Otomatsu is a small-town stationmaster in northern Japan. He is honest, loyal, and never misses work -- not even when his wife and daughter lie sick and dying. Now nearing retirement and alone, Otomatsu will soon lose his job since the railroad has become unprofitable and will be closed down. Otomatsu will remain loyal until the end, but harbors deep resentment for what he has sacrificed only to be put out of work with no compensation. Helpless and despondent he waits on the platform, waiting for the end -- until he sees a little girl with a familiar doll who instills a new sense of hope and duty in his life.