September 15th is recognized as “Sekigahara Battle Day.” This day commemorates the Battle of Sekigahara, which dramatically unfolded on Keichou 5, September 15 (October 21, 1600, in the Gregorian calendar). This monumental clash saw the Eastern Army, brilliantly led by Tokugawa Ieyasu, emerge victorious over the Western Army, commanded by Ishida Mitsunari, thus becoming a pivotal turning point that majestically paved the way for the establishment of the Edo Shogunate.

Anime, too, is richly imbued with a myriad of captivating characters inspired by the venerable bushi and samurai. From meticulously portraying the lives of real-life military commanders with historical accuracy to vividly crafting fantastical samurai figures in imaginative worlds, or even delving into the profound human dramas of wandering swordsmen, the diverse approaches to these characters are undeniably alluring and a significant draw for fans.

Following the immense success of last year’s survey, Anime! Anime! proudly conducted another reader poll titled “Who is your favorite ‘Bushi/Samurai’ character?”. We were delighted to receive 369 enthusiastic responses during the poll period, which ran from August 28th to September 3rd. The demographic breakdown revealed a slight majority of female respondents, with approximately 35 percent male and 65 percent female. Regarding age groups, a significant portion, about 50 percent, were under 19, while respondents in their 20s and 30s each comprised about 15 percent.

Samurai with Unwavering Principles Assemble!

#1 Rank

The undisputed #1 spot in our poll goes to Sakata Gintoki from Gintama. With an impressive support rate of approximately 25 percent, he proudly maintains his top position from last year’s survey, proving his enduring popularity.

Readers showered him with fervent praise, with comments such as: “He’s usually such a complete slacker, but when he gets serious, he’s impossibly cool! I was absolutely thrilled by the emotional climax of Episode 322, ‘Juu Nen,’ where he dramatically confronts his former comrade, Takasugi, and draws his bokutou!!” Another fan passionately described him: “Despite his constant grumbling and endless complaints, he possesses a true, unwavering samurai heart, fiercely upholding his convictions for the sake of his beloved companions. Even with his usual dead-fish eyes, his gaze becomes intensely infused with soul during battles, a truly captivating transformation.” This dramatic contrast during combat truly captures the hearts of his devoted fans.

A dedicated fan further articulated, “His own iconic line, ‘I’m the biggest idiot samurai in the universe, dammit!!’ profoundly encapsulates his essence. Precisely because of his heavy and painful past, he is a protagonist who relentlessly adheres to his samurai spirit, striving with all his might to protect the irreplaceable everyday lives he shares with his companions.” Such heartfelt comments reveal the deep admiration and respect for his unique and complex bushido.

#2 Rank

Securing the #2 position with grace is Himura Kenshin from Rurouni Kenshin -Meiji Kenkaku Romantan-. With a respectable support rate of approximately 8 percent, he admirably maintains the same impressive rank as last year, demonstrating his timeless appeal.

Fans enthusiastically shared their admiration, stating, “Though he possesses a gentle and somewhat innocent demeanor, once he grasps his katana, the fierce intensity and formidable presence of Hitokiri Battousai are unmistakably unleashed… I was deeply moved by Kenshin’s profound transformation from a ruthless assassin, repenting his past transgressions,” and “His sakabatou, a reverse-blade sword, is a powerful and poignant symbol of his solemn vow to never take another life.” This extraordinary samurai, living through the dramatic and tumultuous transition from the Edo to Meiji eras, clearly resonates deeply with many. His iconic way of speaking, famously using “sessha” and “gozaru,” truly embodies “THE Samurai” for many. Many fondly recall mimicking him in their childhood, drawing the distinctive cross-shaped scar on their cheeks with a red pen, highlighting his approachable charm as another key reason for his enduring popularity.

#3 Rank

Landing gracefully in the #3 spot is Ishikawa Goemon from Lupin Sansei. With approximately 6 percent of the votes, he has commendably climbed the ranks from his 7th place standing last year, showcasing a renewed surge in his popularity!

