22 Studio Ghibli Characters Everyone Loves Posted Sep 7, 2023
Founded by the illustrious directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata and producer Toshio Suzuki, Studio Ghibli stands as one of the most revered animation studios in history.
With such a vast array of films from Studio Ghibli, it's impossible to feature every fan favorite on this list.
Nevertheless, we've curated a selection of 22 remarkable characters from the 23 Studio Ghibli movies.
Robots (Castle in the Sky)
Ghibli Studio characters often present rich backgrounds and intricate storylines that captivate audiences. One such character is the robot that descended from Laputa.
Its capture by the army was a testament to the real existence of Laputa, debunking the idea that it was just a fictional locale from Gulliver's Travels. This revelation propelled the government to collaborate with Muska, a descendant of the Laputian lineage, to uncover the elusive location.
The primary duty of these robots, as exemplified by the one seized by the army, is to protect and serve the Laputian royal bloodline unconditionally. This dedication extends to those like Sheeta, even if they reside away from Laputa.
Ursula (Kiki's Delivery Service)
Before taking on Ursula, she was simply referred to as 'The Woman' or 'Bird Lady'. Hayao Miyazaki commented on her significance in the movie: "Kiki's immediate need is for a compassionate friend who can empathize with her struggles. Encountering such a person is even more vital than her professional standing."
Miyazaki further expressed, "I have a deep fondness for Ursula. I was particularly attentive to the tonality of her voice. Initially, Minami Takayama, who voiced Kiki, was slated to portray Ursula. It was challenging for her to juggle both roles, but we were keen on having her voice both characters."
Kiki (Hayao Miyazaki's Kiki's Delivery Service)
At 13 years old, Kiki, with her determined spirit, left her hometown of Karikiya to embark on a year-long training essential for becoming a witch. She possesses a blend of qualities: friendly, inquisitive, compassionate, and cheerful. Yet, her stubbornness and pride occasionally work against her. Her deep bond with her black cat, Jiji, is evident, often referring to him as her closest companion.
Taeko (Only Yesterday)
Taeko Okajima is the protagonist of the film "Only Yesterday" ("Omoide Poro Poro" in Japanese), which was produced by Studio Ghibli and directed by Isao Takahata. Released in 1991, the movie delves into the memories, dreams, and realities of an unmarried 27-year-old woman named Taeko as she takes a vacation from her life in Tokyo to visit relatives in the countryside.
The film switches between two timelines: one follows the adult Taeko on her vacation and her encounters during her stay, while the other delves into her fifth-grade self, recounting various episodes from her childhood.
These memories from her younger days reflect on various moments that shaped her, from first loves and friendships to family dynamics and personal aspirations.
Fujimoto (Ponyo)
Fujimoto is a character from the 2008 Studio Ghibli film "Ponyo," directed by Hayao Miyazaki. He plays a significant role in the story as the once-human father of Ponyo, the titular character.
In the film, Fujimoto is an underwater wizard or sorcerer who once lived on land but abandoned it due to his disillusionment with humans and their treatment of the ocean. He has dedicated himself to preserving the balance of the sea.
Ponyo, his daughter, is a magical fish who desires to become human, a wish that leads her to form a bond with a young boy named Sosuke. Fujimoto is initially opposed to Ponyo's wish to become human, as he fears it will disrupt the balance of nature.
Soot Sprites (My Neighbor Totoro/Spirited Away)
Studio Ghibli characters often capture our imaginations with their unique designs and personalities. Among these is the Soot Sprites. Originating from soot, these small, black, fuzzy beings have spherical forms and feature white eyes with black pupils.
Although they typically levitate as their primary means of movement, the film showcases their ability to produce black, wiry limbs from their bodies for specific purposes, such as moving coal into a furnace.
Remarkably, they can handle objects much heavier than themselves. If pressed or crushed, they disintegrate into soot, only to reform quickly.
Dola (Castle in the Sky)
Dola leads a group of air pirates in "Castle in the Sky." She often clashes with Colonel Muska, her adversary. Her desire for the riches of the legendary floating city, Laputa, initially makes her conflict with the film's main characters. While Dola initially seems domineering, materialistic, and self-centered, her character evolves. As the story unfolds, her gentler side emerges, and she gradually warms up to Sheeta and Pazu.
