Ah...
Hm?
Wow!
♪ Anything you need, the Hokkyoku Department Store has it all.
♪ If it's red, you'll find it at Hokkyoku Department Store.
♪ Beyond service, it's true hospitality, with smiles everywhere.
♪ Everyone gathers at this wonderful department store.
Whoa!
Whoa, whoa!
Oh.... I’m so sorry!
Welcome!
Is there anything I can assist you with?
Who are you, nice lady?
Me?
I’m the concierge.
Welcome to Hokkyoku Department Store!
My name is Akino, and starting today, I’ll be working here, in this department store
where all kinds of animals come as customers.
Customers with wings,
customers with hooves,
small customers,
big customers… and even some who are quite unusual.
Ouch!
Welcome!
Is there anything I can assist you with?
Just looking around.
My apologies.
Move it!
A-Apologies!
Let me through!
- I’m so sorry— - Out of the way!
- Move it! - Sorr—
I-I’m so sorry, Penguin customer!
Are you alright?
Wh-what do I do? Is he breathing?
I need to get a doctor right away!
This is the worst.
M-My apologies…
You lost that lovely smile of yours.
Huh?
Did you know?
Smiles were invented by the most tormented animals on Earth.
I see...
Now then, young lady, don’t hold back. Could you give my bottom a good push, with both hands?
Huh? Your bottom?
Yes.
My bottom. A good push.
A good push on the bottom?
Go on, give it a good push!
Oh! Yes!
My name is Akino.
I look forward to working with you!
Likewise, I'm Mori, the concierge. Nice to meet you.
Welcome to Hokkyoku Department Store!
Hmm?
Ah... T-Thank you very much in advance!
Excuse me.
- Huh? - The post office,
could you tell me how to get there?
Dear customer, the path to the post office involves a steep incline.
Could I ask you to wait a moment?
Huh? Yes...
Please excuse me.
What graceful movement…
Smile, smile!
You had this unmistakable "I messed up" look on your face as you walked around.
Not good! We’re on the sales floor here.
You saw that?
You never know where Mr. Todo might be watching from, so stay alert.
You don’t want to get fired during your trial period.
I’m Iwase. Nice to meet you.
Ah—yes! Nice to meet yo-!
Customer, I can store your belongings in a locker for you.
Oh, could you do that for me?
You're a lifesaver! As a cheetah, I have osteoporosis all over.
Me too!
Welcome. Customer?
Hm?
Your belongings—shall I store them for you?
My belongings?
Yes! The bag on your back. I can store it in a locker.
This? My belongings?
Huh?
You’re telling me to shove my kids in a locker?!
I...I deeply apologize for the misunderstanding,
dear opossum customer!
Phew. At least nobody saw that…
- I saw it. - Ah!
T-Todo?! Where did you come from?
As the floor manager, I have to check on the new concierges
to make sure they're treating our customers properly.
It seems you’re struggling, aren’t you?
Well, Mr. Todo…
It’s hard to know when to speak to customers.
Sometimes they don’t seem to need any help…
I’m just not as good as the others yet.
You can tell just by looking at their eyes.
Their eyes?
Is that...
Mr. Todo? Mr. Todo, where did you go?
How kind of you to give her a hint, Mr. Todo.
Mr. Eruru.
You can tell just by looking at their eyes…
I see.
Come on, let’s get off here.
Ow!
I cant tell which customers want help and which don't!
This way, dear.
Moooom, my foot!
Just by looking at their eyes…
Looking into their eyes…
Looking... into their eyes…
The customers’ gaze.
- Welcome! - Hm?
Is there anything I can assist you with,
dear ferret customer?
You're...
- You’re… a concierge- - Yes!
Ms... Concierge?
I need some good advice!
See that elderly owl couple over there?
Yes.
The gentleman is the president of an important client company,
and I brought him here today to entertain him.
They seem to be enjoying themselves, which is good.
It’s not good, actually.
Oh? How so?
President, that item over there
is a gift from us.
No, no, that’s not necessary.
Please wrap this up for me.
Thank you very much.
Right this way.
Oh, thanks to you,
I've been able to find just what I needed.
Thank you. Hooo-hoo-hoo-hoo!
I see...
So, since he’s buying everything himself,
you’re not really able to host him.
Entertaining wealthy clients is tough…
Ms. Concierge, any clever ideas?
Hmm...
The customer is already quite satisfied...
What more can I do...?
