Based on a story written by Kenji Miyazawa, Night on the Galactic Railroad tells the story of young Giovanni, a boy who is ridiculed by his classmates and helps his ill mother to the best of his abilities. Things change for Giovanni when, one night, he and his childhood friend board a mysterious steam locomotive that arrives in a feild near their town. This train takes them on an amazing journey through time and space, life and afterlife, introducing them to many unique individuals and events, and teaches Giovanni many significant lessons about life, and the importance of friendship.