In *Chibi Maruko‑chan: Watashi no Suki na Uta*, third‑grade student Sakura Momoko is tasked by her teacher to create a drawing inspired by her favorite song for an upcoming contest. Excited about a new song she just learned in music class, she worries about producing a good illustration. While heading to visit relatives in Shizuoka, she meets university student Shouko Kimura, who occasionally sketches portraits at the local train station and also plans to enter the same art contest. Captivated by Kimura’s drawings, Sakura encounters her again, and the two quickly become friends. Shouko is drawn to Sakura’s empathy and honesty, and the friendship inspires both of them in their artistic endeavors.