If you look into their eyes, you’ll know!
The customer’s gaze…
Just observe!
Oh my, that wallet is lovely, too!
Why don’t you just get both?
Oh? No, no, I couldn’t possibly buy both!
President…
The ferret customer wants to entertain the president…
Today, I just want to make my wife happy.
The president wants to please his wife...
And his wife…
How many times do I have to tell you?
Oh, it’s so hard to choose—they’re both so lovely.
They’re both lovely...
Excuse me, who are you?
Hey, hey, hey, hey! Too close, too close, too close!
- What are you doing? - Huh?
M-My apologies!
Such a strange young woman.
I’ve made my decision. Let’s go!
Alright then! Clerk, I’ll take this one!
Hooo-hoo-hoo-hoo!
Oh!
Akino!
M-Mr. Todo...
What on earth are you doing?
That customer is a V.I.A.— be extra careful not to offend them.
V.I.A...?
VERY
VERY IMPORTANT
VERY IMPORTANT ANIMAL!!!
An endangered species customer!
Such reckless service!
Now, now, Mr. Todo.
Yes, their first meeting was a bit startling, but…
Not only did she step on Eruru’s back,
she even upset a penguin!
- Unbelievable... the V.I.A., of all things... - Hm?
Mr. Todo,
I actually rather like our new hire, Akino.
And look, the customer seems to be quite pleased now.
Akino!
A customer who visited earlier asked to see you again.
Oh! The ferret customer!
Yes. I just came back from escorting the couple to the airport.
How did it go?
Just as you advised,
I gave the item that the lady had hesitated to buy last time
to her, as a present.
Oh my!
Hooo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo!
She was absolutely delighted!
Seeing her so happy put the president in a great mood as well.
He’s decided to give us his next business deal!
That’s wonderful!
It’s all thanks to you, Ms. Concierge.
Oh no, not at all!
After all, many female customers find themselves
lingering over the item they didn’t purchase, even after they’ve bought something else.
I’ll definitely keep coming to Hokkyoku Department Store from now on.
Yes! Thank you very much!
Thank you, Ms. Concierge.
We look forward to your next visit.
Not bad for your first day!
I did make a lot of mistakes, though…
What matters most is that the customer seemed pleased.
- Yes! - But...
Don’t get ahead of yourself!
You’re still too careless!
He’s right. You’d better be careful!
Mr. Todo’s always watching.
Good work today.
- Oh... - Ms. Concierge.
He said "Thank you, Ms. Concierge!"
Look, at those tusks over there.
Our ancestors, who bravely spread their feathers,
faced those tusks for thousands of years.
With feathers this flashy, we're bound to be targeted.
Hide these beautiful feathers? Really?
Actually, I'd rather hide you.
Oh, my!
Excuse me, dear customers!
W-While we appreciate your affectionate displays,
please refrain from courting behavior within the store, as it can be quite disruptive!
Disruptive?
Huh? Oh, well, you see-
My apologies, dear customer! While we deeply appreciate your beauty,
some nocturnal guests with sensitive eyes are present as well, so please,
if you could tone down the brightness of your tail feathers.
We thank you for your understanding!
Such a dull department store.
Absolutely.
We appreciate your understanding.
Please be cautious when approaching customers.
If they feel disturbed, they may never return.
I'll be careful...
It’s been years since I last saw my father,
so I thought I’d bring him a gift.
Understood. In that case...
Could you tell me a bit more about your father?
Right this way.
Since you mentioned he likes old-fashioned items,
how about a fountain pen?
He could record his thoughts with it.
Ooh, that's a great idea!
Thank you.
For a young lady...
with beautiful long hair...
Hmm... Oh!
How about a brush?
Oh-ho. A brush, you say?
We have some that will leave your hair nice and glossy.
Hold on just a moment...
Let me jot this down...
You’re using such a lovely fountain pen!
Oh, it’s got that classic charm, you know?
Lately, I’ve been making a point of jotting things down in this notebook. Huh?
Oh no, my watch got buried in my fur...
It's about 5 PM right now.
Ah, thank you.
I’ve reserved a nearby restaurant
since it’s been so long since I’ve seen my daughter.
She’s an actress, you see.
Oh my, an actress, is she?
Ha, ha! Would you like to see a photo?
May I?
It’s a bit old, but...
Here she is!
Oh, she’s very beautiful!
Hm...?
E-Excuse me for a second!
Huh?
