"Kaika no Susume" is a manga series set in a fictionalized version of Japan during the Meiji Restoration, a period marked by rapid modernization and cultural upheaval. The story centers around a young woman named Akari, who works as a maid in a Western-style mansion owned by a wealthy and influential family. Akari is deeply curious about the new technologies and ideas flooding into Japan from the West, particularly the concept of "civilization and enlightenment" (bunmei kaika) that drives the era's reforms. Her fascination with progress leads her to cross paths with a diverse cast of characters, including inventors, scholars, and political figures, each representing different facets of the societal transformation.

The narrative explores Akari's journey as she navigates the complexities of a society in transition. Her interactions with the mansion's inhabitants and visitors reveal the tensions between tradition and modernity, as well as the personal struggles of individuals adapting to a rapidly changing world. Key characters include the mansion's enigmatic master, a forward-thinking industrialist with a hidden agenda, and a foreign engineer who becomes both a mentor and a source of conflict for Akari. The story also delves into the lives of other maids and servants, highlighting their perspectives on the sweeping changes affecting their roles and identities.

As the plot unfolds, Akari becomes increasingly involved in the broader movements shaping Japan's future, from the construction of railways to the introduction of Western education. Her curiosity and determination often place her at odds with those who resist change, leading to conflicts that reflect the era's ideological divides. The manga balances historical elements with fictionalized drama, offering a nuanced portrayal of the Meiji period's challenges and opportunities. Through Akari's eyes, the series examines themes of progress, identity, and the human cost of societal transformation, all while maintaining a focus on the personal stories that drive the narrative forward.