Gesshu Temple

Gesshu is a Buddhist convent on the outskirts of Nara to which Satoko Ayakura retreats after her arranged engagement to the son of an aristocratic family collapses. Unable to decide whether to accept Kiyoaki's love or the arranged marriage, Satoko joins the convent and its particular brand of Buddhism. Kioaki follows her with his friend Honda, and is repeatedly rebuffed when he tries to gain permission from the sisters to see his lover. Even his ingratiating friend Honda is unable to penetrate the rigid barriers of the monastery. Meanwhile, Kiyoaki grows ill from his many months of self-deprivation because of his inability to contact Satoko.

Tokyo

As the capitol of Japan and seat of government, Tokyo is the primary setting for the novel and the home of the central characters. The characters are connected to Tokyo by familial, governmental, legal and social ties. Tokyo, in turn...