Hm..?
Huh?
Huuuh!?
We’ll prepare this for you then.
Yes, thank you.
We have three colors of ribbon available.
- Is that so...? - Excuse me, ma'am!
Pardon me, but...
perhaps a pocket watch would be more suitable than a fountain pen?
Huh?
Since your father enjoys classic items,
while the fountain pen is indeed lovely,
this pocket watch...
is crafted by skilled artisans,
and is one of our department store’s pride items.
Its design pairs well with traditional attire, so I’m sure your father will appreciate it, saying, “Oh, a pocket watch!”
Wouldn't you agree that this would be more to his liking?
I-If you recommend it that highly...
T-Thank you very much!
Hmm? Oh, I quite like it!
Um, did you cut your hair?
Yes, for my next movie role.
Wait... do you know who I am?
Um, you’re that actress...
Yes, but this movie hasn't been publicly announced yet.
So...
keep it a secret, okay?
Ah! My sincerest apologies!
I assure you, my lips are sealed!
Please excuse me.
We’ll prepare this item for you then.
Alright.
We have three colors of ribbon available.
- Oh... - Excuse me, sir!
Would you consider a stole instead of a brush?
- A stole...? - Even in the summer,
air conditioning can be chilly, and it provides sun protection as well.
Plus, depending on how it's styled, it can add a lot of versatility to your look!
like this, or like this, or maybe like this.
I'm sure the recipient will say, “Oh, I love it!”
Phew... thank goodness...
Akino.
Ah, Mr. Todo! Wah!
Do you realize what was wrong with your service just now?
Wrong? I only wanted to prevent the customers
from ending up with gifts they didn't actually want.
That's not the issue.
- The notes! - Notes? Oh—
Do you mean these?
Sea mink fur fetches for a very high price.
There may be people out there
who’d try to sell it for money.
The customer's personal matters...
Never pry into them unnecessarily!
Yes! I’m very sorry!
Other than that... you did pretty well.
Huh?
…Did I just get praised?
BOO!
M-Mr. Todo...
Please don't startle me like that!
Oh no!
Whoa! Excuse me!
If they meet now...
It'll ruin the surprise!
Ah!
Not good! I’m not going to make it in time!
Oh!
Can such beautiful feathers really be hidden?
I’d rather hide you instead-
Excuse me, dear peacock customers!
Hm?
Please refrain from courting behavior within the store
as it can be quite disruptive!
Disruptive?
Dear customers!
Ms. Concierge...
love knows no time or place, does it?
Exactly! Perfectly timed, you could say.
But there are nocturnal guests with sensitive eyes,
so I sincerely ask of you...
could you tone down the brightness of your tail feathers?
Such a dull department store.
Absolutely.
Thank you... for your understanding.
Ms. Concierge.
I’ve decided on this for my gift.
Oh, it’s absolutely wonderful!
Do you think Papa will like it?
Yes, I’m sure he’ll love it!
- Ah! - Oh!
To think you used a customer as a cover like that!
Mr. Todo, I have a question for you.
Which do you think survives:
the strong, or the wise?
Who survives...?
Survival favors those who adapt and change with their environment.
Correct.
- But... - But!?
"Survival of the fittest"...
can't explain evolution that works against survival--
like the peacock's beautiful feathers
which make it easy prey.
Evolution is complex, you know.
I see...
So, how's Akino doing?
I hope she’ll quickly adapt to her workplace
and, indeed, survive here.
Adapt… or maybe…
Or maybe...?
Sorry to keep you waiting.
Here’s your Koshihikari rice, made into a risotto with saffron and seaweed butter,
Koshihikari, meaning “Light of Koshi” (named after the historic Koshi Province), was developed in 1956 and has been Japan's most widely grown rice cultivar for over 35 years.
sprinkled with flower vegetable couscous, pimentos, and…
My apologies...
Pimentos and chickpea ju...
Ju...
Adorned with pimentos and chickpea jus.
Thank you, Head Server. I'm so sorry.
The menu should flow smoothly, without any stumbles.
Understood.
So, what do you think of our main dining area?
I admire the servers’ attention to detail.
They made me feel like I need to straighten up and improve myself.
If it benefits your work as a concierge, even just a little...
that's precisely what this training is meant for.
Actually, I had an idea--
what if each table had a call bell?
It might be convenient for customers.
Like the concierge desk?
Right now, the main course is being prepared.
