Apprentice geisha Hitomi has been purchased by Arisue and is about to make her debut as a full-fledged geisha. However, on the eve of her first performance, her former lover, Takaya, suddenly appears. Breaking the strict rules of the geisha house, the two give in to their passion. Their affair is quickly discovered by Hitomi's stepmother, Chiaki, and Arisue, who subject Hitomi to the traditional punishments of the pleasure district. As pain and pleasure intertwine, Hitomi pleads, "Mother, Arisue, please forgive me," but her voice grows weaker with each passing moment. The heartbreaking anguish and torment Hitomi endures strike deep into the soul.