From Up on Poppy Hill

Umi Matsuzaki, a 16-year-old high school student, begins her day by raising a set of signal flags at Coquelicot Manor. This act is not just a routine but a heartfelt message conveying her prayers for safe voyages for those at sea.

One day, Umi's flags catch the attention of Shun Kazama, a talented poet who attends Konan Academy. Inspired by the flags, he writes a poem that gets published in the school's newspaper, showcasing the power of Umi's heartfelt gesture.

Umi initially misjudges Shun as a daredevil when he performs a stunt at the Latin Quarter. Encouraged by her sister, she visits the location and discovers Shun's involvement in the school's newspaper, sparking a collaborative spirit among students to renovate the historic building.

During a heartfelt moment at Coquelicot Manor, Umi shares a photograph of her late father with Shun, only to discover he is related to her. This shocking revelation hints that Umi and Shun share familial bonds that complicate their growing feelings for each other.

As Umi leads the initiative to renovate the Latin Quarter, the Kanagawa Prefectural Board of Education decides to demolish the building. This spurs Umi, Shun, and Shirō to take action and travel to Tokyo to present their case against the demolition.

Umi, Shun, and Shirō make a daring trip to Tokyo amid the preparations for the 1964 Summer Olympics, hoping to meet Tokumaru, the chairman of the education board. Their determination leads them to successfully convince him to inspect the Latin Quarter.

On the return journey from Tokyo, Umi bravely admits her feelings for Shun, who reciprocates despite knowing they may be siblings. This moment represents the emotional climax of their relationship, caught between love and familial obligations.

When Umi's mother, Ryoko, returns from the United States, she unveils tragic truths about Shun's heritage. It is revealed that Shun’s biological father was Yūichirō, Umi's father, complicating their relationship further.

After visiting the Latin Quarter, Tokumaru is moved by the students' dedication and decides to cancel the demolition order. This victory signifies a triumph not just for the preservation of the building, but for Umi and Shun's futures.

Umi and Shun meet Yoshio Onodera, the last surviving member from the photograph of the three naval men. He reassures them that they are not biologically related, allowing them to begin to envision a future together, free from the weight of their shared past.

With their familial ties clarified by Yoshio, Umi reflects on her daily ritual of raising the signal flags. This act now symbolizes deeper meanings, connecting her to not just her father, but to her newfound relationships and memories.