One person cooks the soy meat, another finishes the sauce,
another sautés the vegetables,
and the head chef over there checks it all.
Hey! What’s the head server doing, wandering around as if he has free time?
The soy meat, the vegetables, the sauce--
all need to be ready at the right time to serve the customer perfectly.
We work as a team to create...
the best possible dish.
In this restaurant, it’s all about teamwork.
Teamwork... huh?
- You’re very skilled. - Whoa!
Oh! I’m so sorry!
I must be in the way.
Not at all! You’re not a bother at all.
Are you a painter?
Oh, no! I’m just an apprentice pastry chef.
U-Um... if you don’t mind...
Here, please take this.
Oh, how adorable! Really, I can keep this?
- Yes. - Thank you so much.
I’m a huge fan of Mr. Woolly!
Mr. Wooly?
What?
The genius sculptor, Woolly the Mammoth!
Isn’t this sculpture one of his pieces?
Oh, I had no idea. My deepest apologies.
Look at the beauty of these curves.
It truly is a beautiful sculpture—
Oh, I’m so sorry! Mr. Penguin!
Are you alright?
For the guest to be the one teaching you a lesson...
- You've still got a long way to go. - Huh?
Can you see it?
Two beings, the last ones left in the world,
confirming their one remaining love, in both sadness and beauty.
Mr. Penguin...
Are you a poet, by any chance?
Couldn’t you call it… romantic?
Now then...
never mind that—help me out, would you?
Oh, um… would you like some food—
Come on, give me a good push!
What was he doing here...?
Akino.
The Japanese wolf at table 15...
how does he look to you?
Hmm… he has an uneasy expression, as if...
"Ugh, my food’s taking forever!" He's getting impatient.
Non, non!
Look at what he’s holding in both hands.
Oh! A ring box.
Exactly. In other words...
He’s been stood up by his date on a very important night, and he’s devastated.
That's the correct answer.
I see...
You mentioned earlier that it would be
convenient to have call bells on the tables,
but if we had them,
the waitstaff would only look toward the customers when the bell rings.
His wine has been sitting untouched for thirty minutes now.
Akino, offer a comforting word to our Japanese wolf friend on pins and needles.
Huh?
Gently acknowledge his heartbreak, as kindly as possible...
but without drawing attention from other customers!
You want ME to do that?
Lost opportunities often seem bigger than they actually were...
What?
Tomorrow is another day...
and no rain lasts forever. Every night ends in sunrise!
Um… what are you talking about?
My sincerest apologies!
Ah, so you thought I got stood up… how embarrassing.
I'm so sorry!
No, it’s alright.
Actually… you might not be entirely wrong.
Huh?
The truth is, next week...
I’m planning to give her an engagement ring here at this restaurant.
Today, I was just scouting the place.
Oh, how wonderful!
But...
I always second-guess myself.
She’s such a rare beauty, way out of my league.
I sometimes think she’s with me
simply because there aren't any other Japanese wolves around.
That's not...
I thought this restaurant might give me the courage to propose,
but now I'm being mistaken for someone who's been dumped...
Maybe I’ll mess up again this time, too.
Sir...
Please leave it to us!
Huh?
We’ll do absolutely everything we can...
to make sure you'll be able to give her that ring!
What?
Hmm? What’s going on?
Did something happen during restaurant training?
I... accidentally made a promise...
I shouldn’t have said, “Absolutely!”
It just slipped out.
Helping someone with a proposal—someone like me…
There is no such thing as "no" in the concierge’s dictionary!
Words like "can’t," "don’t know," and "impossible" are forbidden!
We must never disappoint our customers’ expectations!
Yes!
Mr. Maruki, it's been a while!
How have you been since retirement?
Well, at home I’ve mostly been, let’s say...
Ms. Mori, who is that?
That’s Mr. Maruki, a veteran concierge.
He’s retired now,
but he comes back to help whenever we’re short-staffed.
Is there a lovely café nearby?
One moment, please.
I have three options in mind.
Oh my!
- Impressive as always, Maruki! - So dependable!
Huh? All three places have relocated?
- Haha! Oh, Maruki! - Um… is he going to be alright?
He’s a bit all over the place,
but we can’t help loving him.
- No, I’m terribly sorry! - A customer...?
I’m looking for this particular fragrance.
It seems the scent has mostly faded by now.
This bookmark was scented
when I put it in this book two months ago.
I’m afraid I can’t tell exactly.
