
We need to set that straight.
Everything you did you did on your own.
So no more gifts please.
Oshin...
Your mother must be worried about you.
Send her something instead of buying gifts for me.
After three years you're finally able to help her.
I'll do that.
Aren't you glad?
You've kept the promise you made to your late sister.
Be wary of clients...
If one leave you they all leave.
Take very good care of each one!
But I suppose you already know that.
That night Oshin wrote to her mother in Yamagata.
She was also enclosing 20 yen with the letter.
She had earned it all herself.
It was big money to a girl
who was traded into servitude at age seven for a single bale of rice.
20 yen was that big money?
It was 1919 a year after the Great War.
Prices kept going up.
One sho of rice was 60 sen and that caused an uproar.
An average office worker made 25 or 30 yen per month.
So it was a big deal for a young girl
to be earning close to 50 yen per month!
Those were my happiest moments. It was like a dream.
I'd been working for three years with no salary at all.
Then I was making all this money every day!
And now you run a chain of supermarkets!
A single yen meant more to me than 100 million yen today!
How soon people forget...
They're never satisfied no matter how much they have.
And people lose a sense of their values.
You're making me feel guilty.
I changed too.
I've forgotten what it really felt like
to have earned my first 47 yen 65 sen.
You were 19 years old? In your prime of youth!
I felt then that luck was coming my way.
Your landlord said you were at the post office.
Okayo asked me to come by.
She's back from Sakata?
No she called me on the telephone. She needs to talk to you.
She wants you to be by my phone at my office around noon today.
It's because there's no phone where you live.
And you came all this way just to tell me?
How else could I let you know?
Thank you very much! I know how busy you are.
It's for Okayo. I'm glad to help her out.
It must be very important for her to have called.
I wonder what it is...
She wouldn't tell me anything.
Won't you come and wait at my place?
You could come later but you might get lost.
Yes. I'd be glad to follow you there.
We'll get a taxi.
I can walk.
Sorry but I can't be away from work for that long.
I'm going out to Yokohama.
Good work!
Please come in.
This is Oshin the hairdresser.
She's the friend of that caller from Sakata.
She's expecting a call around noon.
Pardon the intrusion.
I have to get back to work.
Take a seat.
Tanokura Trading.
Yes I have just the material for you.
Thank you. I'll see you later.
Tanokura Trading dealt in clothing fabrics.
Oshin had never seen a business such as this one.
She was impressed.
Oshin is that you?
Sorry for calling you up like this.
I have to get married and take an adoptive husband.
So much has happened since I came back.
But if Kota should come back
I'll go back to Tokyo as soon as I can so call me!
But if I get no news before my wedding day
I will forget Kota once and for all.
I'll accept as my fate.
I'm counting on Kota.
So call me even if it's my nuptial night!
At the office it's all men so we can't make tea.
We're only busy in the mornings when we take the orders.
The men make their deliveries in the afternoon.
So we have time for a leisurely lunch.
What Okayo had to say was that serious?
She's taking a husband in Sakata.
She is?
That's great!
She used to tell me a lot about her lover.
I'm glad she's finally getting over him.
I hear he's involved in those illegal labor movements.
She could never be happy with such a man.
It's best that she stays home and takes over her family business.
I used to tell her that all the time.
You knew that much about her?
She didn't have many people she could talk to.
I'm happy for her.
I think this is all very good for Okayo.
Do you really think so?
Yes.
She's like a flower in a greenhouse.
If she tries to live like the wees she will wither.
After she gets married she'll forget all about her lover!
Now...
Order anything you want.
Who's there?
Oshin is that you?
I wasn't sure who it was so I hid.
I'm still running from the secret police.
But I never expected to see you here.
Episode 66
Why did I have to run into Kota again?
If I hadn't I wouldn't have had to suffer as I did.
Madam your drink is ready.
Grandma...
I ruined Okayo's life.
Her whole life.
I see...
Okayo's gone back home.
I was traveling for about six months.
She waited for you.
I had no idea you two were friends again.
I didn't even know that you were in Tokyo.
What do you do now?
- I'm a hairdresser. - As a live-in?
