[1] Set in a fictional country dynasty reminiscent of early 17th century China, the story follows the strange fate of Ginga, a young girl who volunteers to be the wife of the new emperor.

When she learns of an opportunity to become a concubine of the young new Emperor, with the possibility of getting a regular food supply in the bargain, Ginga convinces her father to let her go.

[3][2] The film had its premier broadcast on March 21, 1990, during the vernal equinox national holiday, and was shown in an unprecedented commercial-free presentation.

For the anime adaptation, the characters' settings were changed and some episodes and descriptions were omitted in consideration of the wide age range of viewers.

[5] Kumo Kaze, as it is sometimes called, is currently licensed in North America by Discotek Media who subsequently released it on DVD and Blu-ray.