The story follows a young boy and his little sister as they struggle to survive during World War II in Japan, facing starvation, illness, and the harsh realities of war.

In the aftermath of a World War II bombing, two orphaned children struggle to survive in the Japanese countryside. To Seita and his four year old sister, the helplessness and indifference of their countrymen is even more painful than the enemy raids.

Through desperation, hunger and grief, these children's lives are as heartbreaking and fragile as their spirit and love is inspiring. Grave of the Fireflies is a tale of the true tragedy of war and innocence lost, not only of the abandoned young, but of an entire nation.