Cherry Blossoms

Trudi Angermeir has long held a dream of traveling to Japan with her husband, Rudi. However, her dreams are shattered when she learns that Rudi is terminally ill, which sets the stage for the couple's emotional journey.

Instead of revealing Rudi's illness, Trudi suggests they visit their youngest son, Karl, in Tokyo. Rudi declines this plan but agrees to visit their daughter and other son in Berlin, showing a compromise in their travel ambitions.

Upon arriving in Berlin, the couple is picked up by their oldest son Klaus, who takes them home. They are greeted by Klaus's wife, Emma, and their children, Celine and Robert, but the atmosphere is tense due to unresolved family issues.

The family reunion quickly reveals underlying resentments, as Klaus and his family reminisce about feeling neglected in comparison to their younger brother. The burden of these emotions creates a strained dynamic during the visit.

The next day, Karolin's girlfriend, Franzi, takes Trudi and Rudi out to explore Berlin's sights, reflecting her fondness for the elderly couple. However, tensions rise again during a visit to Franzi's home with their daughter, pushing Rudi and Trudi to leave.

While trying to purchase S-Bahn tickets, both Trudi and Rudi struggle to navigate the ticketing system, causing Rudi to snap in frustration. This minor hiccup illustrates the challenges they face in a bustling city and their mounting stress.

In an effort to lighten the mood, Trudi suggests a visit to a nearby beach. They spend tranquil days together at a beach resort, enjoying quiet moments along the coastline, a stark contrast to their family visit.

Tragedy strikes when Rudi wakes up to find Trudi has passed away in her sleep. The loss plunges Rudi into deep grief, and the only attendees at her burial are himself and Franzi, highlighting the isolation he feels.

Overcome by sadness, Rudi flies to Tokyo to stay with Karl, but finds himself alone as Karl’s busy life leaves little room for connection. The quiet of the apartment brings haunting memories of Trudi, intensifying his sense of loss.

While exploring Tokyo, Rudi meets a young dancer named Yu in a park. She, an orphan coping with her own grief through Butoh dance, begins to form a deep bond with Rudi, providing him with a semblance of companionship.

Rudi's friendship with Yu causes tension with Karl, who becomes concerned about his father's choices. When Rudi learns Yu is homeless, he invites her to stay with them, prompting a dispute that puts further strain on their family relationship.

Determined to fulfill Trudi's dream, Rudi proposes a trip to Mount Fuji, leaving quietly without Karl's knowledge. They embark on the journey, hopeful for a clear view of the mountain that symbolizes Trudi’s aspirations.

Upon arriving at Mount Fuji, the mountain remains shrouded in clouds, preventing Rudi and Yu from seeing its beauty. They register at a ryokan and spend days waiting for a glimpse, reflecting Rudi’s longing for connection with Trudi.

One clear morning, Rudi wakes to find Mount Fuji visible. In a moment of inspiration, he dons Trudi's kimono and performs a Butoh dance by the lake, cherishing her memory and his love for her.

After the dance, Rudi collapses and passes away. His death brings a sad closure to his journey, leaving behind a heartfelt gift for Yu, which she discovers, reinforcing the connection they shared.

After Rudi's death, Karl and Yu perform a traditional ceremony to honor his ashes. The film concludes with a poignant scene of Yu dancing under the cherry blossoms, wearing Rudi's hat, symbolizing the enduring love between them.