Not every hero needs superpowers to win over fans. Sometimes, all we need is a sincere smile, a kind gesture, or a comforting word. In this post, we celebrate 10 of anime's kindest characters who, with their empathy and generosity, remind us of the power of kindness.
10. Yotsuba Nakano
- Anime : The Quintessential Quintuplets
- MAL Rating : 7.63 (Season 1)
- Year: 2019
- Studio: Tezuka Productions
- Episodes: 12
Yotsuba is undoubtedly the spark of joy among her sisters. While the other quintuplets oscillate between conflicts and insecurities, she stands out for her infectious energy and genuine altruism. But most captivating is that her kindness isn't performative—she acts without expecting anything in return, even if it means hiding her own feelings for the sake of others' happiness.
However, her kindness comes with a touch of sadness. Yotsuba carries the burden of feeling like the "less talented" of her sisters, and perhaps because of that, she compensates with an even bigger heart. Thus, her empathy goes beyond what's visible on the surface—it's made of silent sacrifice, constant presence, and love expressed in small, profound gestures.
09. Ken Kaneki
- Anime : Tokyo Ghoul
- MAL Rating : 7.79 (Season 1)
- Year: 2014
- Studio: Pierrot
- Episodes: 12
At first glance, Kaneki may seem like just another tragic protagonist. But as his humanity fades amid the pain and chaos of the ghoul world, it's his kindness that persists—and surprises. Even after losing everything, he refuses to let hatred win. Instead, he offers compassion to those who need it most, including enemies who, in theory, don't deserve it.
It's true that he transforms—literally and emotionally—but that doesn't make him any less kind. On the contrary, his empathy becomes more conscious, almost painful. Moreover, it's this wounded kindness that makes him so real: he's living proof that being kind doesn't mean being weak—it's often choosing to suffer because you don't want to make others suffer.
08. Simon
- Anime : Gurren Lagann
- Grade BAD: 8.64
- Year: 2007
- Studio: Gainax
- Episodes: 27
Simon starts out as an insecure, almost invisible boy. But even at his worst, he never loses his ability to care. While others shout and gush with grandiose speeches, Simon listens. He offers his shoulder, his time, and even his faith—and that's what makes him indispensable.
Over time, he grows, but without leaving behind that gentle essence. Even as he becomes a symbol of hope, Simon never forgets the value of individual effort. Thus, his kindness is not just a personality trait—it is the foundation of his strength, and perhaps, what truly moves heaven.
07. Nagisa Furukawa
- Anime : Clannad
- MAL Rating : 7.99 (Season 1)
- Year: 2007-2008
- Studio: Kyoto Animation
- Episodes: 23
Nagisa is the kind of character who, upon entering the scene, changes the atmosphere around her. Her physical fragility contrasts with a resilient sweetness that doesn't easily shake. Even facing loneliness, fear, and her own limitations, she chooses to smile—not because it's easy, but because she wants others to feel good around her.
Furthermore, her empathy never feels forced. She listens before judging, welcomes before acting, and loves with rare patience. Nagisa reminds us that kindness is also courage—and that sometimes, it's the most sensitive hearts that hold the world together.
06. Chihiro Ogino
- Anime : Spirited Away
- Grade BAD: 8.77
- Year: 2001
- Studio: Studio Ghibli
- Episodes: 01 (Movie)
Chihiro begins her journey as a frightened child, lost in a strange and dangerous world. However, even surrounded by spirits and threats, she demonstrates an admirable sensitivity. Her kindness is revealed in the simplest moments: caring for Haku, helping the Faceless One, and refusing to be corrupted by the temptations around her.
But the most beautiful thing is that her kindness matures with her. As she grows emotionally, Chihiro begins to act not just out of fear, but out of true empathy. Thus, she becomes a reminder that, even in a chaotic universe, small acts of kindness have the power to transform realities.
The Best Kind Anime Characters – Top 5
05. Deku
- Anime : My Hero Academia
- MAL Rating : 7.83 (Season 1)
- Year: 2016
- Studio: Bones
- Episodes: 13
Izuku Midoriya, or Deku, is known for his burning desire to become a hero—but what truly defines him isn't his strength, but his sensitivity. Even before he had powers, he risked everything for those in need. But his kindness goes beyond physical action: he sees the pain of others, even when it's hidden behind masks or attacks.
And this empathy transforms him. Throughout the story, he not only fights villains but also tries to understand them. Thus, Deku proves that being kind is also a strategic choice—and often the most difficult one. After all, in a world of constant battles, keeping an open heart is a superpower in itself.
04. Edward Elric
- Anime : Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
- Grade BAD: 9.10
- Year: 2009-2010
- Studio: Bones
- Episodes: 64
Edward is impulsive, proud, and sometimes stubborn. However, behind all this fire lies a deeply compassionate heart. His journey, which begins driven by guilt, transforms into a quest for justice and the protection of those he loves. But even when dealing with cruel enemies, he avoids killing whenever possible—a rare gesture in such dark stories.
Furthermore, his kindness is revealed in details: in the way he cares for Alphonse, in the words he chooses when speaking to war victims, or in the way he acknowledges his own mistakes. Thus, Edward shows us that kindness doesn't require perfection—it requires awareness and the courage to strive to be better.
The Best Kind Anime Characters – Top 3
03. Tanjiro Kamado
- Anime : Demon Slayer
- MAL Rating : 8.43 (Season 1)
- Year: 2019
- Studio: ufotable
- Episodes: 26
Tanjiro is the kind of character who looks at monsters and still sees human pain. In a world where demons destroy everything precious, he chooses not only to fight—but also to understand. His kindness doesn't stop him from being ruthless; on the contrary, it makes him even stronger, as he carries every battle in his heart.
Yet, most impressively, his compassion never runs dry. Even after so many losses, he still offers forgiveness, empathy, and even prayer to his enemies. Thus, Tanjiro embodies a kindness that is not naive, but profoundly wise—and, therefore, moving.
02. Shouko Nishimiya
- Anime : A Silent Voice
- Grade BAD: 8.93
- Year: 2016
- Studio: Kyoto Animation
- Episodes: 01 (Movie)
Shouko carries the weight of silence, but her presence screams tenderness. Even after suffering cruel bullying, she tries to reach out with a shy smile, offering friendship to those who hurt her most. This isn't because she ignores the pain, but because she chooses to break the cycle—and that, in itself, is an act of immense bravery.
Furthermore, her way of being is a lesson in itself. Shouko doesn't seek attention, but transforms those who cross her path. Her kindness is as quiet as it is powerful, and reminds us that sometimes the most difficult forgiveness is the most necessary—including for herself.
01. Tohru Honda
- Anime : Fruits Basket
- MAL Rating : 8.21 (Season 1)
- Year: 2019
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
- Episodes: 25
Tohru Honda is practically the embodiment of kindness. She listens with her heart, helps without hesitation, and enlightens others without even realizing it. But most touchingly, her kindness doesn't come from a place of naivety—on the contrary, she knows the pain of loss, loneliness, and insecurity. And yet, she chooses to love.
However, she's not just a "nice girl." Her kindness is active, firm, and often defiant. Tohru confronts family traumas, breaks emotional curses, and shows that, yes, being kind can be revolutionary. Thus, she reminds us that healing begins with a hug, a listening ear, a gesture—no matter how small.
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