A pair of senior citizens set out from their quiet fishing village on a trip to Tokyo to see their children and grandchildren. They carry with them a modest meal and an incredibly organized suitcase as they begin their train ride toward the city. Upon arrival, they find that while they are received pleasantly enough, their son, "Koichi" (Sô Yamamura), who is a pediatrician, and his cosmetologist sister, "Shige" (Haruko Sugimura), are preoccupied with their own lives and have limited time for their parents. This film portrays how the elderly couple is passed around, seemingly without malice but certainly without much attention, from one place to another—first to a spa full of young people, then under the care of their widowed daughter-in-law "Noriko" (Setsuko Hara), who attempts to provide some comfort and amusement. The film unfolds at a deliberate pace. The acting by the older pair is wonderful to witness, particularly after he, “Shukichi” (Chishû Ryû), has enjoyed some sake with his companions; and she, “Tomi” (Chieko Higashiyama), shines as the patient, gentle wife whose quiet strength is both amusing and admirable. Events culminate in a rather melancholy yet touching scene, featuring a brief appearance by their other son, "Keiso" (Shirô Ôsaka), leading to an ending that feels somber but somehow appropriate. It’s a thoughtful depiction of shifting family relationships, or perhaps changing values, and the way people can be overlooked.

Source on TMDB