But if you say it was scented,
perhaps it was longer ago than you remember.
Would you like to try finding that scent based on your memory?
My memory?
Between these two, which smells the closest?
Maybe this one.
It could be a citrusy scent.
Then, how about this one?
Ah, the previous scent is still lingering…
My apologies. Let’s reset your sense of smell.
There are so many, it’s hard to tell the difference.
Don’t give up so easily!
Try smelling it through your right nostril.
Huh?
Your right nostril is connected to your right brain, so it might make it easier to detect the scent.
If it’s citrusy...
the last note of it should linger around here.
What’s going on?
He’s searching for a fragrance, you see.
What kind of scent is it?
Do you know this scent?
Do you mind if I smell it too?
- Me too! - Yes, I’d like to smell it as well.
Everyone...
Oh? I can still faintly smell it.
As expected from Mrs. Bear— such a keen sense of smell!
Hm? This is...!
There's no mistake—this is definitely "Adieu Prudence" by Marqueur!
- Oh, I remember that scent! - It was quite popular.
I'm very sorry, but...
"Adieu Prudence" was
discontinued several years ago!
Sir, perhaps you could consider
another gift for your mother?
- For example... - Another gift won't cut it!
Huh?
I… can’t get married without it.
Pardon?
I...
Without that perfume, I can’t get married!
Married?
Teza, the most popular lion in school,
gave me a condition:
if I bring her the scent from this bookmark,
she'll marry me.
But...
If I can’t get it…
Who-o-o-o-a! Sir!
Sir! Please give me a little time!
I will find that perfume, no matter what!
No matter what!
There I go, making promises again…
“There is no "no" in the concierge’s dictionary!”
…or so they say… but… hmm…
Huh? What’s taking so long?
- That always happens with this elevator. - Huh?
When I get on, it always slows down.
But don’t worry.
We’ll get there eventually.
Excuse me… Are you Woolly the Mammoth, the sculptor?
Yes, I’m here for a meeting about the Christmas exhibition.
Oh, your sculpture at the restaurant entrance
is truly beautiful!
The way it captures the sadness and beauty of two beings
left alone at the world’s end, clinging to their last love.
Thank you.
- Are you… worrying about something? - What?
You kept sighing, "Hmm… ahhh…"
Oh, yes...
I was thinking about a customer’s situation.
I see.
So, what kind of customer?
Um, he...
wants to propose to a woman he loves,
but lacks the confidence.
I want to help him with it.
Everyone struggles with confidence, you know.
I’ve always struggled with words.
That’s why, for my wife…
You hid your proposal inside an ice sculpture?
How romantic!
It was the best I could do.
That's lovely!
Thank you very much, Mr. Woolly!
Everyone, please,
I’m counting on your teamwork!
I need your cooperation!
Well, if you’ve already made a promise, there’s no turning back.
Let’s all work together to make this happen!
This is all your fault in the first place!
So, what’s the plan?
Chef!
Tell us your plan; it’s for the V.I.A, after all.
Alright!
Ice!
What a fancy place.
Ah... yeah...
And that’s a beautiful ice carving.
It’s no Woolly masterpiece,
but it’s quite nice, isn’t it?
Impressive, Chef!
So, what is it? You said you wanted to talk about something important?
Ah, um...
Yes, but let’s enjoy the meal first.
They’re seated.
Everything is on schedule, Head Server.
Good, then let’s begin.
It's dinner time!
Sorry to keep you waiting.
Here we have a Koshihikari saffron risotto with seaweed butter,
topped with flower vegetable couscous,
and finished with pimento and chickpea jus.
It looks delicious!
Yes, it does.
I actually said it!
The pimento and chickpea jus
really enhanced the flavor, didn’t it?
Oh no, he drank the finger bowl!
Not good...
This water has a faint hint of lemon.
Oh!
It really does!
She’s a wonderful girlfriend.
Alright.
She’s finished the dessert.
It’s time.
Pardon me.
How was the course?
It was absolutely delicious.
I’m so glad to hear that. If you'd like...
Would you care for some tea?
Oh, what a lovely scent... Jasmine, isn't it?
Excuse me...
- This takes me back. - Huh?
When I first met you,
the little white jasmine flowers were in bloom, remember?
You remembered?
Of course!
Every year around this time,
I think about how lucky I am to have met you.
Will you...
The timing of the melting ice,
causing the ring to drop right as the customer finished their meal...
a perfect team effort from the kitchen and staff.
