Shining Boy and Little Randy

A Japanese boy is smitten and finally persuades his mother to give him permission to travel to northern Thailand in order to become an elephant trainer. He would be the first Japanese to become one should he succeed. He develops a bond with the giant creatures and soon enough is back in Japan where he does more for the animals. He also meets his girlfriend. —aghaemi Tetsumu, an introverted youth, realizes he has a natural ability of communicating with elephants. This prompts him to leave for Chiang Mai in Thailand to become Japan's first elephant trainer. Having found his place in the world, Tetsumu develops into a strong, confident young man. He returns to Japan with the dream of building a green "paradise" for his ivory-tusked friends. Meanwhile, he starts a career as an elephant trainer for touring shows. He meets Emi, a woman seven years his senior and falls in love.