Koto—The Lake of Tears 1966
A breathtaking 1966 romantic drama from director Tomotaka Tasaka, *Koto—The Lake of Tears* immerses viewers in the tranquil yet emotionally charged world of Lake Yogo.
Director: Tomotaka Tasaka
Cast
Yoshiko Sakuma
Saku
Katsuo Nakamura
Ukichi Matsumiya
Minoru Chiaki
Kitao Momose
Michiyo Kogure
Suzuko
Kirin Kiki
Kayo Sugumo
Hisano Yamaoka
Matsue Torii
Kunie Tanaka
Kenkichi Ohara
Junko Miyazono
Teruko
Chiyo Okada
Masuko
Akiko Kazami
Tatsu
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Koto—The Lake of Tears (1966) about?
This 1966 film follows Saku, a gifted young shamisen string maker who moves to Lake Yogo, a place famed for its musical craftsmanship. Her peaceful life takes an unexpected turn when a renowned musician becomes deeply invested in her work and future, sparking a romance that tests her dedication to tradition and her own dreams.
Who directed Koto—The Lake of Tears?
The film was directed by Tomotaka Tasaka, known for his sensitive and atmospheric storytelling in mid-century Japanese cinema.
Who stars in Koto—The Lake of Tears?
The film features Yoshiko Sakuma in the lead role, supported by Katsuo Nakamura, Minoru Chiaki, Michiyo Kogure, and Kirin Kiki in key performances.
Is Koto—The Lake of Tears (1966) worth watching?
As an unrated but deeply atmospheric drama, *Koto—The Lake of Tears* offers a rare blend of romantic tension and cultural authenticity. Fans of classic Japanese films or gentle, character-driven stories will find much to appreciate in its poetic pacing and emotional depth. While not widely rated, its themes and craftsmanship shine through.
How long is Koto—The Lake of Tears?
The film has a runtime of 129 minutes, or just over two hours.
About Koto—The Lake of Tears (1966) — A Romantic Drama of Love and Craftsmanship
A breathtaking 1966 romantic drama from director Tomotaka Tasaka, *Koto—The Lake of Tears* immerses viewers in the tranquil yet emotionally charged world of Lake Yogo. The story follows Saku, a radiant young artisan crafting shamisen strings, whose serene life is disrupted when a celebrated musician takes a profound interest in her. As she navigates the delicate balance between tradition and passion, the film weaves a tender tale of love, sacrifice, and the quiet power of art. Tasaka's gentle direction bathes the narrative in a dreamlike atmosphere, where the shimmering waters of the lake mirror both beauty and melancholy.
With a cast led by Yoshiko Sakuma and Katsuo Nakamura, the film explores themes of destiny and devotion against the backdrop of Japan's cultural heritage. The chemistry between the leads, paired with Minoru Chiaki's nuanced performance, elevates the story into a poignant reflection on the connections that shape our lives. A poised blend of romance and drama, *Koto—The Lake of Tears* invites audiences to lose themselves in its tender storytelling and evocative visuals.
