The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes

In the idyllic countryside, where time seems to pass at a leisurely pace, a tranquil summer lies ahead for the young inhabitants. However, beneath the surface of this serene landscape, there lies a mysterious tunnel known as Urashima, which supposedly harbors an enticing promise: grant the deepest desires of those who dare to enter it. But as the Japanese saying goes, "be careful what you wish for," because every advantageous treasure demands an unforgiving payment in return. Kaoru Tohno, a quiet and seemingly enigmatic youth, appears to have a history of trauma that still lingers within him like an open wound. His somber demeanor hints at the turmoil he has endured, but it is his mysterious past that continues to shape the person he has become. In stark contrast, Anzu Hanashiro is a vibrant young girl who longs to embody the ideals of her aspirations. Her sunny disposition often finds itself caught between her naive worldview and the harsh realities that life brings. One day, as the season transitions from spring to summer, Anzu and Kaoru inexplicably find themselves drawn to each other. United by curiosity and a sense of adventure, they form an unlikely bond as they endeavor to unravel the enigma that is the Urashima Tunnel. While initially driven by self-interest, their ultimate goal begins to revolve around the desire to uncover the truth and transform the mysteries of the tunnel into tangible reality. Together, they tread the winding paths, narrow roads, and verdant countryside in search of the elusive tunnel. As they wander through the lush landscape, every sunset and every distant memory serves as a poignant reminder of how time is fleeting, and their collective experiences embody this notion of a confined timeline. The village where they live seems a world away from the complexities that reside within each of their souls. The tranquility that encapsulates their surroundings provides a formidable contrast to the turbulent landscapes they both inhabit. As their stories begin to intertwine, it becomes increasingly clear that the passage of time is one they are powerless to escape; its end will soon bring an irreversible term. Anzu's innocence and spirit serve as a balancing counterpoint to Kaoru's somber demeanor, allowing the audience to witness the two protagonists, their divergent life paths intersecting as their pursuit of the Urashima Tunnel becomes ever more fevered. Her strong desire to explore life's opportunities frequently puts her at odds with reality. However, even though her well-intentioned persona seems delicate and ephemeral, she remains eternally passionate for the pursuit of perfection, convinced that the truth surrounding the mysterious tunnel would empower her. Kaoru's motivations for exploring the tunnel appear to be rooted in a longing to resolve the emotional turmoil of his traumatic past. His struggle with confronting what has occurred resonates within him like a deeply ingrained sorrow. On the surface, the bond he shares with Anzu may be rooted in reason or chance but ultimately, their walk reveals that an almost palpable chemistry has blossomed, forged through their shared experiences. Through the subtle nuances and captivating stories of Anzu and Kaoru, "The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes" introduces viewers to the gripping intricacies of rural Japan during the sweltering summer heat, crafting an enthralling atmosphere rooted in memories and passion. This poignant exploration and the protagonists' unbreakable bond bring a gentle yet powerful melancholy as we watch the elusive Urashima Tunnel, an illusion that tempts with impossible promises yet taunts with an uncertain future, guiding the plot from nostalgia and optimism to resolution and a bittersweet farewell.