Jiro (The Wind Rises)
Early in the film, Jiro is seen atop his roof, soaring above Japan in an airplane. Yet his aspirations are crushed upon realizing that his nearsightedness prevents him from flying. He then encounters Caproni, an Italian aircraft designer, who assures him that even if he can't fly planes, he can design them.
Driven by this inspiration, Jiro immerses himself in airplane design, frequently visited by Caproni in his dreams. Years later, en route to Tokyo Imperial University, the devastating Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 strikes.
Jiji (Kiki's Delivery Service)
Jiji accompanies Kiki on her journey towards becoming a proficient witch. On one occasion, he had to masquerade as a plush toy for a boy's birthday, as the actual toy cat that bore a striking resemblance to him went missing in the woods.
Jiji later finds a romantic interest in Lily, a white cat. By the end of the story, as revealed in the credits, they have kittens together. Jiji, a black feline with prominent white eyes featuring black centers, has iris purple inner ears. As a magical familiar, his lifespan exceeds that of regular cats.
Mei (My Neighbor Totoro)
Mei, in "My Neighbor Totoro," is Satsuki's younger sibling. As per Miyazaki's 1987 directorial notes, while Satsuki is dependable and sharp, Mei showcases determination and tenacity.
Her vibrant cheerfulness echoes her older sister's persistence and courage. Although initially reserved and not talkative, Mei's keen observation skills suggest she might be even more attentive than Satsuki.
Seita and Setsuko (Grave of the Fireflies)
Seita Yokokawa, a central figure in "Grave of the Fireflies," is one of the famous Studio Ghibli characters. At fourteen years of age, Seita faces immense challenges after the tragic loss of his mother during the Kobe firebombing in World War II.
This adversity plunges him and his younger sister, Setsuko Yokokawa, into a relentless battle for survival. Born in 1931, Seita was a decade older than Setsuko. Throughout the Second World War, their father served with the Japanese navy.
With him away, Seita, Setsuko, and their mother lived in Kobe. However, the city faced devastation in 1945 when the American forces targeted it in a firebombing raid.
Anna (When Marnie Was There)
Anna is the protagonist of the animated film "When Marnie Was There," which was produced by Studio Ghibli and directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi. The movie was released in 2014 and is based on the 1967 novel of the same name by Joan G. Robinson.Anna is a 12-year-old girl sent to the countryside to stay with relatives due to her asthma.
Feeling isolated and detached from others because of her introverted personality and lack of self-esteem, Anna soon discovers an old, seemingly abandoned mansion where she meets a mysterious girl named Marnie.
Haku (Spirited Away)
When Chihiro encounters Haku, she's on the bridge leading to the Bathhouse. Sensing danger, Haku urgently advises her to leave the town and return across the river before dusk. However, her panic sets in when Chihiro cannot follow his advice.
In her distressed state, Haku searches for her. Discovering that she's beginning to turn invisible, he provides her with food to prevent her disappearance. He comes to her aid again when her legs become immobilized, guiding her to the Bathhouse.
Later, across the bridge in the secluded garden, Haku advises Chihiro to seek employment from Kamajī, the boiler man, to ensure her survival.
Lady Eboshi (Princess Mononoke)
Lady Eboshi, one of the prominent female Studio Ghibli characters, is introduced when she and her army transport rice to Irontown, surviving an ambush by San and the wolves. Upon Ashitaka's arrival in Irontown, he meets Eboshi and discovers she is the reason behind Nago's transformation into a demon.
Their confrontations escalate when San attacks Irontown to challenge her. In a turn of events, Eboshi decapitates the Forest Spirit, leading to Moro biting off her right arm. Following the land's healing, she vows to construct a better town and respect the forest's boundaries.
No Face (Spirited Away)
No Face (or "Kaonashi", which translates to "Faceless" in English) is a mysterious and iconic character from the Studio Ghibli film "Spirited Away," directed by Hayao Miyazaki and released in 2001. "Spirited Away" is a critically acclaimed film known for its rich storytelling, deep themes, and beautiful animation.
