Bob Harris is an American movie star, but his career is drawing to a close. He hit his golden age a while ago, and age has gotten the best of him. Now, he mostly films commercials for an income, and, at the beginning of the movie, he is traveling to Tokyo to film a whiskey advertisement.
On the other hand, viewers are introduced to Charlotte, a young graduate living in Tokyo. Her husband, named John, is a professional photographer, but she feels that he is getting to self-centered for her liking, and her relationship with him is at a serious risk. Bob, too, is experiences difficulties in his marriage.
Bob and Charlotte stay at the same hotel when Charlotte's husband has to travel for his work as a photographer. The two notice each other every day in the lobby and elevator, but never really say anything. One night, when neither are sleepy, they start a conversation, and Charlotte offers to introduce Bob to some of her friends.
The two spend the night together with Charlotte's friends in downtown Tokyo, and they feel a romantic attraction for one another. Bob, seemingly inconsiderate, meets with one of the female bartenders the next night. Charlotte gets word of this, and is mad at Bob.
The hotel's fire alarm goes off, and no one knows for sure if there is a real fire or not. Outside, Bob and Charlotte tell each other that they love one another, and Charlotte quickly forgives Bob about her anger.
Time quickly passes, and now it is time for Bob to return to the States. He and Charlotte kiss each other goodbye, and they bid a forlorn farewell to one another.
