Child of Kamiari Month

The events unfold in contemporary Japan, anchored by the October Kannazuki harvest festival legend. The narrative spans a gloomy marathon day, typhoon season, and a spring ending, tracing a year in Kanna’s life as she learns to cope with loss and rediscover her running passion.

The story is rooted in Tokyo’s Sumida Ward with Kanna visiting Ushijima Shrine. Its journey expands across Japan as she travels to Izumo-taisha in Shimane, to Suwa-taisha near Lake Suwa in Nagano, and to Miho Shrine in Matsue, Shimane, weaving a path through sacred sites. The shrines and landscapes underpin a mythic quest that blends daily life with festival atmosphere during Kannazuki.

🏃‍♀️ Running

Running is more than a sport for Kanna: it links her to her late mother’s memory and becomes a path to healing and courage. The quest demands speed and endurance, mirroring her internal process of recovery from grief. Through running, she discovers a sense of purpose that ties personal growth to a larger, mythic journey across sacred sites.

💔 Grief

Yayoi’s death casts a long shadow over Kanna, shaping her self-doubt and guilt. The bracelet and memories trigger painful reflection, yet also remind her of love and resilience. The film uses grief to explore forgiveness, memory, and the power to move forward.

🗺️ Journey & Destiny

Kanna’s pilgrimage is a test of character and duty, linking the human world with the divine. She learns of a potential role as Idaten and the costs of legacy. Encounters with gods and mythical beings reveal that true destiny is forged through perseverance, honesty, and courage.