Now...
What about your other promise?
Sir...
- I deeply apologize! - Huh?
I couldn’t find the perfume I promised.
I’m truly sorry for not meeting your expectations.
However, we do have
an alternative gift we’d like to suggest—
No, it’s alright.
I was asking for too much. I'm sorry for the trouble.
Sir!
Ta-da!
With a quick flourish, out came a single coin.
Poof!
Mr. Maruki?
Oh? Sir, there’s something on your shoulder.
Here you go!
That bottle...!
It’s the scent of that perfume!
Concierge magic!
Somehow, he tracked down that rare fragrance from a hidden corner of the world,
presenting it like a magic trick!
An impressive surprise, thanks to years of trust built with the ladies.
Please, take good care of it.
This may be the very last bottle.
Once it runs out...
even magic won’t be able to make it reappear.
Thank you!
Ms. Concierge…
Thank you!
The “Double Proposal Plan” was a success.
It only worked because everyone had to step in to clean up the rookie’s bold promise.
But it was because Akino took action that we noticed the customers’ wishes.
It was teamwork at its best.
Interfering with the love lives of extinct species, huh?
Trying to play creator with such… “artificial breeding”?
Mr. Tokiwa.
I have significant reservations about officially hiring that
concierge-in-training.
- The restructuring officer? - That's right!
To increase competition among employees,
they quietly introduced a system
where he patrols the store,
finding those with inefficient work habits…
Does that mean... they're getting fired?
Akino, you haven't even been officially hired yet.
Oh no!
Just kidding, just kidding!
Excuse me, Ms. Concierge!
How do you intend to handle this?
I was in line before anyone else, yet when I stepped out of the elevator, I ended up at the back!
I deeply apologize for the inconvenience.
It appears our system for guiding the waiting line was insufficient.
And I want that plant
growing between those rocks.
I’m very sorry, dear customer,
but the water feature here is actually a hologram projection…
However,
since the items shown in this display might exist somewhere,
I’ll make an inquiry right away.
See? Akino is growing.
She doesn’t make mistakes so easily anymore.
Mr. Todo, it seems you’re becoming quite fond of Akino.
What are you implying? I am merely...
as a floor manager, I’m just doing my duty to train this new concierg-
Huh?
Excuse me, Ms. Concierge.
I’m looking for a party dress.
Our ladies' wear department is on the third and fourth floors.
If you head straight,
you’ll find an elevator...
Right this way, please.
Thank you for escorting me.
Well then, please enjoy your shopping.
Ms. Concierge...
Would you help me pick out an outfit?
You look wonderful!
You're so beautiful!
It looks absolutely perfect on you.
Oh, thank you, dear.
N-Not at all!
I tend to get nervous, you see.
When I’m around the sales staff, I can never say what I truly think.
Having you here has been a huge help.
It really does suit you.
Really? Then I’ll take this one.
Oh, I’ve changed my mind.
Could you please cancel everything else?
What?
Once I decided on this necklace,
I knew the white dress was the only choice.
- Isn’t that right? - Y-Yes, of course.
Could I get this in one size up?
I… I’m so sorry,
but for that particular dress,
we only have what’s currently on display.
- Ms. Concierge... - Y-Yes, ma'am?
Isn’t this the Hokkyoku Department Store, where “anything you need” can be found?
Yes, of course! I’ll arrange to have it delivered as quickly as possible.
I want it right now!
My apologies.
We’ll make every effort to expedite the order.
You’re a kind concierge, aren’t you?
I can tell you’re genuinely sorry.
Yes, I deeply apologize.
Do you know what service really means?
Pardon?
A “servant”—that’s what it is.
When a servant fails to meet their master’s expectations,
would any truly devoted one just try to brush it off with a half-hearted apology?
I don’t want to force an apology, you see.
I’d never ask you to kneel or bow.
The customer is god.
That’s what you were taught, right?
“There is no such thing as "no" in the concierge’s dictionary!
"We must never fail to meet our customers’ expectations.”
Yes...
Please accept...
...my deepest apologies for- huh?
Akino, let me handle this.
Please accept our sincerest apologies.
Regarding the item being out of stock, I ask for your understanding
and kindly request that you leave for today.
Thank you very much.
Excuse me?
"Leave"? What are you saying?
Are you treating me like some kind of troublemaker
because of your mistake?
That’s beyond rude!
