Aya adapts Hyakken Uchida’s eponymous short story in which characters wonder whether they are alive or dead, as the reality of their existence is swept from under their feet.

Hanaoka loves Mirei, his classmate at a culinary school he attends, but expressing that feeling in words is hard to do. When the two are given an assignment to make Horse Mackerel Nanbanzuke, an offbeat love adventure ensues as Hanaoka is blindfolded by Mirei and led across town on a search for ingredients and, hopefully, understanding and connection.

A young, temperamental Tokyo beautician struggles to navigate her relationships with lovers, friends, and family.