The Dancing Girl of Izu

The twenty-year-old student from Tokyo departs for a trip to the Izu Peninsula during the last days of summer holidays, driven by feelings of loneliness and melancholia. He begins his journey as a means to escape his emotional state, seeking solace in travel and new experiences.

While traveling, the student repeatedly crosses paths with a troupe of five musicians: one man and four women. Their journey takes them toward Mount Amagi tunnel, capturing his interest with their presence and actions during the trip.

The student is particularly struck by the youngest woman, Kaoru, who carries a heavy drum and displays a youthful innocence. His fascination leads him to decide to follow the troupe, feeling drawn to her beauty and personality.

After passing through the tunnel, Eikichi, the male leader of the troupe, engages the student in a conversation. He reveals that they come from Ōshima Island and are on a short tour before the cold season begins, providing context for their journey.

The troupe rests overnight in Yugano, where the student learns from Eikichi that Kaoru is his 14-year-old sister, and that the others include Eikichi’s wife Chiyoko, his mother-in-law, and a maid. This revelation deepens his understanding of the group's humble background.

That evening, the musicians perform for local guests at an inn. The student hears Kaoru playing her drum and worries she might be harassed, highlighting her innocence and vulnerability amid the social setting.

The next day, the student witnesses Kaoru coming out of the bathhouse naked and waving at him, which makes him laugh and realize her still-innocent, youthful nature, contrasting her environment with her pure demeanor.

Although the student's planned return to Tokyo is near, he chooses to stay with the troupe for another day. Their companionship offers him comfort and a temporary escape from his melancholic feelings.

During a walk, the student overhears Kaoru and Chiyoko discussing what a kind person he is. This acknowledgment lifts his spirits and helps him forget his worries, appreciating the humble group’s genuine nature.

Eikichi’s mother-in-law invites the student to visit their home during winter holidays, but later forbids Kaoru from accompanying him to the cinema, emphasizing the protective attitude towards her and the social constraints they face.

On the final day, the student boards a boat in Shimoda to return to Tokyo, seen off by Eikichi and mournful Kaoru. Their farewell marks the end of a brief but meaningful encounter that impacted his emotional state.

As he departs, the student begins to cry, feeling both sadness from the separation and a sense of relief. The encounter leaves a lasting impression, symbolizing a moment of emotional release and reflection.