When Kino hears of a land where travelers are shunned, she decides to visit anyway and experience the people's attitude for herself. To her surprise, however, the inhabitants are extremely friendly and welcoming, and Kino is soon made to feel at home among them. And when she makes friends with Sakura, a girl who reminds Kino of her younger self, Kino begins to wonder if, for once, she should stay longer than her customary three days.