Ishikawa Goemon is introduced as the 13th descendant of a famed Sengoku period thief, carrying on a legendary legacy. While initially presented as a formidable adversary to Lupin Sansei, he has since become a deeply trusted companion and an integral member of the crew, fighting valiantly alongside them with unwavering loyalty.

Votes poured in for Goemon due to his immense and widespread recognition. Fans commented, “Not only is he personally famous, but so is his legendary beloved katana, Zantetsuken. His iconic catchphrase, ‘Another worthless thing… I have cut,’ is simply too famous to be forgotten,” and “He’s a serious, dutiful, ascetic, and notoriously shy around women, embodying the very image of a quintessential samurai character.” The recent release of the new movie, LUPIN THE IIIRD THE MOVIE Fujimi no Chizoku, this year also provided a significant boost to his already considerable popularity, drawing new attention to this timeless character.

Other Noteworthy Comments!

For Hojo Tokiyuki from Nige Jouzu no Wakagimi, a reader enthusiastically commented, “A medieval bushi character from the Kamakura to Nanbokuchou periods is quite a rare and refreshing sight in anime, isn’t he? While his undeniable cuteness instantly captures attention, his indomitable spirit, never once losing the inherent pride of the Hojo family and bravely rising again and again from adversity, truly shines as his most compelling trait.”

For Kanzaki Souma from Ensemble Stars!, a fan shared, “Born into a distinguished samurai family, he habitually carries his katana and his archaic speech and exceptionally serious demeanor are truly those of a pure bushi. There’s also a charmingly slightly dangerous side to him, like when he dramatically attempts to commit seppuku to apologize for a perceived failure…”

Regarding Mr. Bushido from Kidou Senshi Gundam 00, a comment playfully read, “He’s a mysterious pilot who meticulously hides his face behind an enigmatic mask. It’s utterly fascinating how he enthusiastically embodies a somewhat misguided, yet utterly committed, image of a bushi. And, of course, with Nakamura Yuuichi’s distinctive voice, his true identity is pretty obvious to discerning fans, haha!”

And for Miyamoto Musashi from Fate/Grand Order, a fan warmly expressed, “The legendary great swordsman, Miyamoto Musashi, makes a vibrant appearance as a female character in Fate. I honestly can’t count how many times I’ve been joyfully saved by the bright and cheerful Musashi-chan… Her profound choices during her journey are truly moving and cannot be spoken of without shedding tears.” It’s clear that votes also poured in for characters who boldly reinterpret and reimagine historical figures in captivating new ways.

For the 2025 edition, samurai characters harboring strong and resolute determination impressively dominated the top ranks. It’s also a particularly notable characteristic that multiple beloved characters from the same iconic series, such as Gintama, One Piece, and Kimetsu no Yaiba, skillfully made their way into these competitive rankings. Don’t miss out on the complete Top 20 results, which will be revealed on the next page!

Top 10 Rankings

[Who is your favorite “Bushi/Samurai” character? 2025 Edition]
1st: Sakata Gintoki, Gintama
2nd: Himura Kenshin, Rurouni Kenshin -Meiji Kenkaku Romantan-
3rd: Ishikawa Goemon, Lupin Sansei
4th: Hagane Yaiba, YAIBA
5th: Hijikata Toshizo, Hakuouki ~Shinsengumi Kitan~
6th: Hojo Tokiyuki, Nige Jouzu no Wakagimi
6th: Roronoa Zoro, One Piece
8th: Tsugikuni Yorichi, Kimetsu no Yaiba
9th: Kasumi, Itai no wa Iya nano de Bougyoryoku ni Kyokufuri Shitai to Omoimasu.
9th: Fukuzawa Yukichi, Bungou Stray Dogs

(Response Period: August 28th to September 3rd, 2025)

Next Page: Top 20 Rankings Revealed!