Semimaru : PhotoStory

Semimaru, the blind child of the Emperor, is taken by palanquin from the capital to distant Mount Ōsaka.

Semimaru has been abandoned by his father.

The grieving courtier says Semimaru’s father is showing concern about the next life of his son. Semimaru is to become a monk.

In his humble existence, he will have only the one thing from the gorgeous daily life of the palace - a biwa lute.

Semimaru’s sister, Sakagami, has lost her mind and wanders around remote places.

In her disturbed state, she leaves behind the colorful capital of autumn.

In a mirror of water, she is surprised to see a reflection of herself and her hair, which stand upwards.

Sakagami arrives at Mount Ōsaka and hears the sound of a lute. She realizes that in the straw-thatched hut is her brother, Semimaru.

They are happy at the unexpected reunion and comfort each other about their misfortunes.

Nevertheless, they cannot do this indefinitely. In tears, the two part.