A lifelong servant and caretaker of the Chan family’s summer house in Tarumi, he is a quiet and reserved villager who develops a deep friendship with Stephen. Matsu plays a key role in revealing the village's history and his personal connections to its people.

A former villager of Tarumi and longtime companion of Matsu, she is a woman marked by leprosy and characterized by her resilient spirit. Her relationship with Matsu and her personal struggles provide Stephen with a new understanding of beauty and suffering.

Matsu’s childhood friend and a significant figure in the Matsu-Sachi-Kenzo triangle, who was once engaged to Sachi. His character illustrates themes of loyalty and betrayal due to past decisions.

The younger sister of Kenzo, who succumbed to the pressures of her leprosy diagnosis and took her life. Her story deeply affects the lives of Matsu, Kenzo, and Sachi.

Matsu’s older sister, who moved to Tokyo with her husband before the story's events. Her visits to Tarumi provoke storytelling that enriches the narrative's backdrop.

Stephen’s father, a businessman who lives between Hong Kong and Kobe, Japan, balancing his family obligations with an affair. His relationship with Stephen evolves significantly throughout the story.

Stephen’s mother, traditional and somewhat detached, who struggles with the consequences of her husband's affair. Her character shapes the backdrop of Stephen’s family dynamics.

Stephen’s twelve-year-old sister, intelligent and caring, who corresponds with Stephen during his recuperation in Tarumi. Her actions reflect personal growth amid wartime challenges.

Stephen’s older siblings, who attend school in Macao. Their roles in the story highlight the Chan family's Westernization and separation during wartime.

The Chan family’s servant, who performs essential childcare and household duties. Her character underscores the theme of service within the family.

Stephen’s friend from school, whose letters keep Stephen connected to life outside Tarumi. His news updates contribute to themes of connection and conflict.

A local girl in Tarumi, who becomes romantically involved with Stephen. Her relationship with him is constrained by cultural and familial pressures during the wartime setting.

An early villager of Yamaguchi, who aids in the building of the village and supports Stephen and Matsu during a critical event. His presence signifies change within the community.

Another early villager in Yamaguchi, who provides care and empathy to Sachi during her integration into the village. Her story within the narrative highlights themes of sacrifice and loss.