Well, if you’re a god, as you say,
then I ask that you refrain from raising your voice in the store.
It disrupts the peace for other gods around you.
I’ll never set foot in this place again!
Excuse me, ma’am!
I’ll go see her off.
I’ll come, too!
No, Akino, you head back first.
The Caribbean monk seal…
a native to the Caribbean, known for its lack of fear of humans.
Hunters found it easy to approach for its oil-rich blubber.
Declared extinct in 1952.
Oh, um… who are you?
Overly accommodating kindness only leads to self-destruction.
You let that customer get carried away,
and you turned her into a complainer all on your own.
More than anything, don't you think it's a serious offense
to ruin the shopping experience for other customers?
As a concierge,
if you can only focus on what's immediately in front of you,
you're not suited for this role.
You’re not needed in this department store.
Our company commercial, right?
Yes. This dance was actually started by my grandfather.
Honestly, I'd like to update it for modern times, but…
Keeping traditions alive is also an important responsibility for a third-generation leader, isn’t it?
An impressive library you have here.
These were my grandfather’s books—all about the history of living creatures.
He kept records of many extinct animals that no longer walk this earth.
The Laughing Owl, with its distinctive laughter-like call,
was last seen in 1914 in South Canterbury, before its extinction.
The Sea Mink,
targeted for its fur, a prized material,
disappeared by 1880.
The Japanese Wolf, once native to Japan—
its ecology remains mostly a mystery; it went extinct in 1905.
The Great Auk, overhunted for food and oil,
was reported to have only 50 left by around 1830.
But soon after,
humans hunted it down to extinction
in 1844 for specimens.
Around the time of the Great Auk's extinction,
the world’s first department store was born.
An era when people began to buy things
driven not by need, but by desire.
This department store was built to honor the creatures
whose lives were taken by humanity—and to serve them in a way that follows human customs.
To record their tales of suffering, as a small gesture toward redemption for humankind.
A gesture meant to prompt humanity to atone,
even if only a little, for its role in the cycle of mass consumption.
So, it's like a dream theme park
where they can fully enjoy themselves?
And now, I’m thinking about what the
Hokkyoku Department Store will be like in the future.
The future?
Yes, though I’m not entirely certain yet.
But as for her evaluation, leave that to me.
Thank you very much for visiting Hokkyoku Department Store today.
We have an announcement
for all our guests…
Welcome,
and thank you for coming in today.
Ms. Concierge!
Welcome!
Today's the big day, isn't it?
Yes! I came to see Mr. Woolly’s special exhibit.
I can’t wait to see the famous Smilodon piece, too.
It’s currently on display in the Grand Hall.
Thank you! I’ll go take a look.
Enjoy!
“You’re not needed in this department store.”
Um, excuse me...
I'd like to buy a Christmas present
for my daughter...
Oh, of course! I’d be happy to help you with that.
Thank goodness. But I'm on a tight budget...
Do you think you can help me find something with just this?
A gift within one coin…
My daughter, Junji, is often ill,
so she’s in and out of the hospital.
She couldn’t get permission to leave today either.
If only my daughter could walk around the Hokkyoku Department Store at Christmas...
that alone would have been the best present.
With just one coin,
there aren’t many items I can think of.
Hokkyoku Department Store truly is a luxury department store.
Am I even fit to be a concierge here?
Ms. Concierge!
Barbary Lion!
And, could it be, is this—
- This is my fiancée, Teza. - Oh my!
Thank you so much for your help last time!
When I told Teza, she said she’d love to visit Hokkyoku Department Store together.
If there’s anything we could do to repay everyone...
Hm?
Actually, I do have a request...
As you can see,
all the animal statues here are the same height,
out of respect for Mr. Woolly’s wife.
She was always saddened by the shorter
lifespans of smaller animals, and he created this utopia
with her wish in mind—
that if all animals could be equal,
they would share the same stature.
It’s a touching tribute to her memory.
Excuse me.
Ah, it’s quite a grand turnout.
Yes, I’m glad.
Mr. Woolly?
Oh, hello.
Thank you again for your help the other day. Here’s some tea.
Thank you.
Did you get a chance to see the exhibit?
Yes, and I especially loved your Smilodon piece.
My wife...
also thought the Smilodon turned out particularly well.
Ow! Watch where you're going!
I'm so sorry!
What are you going to do about this?!
The Smilodon sculpture is an irreplaceable piece
that cemented Mr. Woolly’s reputation as an artist!
