Takao is a student living in Tokyo with his mother and older brother, though he often finds himself feeling disconnected from his home life. His mother is frequently absent, and his older brother is preoccupied with his own life. Takao’s love for shoemaking stems from a childhood fascination with craftsmanship, and he dreams of designing and making shoes professionally. Despite his young age, he dedicates much of his time to studying shoemaking techniques.

On rainy mornings, he skips school to visit Shinjuku Gyoen, a large park in Tokyo, where he sketches shoe designs in solitude. It is there that he encounters Yukari Yukino, a mysterious woman who shares his habit of seeking refuge in the park on rainy days. Their meetings become a quiet source of comfort for both, though Takao remains unaware of the difficulties Yukari is facing in her own life.

Takao is a slender teenage boy with short dark brown hair and brown eyes. He typically wears his school uniform, consisting of a white dress shirt, dark pants, and a dark-colored blazer. When working on his shoemaking, he is often seen wearing casual clothes, including a simple T-shirt and jeans. His most defining characteristic is the sketchbook he carries, filled with intricate designs of shoes he hopes to craft.

Takao is introspective, determined, and somewhat reserved. Unlike many of his peers, he is deeply passionate about his craft and is willing to sacrifice conventional school activities to pursue his dream. His quiet nature sometimes makes him seem distant, but he is capable of strong emotions, as seen in his growing attachment to Yukari.

Despite his dedication, he struggles with self-doubt, questioning whether his ambitions are realistic. He initially views adulthood with a mix of admiration and apprehension, believing that growing up equates to gaining clarity and confidence. However, his relationship with Yukari teaches him that adults, too, face uncertainty and loneliness.

• Encounter with Yukari Yukino
  Takao meets Yukari on a rainy morning in Shinjuku Gyoen, where she recites a tanka poem before leaving. This brief encounter intrigues him, and he continues to visit the park on rainy days, hoping to see her again. As they begin to talk, Takao confides in her about his dream of becoming a shoemaker, even measuring her feet in a symbolic gesture of trust.

• Developing a Connection
  Their meetings become a regular occurrence, with Takao finding comfort in Yukari’s presence. She encourages him in his aspirations, while he, in turn, provides her with a sense of solace. Unbeknownst to him, Yukari is a teacher at his school who has been struggling with emotional distress due to workplace harassment.

• Conflict and Realization
  When the rainy season ends, Takao is forced to confront reality. He eventually learns about Yukari’s true identity and the difficulties she has faced. In a moment of emotional vulnerability, he confesses his feelings for her, only to be gently rejected. Heartbroken but determined, Takao decides to move forward, channeling his emotions into his dream of becoming a shoemaker.

• Resolution
  As the film concludes, Takao focuses on his craft, working diligently toward his goal. Though he and Yukari part ways, their relationship leaves a lasting impact on both, shaping their individual growth.