I trained for three years
but I've been on my own for a month now.
I'm glad. I heard the study period is pretty tough.
But it's best for a woman to be able to stand alone.
Congratulations!
I have no right to say such things to you.
I haven't the right even to face you.
You must think that I'm terrible.
It's all right... It's all in the past.
You must be hungry I'll fix you something.
It was May 20th...
I got off the train at Sakata and waited for you.
I was going to take you with me to Tokyo no matter what.
But Okayo came in your place.
She told me you were getting married.
Ceremonial gifts were to be exchanged that day.
I felt glad for you.
No matter how much I loved you
I didn't think I could ever make you happy.
A man who's devoted to the labor movement shouldn't be married.
But...
Please take good care of Miss Okayo.
She's still waiting for you.
Please call her in Sakata now or she'll be forced to take a husband.
- There's still time! - Oshin...
Kaga-ya has nobody else they can make their heir since Osayo died.
Miss Okayo has been forced to take over the business.
She waited for you.
She's only doing this because she hasn't heard from you.
But she told me she'll come back to Tokyo the minute you returned.
- I'll call her. - Don't!
If Okayo has decided to get married let her.
Why?
She loves only you!
She'll get on the first train to get back to you.
What good will it do for her to come back to Tokyo?
She'll just have more heartache.
You don't understand how a woman feels.
She'll suffer any hardship for the man she loves.
She waited for you for over three years!
Okayo had a sister when I first met her
but now the situation has totally changed.
Okayo is the only heiress now.
We ought to just let her continue the Kaga-ya business.
But...
Don't tell her I came back.
I'll never see Okayo again.
Are you sure?
You didn't come back here to see her?
No.
We're not real lovers.
She's been good to me. I'll admit that.
But she was just filling the void left in my heart created by you.
That's all it was.
It won't change that even if she came back now.
She knows all that. Yet she still wants you.
I know how she feels.
A woman can be happy loving like that.
She needs true happiness. Not happiness I can give her.
- Kota... - You too.
I'm glad we parted as platonic lovers.
If you had come with me that day I would've made you unhappy too.
You're strong.
I want you to keep on growing.
A time will come when a woman can be free.
Let me stay here for a few days.
And I want to be left alone.
He's been here waiting for you.
Sorry I'm late.
Thank you for your help the other day.
Okayo called again today. She sounded depressed.
She says you haven't called.
You haven't heard from Kota?
Then call her and tell her that.
I'm getting a little concerned too.
You can use the phone at my place.
She'll feel better if you call.
- You're so nice to other women! - This is serious!
Thank you for all your help.
I just feel sorry for Okayo.
She must be having a tough time of it.
I think I'll go to Sakata.
Oshin's come for Kayo's wedding!
I had no idea you were ill.
It's nothing...
I'm only sad that I can't be at the wedding.
But I have no regrets knowing that Kaga-ya will be in good hands.
Kayo has no real sister to count on so be a good friend to her.
Oshin!
If you should ever see Kota again try and get back together.
I know he hasn't forgotten you.
No... I have no right to see Kota ever again.
I have a request.
Please let me do your hair for the wedding.
I'm not that good at Japanese-style hair
but I want to do a good job for you.
I want to help comfort you.
Thank you Oshin.
On the morning of Kayo's wedding
Oshin did Kayo's hair and she didn't tell her about Kota.
She believed that was best for Kayo and Kaga-ya.
Oshin had chosen Kayo's life for her.
And she prayed she made the right
decision for her as she did her hair.
Thanks Kei.
If Okayo had come back to Tokyo and seen Kota
her life would have been different.
Not just hers... Everybody else's lives too.
You'd better change and go to sleep.
I didn't tell her... I betrayed her!
I should've told her no matter what Kota said.
Then I wouldn't have to live in regret.
It's all my fault...
I ruined Okayo's life!
Kei had never heard his grandmother speak of regrets
or seen her show so much vulnerability.
Kei could also feel the pain Oshin had hidden in her heart.
But he had no way of knowing all the implications
of what Oshin was talking about.
Thanks to Avallac'h XrayMind and y0ssy at D-Addicts.
Translation: UTB Channel