It’s the most precious work he kept, even after the
permafrost in his studio began to thaw!
Mr. Yashida, we understand the significance of Mr. Woolly’s work.
Our store will, of course, take full responsibility for—
This isn’t something you can just replace!
Do you even understand the value of the Smilodon?
Excuse me...
Concierges don’t need to be involved in this.
Akino, step back.
I’m staying.
Do you really think there's something you can do?
I don’t know… but...
I'm staying.
Um, Mr. Woolly...
I apologize deeply.
Please allow me to go and apologize to your wife as well.
Akino...
Mr. Woolly’s wife passed away some time ago.
What?
This matter is settled here.
Everything with form eventually breaks.
The concert's starting! Let’s go, hurry!
Mr. Woolly!
I really, truly apologize for everything that happened—
- You seem down. - Huh?
Today... this entire time, you've looked a bit down…
and on Christmas, no less.
I just… I never feel confident that our customers
are truly happy with what we’ve done.
I wonder if I’m really fit to be a concierge at all.
I feel the same way sometimes.
I question whether the things I create
have any meaning.
That's-
Oh! There you are!
Ms. Concierge! It’s ready!
Really? Is that true?
- Yes. - Thank you so much!
Look, look at this!
Hi, Jonji!
My name is Teza.
Today, I’m visiting Hokkyoku Department Store for the first time,
and it’s beautiful here during Christmas.
How about we walk through the store together and take in all the sights?
Here we are at the New Building’s cosmetics section.
Look at all these vibrant colors!
Jonji, which color do you like best?
And over here is the fragrance section!
The concierge helped me find
a precious perfume that my
late grandmother used to love.
This scarf—I got it here from my dad.
And he bought a pocket watch for himself. Isn’t it lovely?
Who would have thought we’d both be shopping at the same department store?
I think we made our concierge a little jealous!
Ho, ho, ho- oh?
Today, I came shopping with my daughter.
I thought it would be nice to spend some time together like this now and then.
Such a beautiful dress!
We made a promise--
to celebrate our wedding anniversary
at this restaurant every year.
What kind of department store is Hokkyoku, you ask?
Let's see... For me,
it’s a place where there’s always someone gently encouraging you forward.
- Mr. Bird! - Hm?
Um, I have a request.
A request?
Something we can’t do ourselves.
- Impossible. - Please!
I’ve told you so many times—
the Great Auk can’t fly.
It’s a request from the concierge.
She wants to show the wonders of Hokkyoku Department Store
to a customer who couldn’t make it here today because they’re ill.
She wants to share the magic of this place with them.
So this is the way of the future...
My wife loved Hokkyoku Department Store.
But whenever I asked her what she loved most,
she’d just smile and say,
"You’ll understand if you go."
So, what do you love about Hokkyoku Department Store?
I...
I love that every customer who comes through our doors leaves with a smile.
Even those who arrive with worries or sadness
eventually leave here smiling.
That’s the kind of Hokkyoku Department Store I love.
That's why...
I want to stay here!
It's here... where I want to give my very best to make every customer feel welcome and cared for!
I see.
I'm glad to hear it.
Excuse me, Mr. Woolly!
I’m really, really sorry.
Here, this is for you!
Um, you see...
I’m a huge fan of yours, and I’m just an apprentice pastry chef,
but the concierge mentioned it,
and everyone from the restaurant helped out, and—
Um...
Would you show me?
That's...
My...
My wife and I...
Thank you.
What a beautiful sight--
all these customers looking for gifts to bring happiness to their loved ones.
But even so, we can never be sure
if those gifts will truly bring happiness.
Yet, I believe this:
a concierge should always strive to wholeheartedly support customers
in their desire to bring joy, even when they’re uncertain of the outcome.
When I watch her, I think...
"She finds joy in making others happy."
That’s the true spirit of a concierge, one that anyone can embody.
A department store’s dream lies opposite of pure desire.
Feeling that this dream is beautiful—
perhaps it’s because, in some ways, we’re becoming a bit too human ourselves.
Thank you...
for visiting us today.
In this department store, where I work...
where all kinds of animals come as customers.
To our guests with wings,
to those with hooves,
To our small guests
and our big guests,
And even to those who may appear… a bit unusual.
Whoa, whoa! I'm so sorry!
Welcome!
Is there anything I can help you with?
Who are you, nice lady?
Me?