As the story progresses, No Face starts to exhibit more complex behaviors. It consumes food, workers, and even gold in the Bathhouse, growing larger and more monstrous each time. This behavior signifies its desire for a sense of belonging and the corrupting influence of the bathhouse environment.
Catbus (My Neighbor Totoro)
Catbus (Nekobasu in Japanese) is a character from the 1988 animated film "My Neighbor Totoro" directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The Catbus is a large, furry cat-like creature that functions as a bus, transporting passengers inside its belly.
Its appearance is quite iconic: it has a big grin, large, glowing eyes, and multiple legs reminiscent of both a cat and a bus. The body is covered in fur, with windows and seats inside, and its tail lights up like a bus signal.
Marco Pagot (Porco Rosso)
Studio Ghibli characters are known for their intricate designs and compelling backstories. One such character is Marco Pagot, better recognized as Porco Rosso.
As the central figure of "Porco Rosso," he is a talented pilot who, due to a curse, has taken on the appearance of a pig. His first introduction was in Hayao Miyazaki's short story, "The Age of the Flying Boat."
Decked out in black sunglasses, a handlebar mustache, and a white scarf draped around his neck, Porco exudes charisma despite his unique appearance.
Howl (Howl's Moving Castle)
Howl is the central character in the film "Howl's Moving Castle," another masterpiece from Studio Ghibli directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The movie was released in 2004 and is an adaptation of the novel of the same name by Diana Wynne Jones.
Howl is depicted as a young, handsome wizard with ever-changing hair colors throughout the film, from blonde to red to black. He is often seen in flamboyant clothing.
He possesses powerful magic and lives in the eponymous Moving Castle, a mechanical, walking abode powered by a fire demon named Calcifer.
Chihiro (Spirited Away)
Chihiro Ogino, Spirited Away's protagonist, stumbles into a realm filled with spirits and deities. Though fear initially grips her, she becomes a resourceful and brave young girl.
As she navigates this mystical world, she takes a bathhouse job serving spirits with the hope of rescuing her parents, whom a spell has turned into pigs.
Her story encapsulates a coming-of-age narrative, and her transition from a timid child to a courageous hero showcases the resilience and strength inherent in us all. This journey solidifies her status as a cherished Ghibli character.
Nausicaä (Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind)
Studio Ghibli's catalog retroactively includes Hayao Miyazaki's 1984 film "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind," even though it predates its establishment. This film laid the foundation for Miyazaki's recurring themes and was seminal in introducing strong-willed female Studio Ghibli characters like Nausicaä.
As a princess and scientist in a post-apocalyptic setting, she protects her people from colossal insects and invaders. While striving for peace and understanding the insects, she grapples with her capacity for violence, especially after her father's death.
Nausicaä stands as a relatable and commendable role model. The story's manga also delves deeper into its world and characters post-film.
Totoro (My Neighbor Totoro)
When you reflect on renowned characters birthed by anime studios, Totoro from "My Neighbor Totoro" stands out as a beloved global mascot. This large, amiable forest spirit forms a bond with two young girls, Satsuki and Mei, helping them cope with their mother's sickness and their transition to a new residence.
Sporting a fluffy coat, a generous belly, and a memorable broad-eyed smile, Totoro epitomizes the wonder and purity of youth. His warm spirit and the solace he offers the sisters render him an emblem of affection, optimism, and the mystical allure of nature.
San (Princess Mononoke)
San, often referred to as "Princess Mononoke," is a pivotal character from the acclaimed Studio Ghibli film "Princess Mononoke" (Mononoke-hime in Japanese), which was released in 1997 and directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki.
The film is known for its intricate storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and the profound environmental and moral themes it delves into.
San, along with other Studio Ghibli characters, has been a huge influence on popular culture, both in Japan and internationally.
Her mask's iconography, relationship with the wolves, and battles against the forces that seek to destroy the forest are memorable. Fan art, merchandise, cosplay, and references in other media further showcase her enduring popularity.
