In a moment of foolishness, Ma Xiaoyang neglects his studies, driving his heartbroken father to his death. His mother tearfully sells their ancestral restaurant and leaves for another place, severing all ties with her son. To raise his infant daughter, he sleeps under bridges, carries cement, and runs a fried rice stall, repaying his debts one penny at a time. Through years of hardship, he finally grows into a responsible man. Determined to make amends, he returns to the examination hall and, through sheer perseverance, raises his score from 250 to 670 points, ultimately earning admission to Kyoto University.