Kaze Tachinu, or The Wind Rises, is a compelling autobiographical film by Studio Ghibli, inspired by the genius engineer Jiro Horikoshi. During World War II, he was tasked with designing fighter planes for the Imperial Japanese Navy.
In addition to a strong historical setting, this anime also features a storyline filled with romance. In the film, Jiro develops a love affair with a beautiful girl named Naoko Satomi.
In this article, we would to explore the most interesting characters in Kaze Tachinu. Without further ado, let's get into it!
10. Hattori
Hattori serves as the head of aircraft design at the Mitsubishi Aircraft Company. He first appears on Jiro's first day at the company. He and Kurokawa are seen reading Jiro's drafts.
Hattori then reappears in the story when Jiro is being hunted by the Japanese secret police. He also listens to Jiro's presentation on designing a lighter aircraft.
9. Naoko's Father
Although not the main character, Naoko's father is one of the most interesting characters in the story. He appears to be a wealthy businessman. He runs an inn where Jiro once stayed.
As a father, he cares deeply about his daughter's health. He always strives for Naoko's recovery. He was initially surprised when Jiro decided to marry Naoko. However, he later approved of their relationship.
8. Mrs. Kurokawa
Kurokawa has a beautiful, friendly, and kind wife. When Naoko first arrived at his house, he welcomed her warmly. He also fully supported Jiro and Naoko's decision to marry.
Mrs. Kurokawa prepared everything, including dressing Naoko like a bride in a traditional Japanese kimono. She and her husband witnessed their wedding.
7. Castorp
Next, there's a German man named Castorp. He is friendly and knowledgeable about world politics. He had a brief discussion with Jiro, and the two became close.
Castorp also witnessed the moment when Jiro expressed his intention to marry Naoko. On one occasion, he played the piano skillfully. The song he performed was "Das gibt's nur einmal."
6. Kiro Honjo
Next, there's Jiro's good friend, Kiro Honjo. They both work at the Mitsubishi Aircraft Company. They both enjoy exchanging ideas about developing good aircraft for Japan.
Honjo has a critical nature and likes to express his opinions honestly. He also has a sporting spirit. When offered an interesting idea or design by Jiro, he refuses to use it until Jiro first implements it.
5. Kayo Horikoshi
Jiro has a younger sister named Kayo. She initially appears to be a chatty little girl. However, she has big dreams like her brother: she wants to become a doctor.
Kayo decides to study medicine, gaining a broad understanding of the medical world. When she hears the news of her brother's marriage, she is overjoyed. However, she is worried about Naoko's health.
4. Giovanni Battista Caproni
Giovanni Battista Caproni is known as a renowned Italian aircraft engineer. He is Jiro's main idol. He was first mentioned in an Aviation magazine that Jiro borrowed from a classmate.
Caproni then frequently appeared in Jiro's dreams. He appeared like an elegant, nobleman. Furthermore, his speech was very polite and inspired Jiro to pursue his dreams.
3. Kurokawa
In third place is Jiro's superior, Kurokawa. He has a short stature and a very unique haircut. Every time he walks, his hair is often seen swaying.
Kurokawa has a strict and stern personality with his subordinates. He often runs into deadlines set by the army. Despite this, he is essentially a kind and caring man.
2. Naoko Satomi
Naoko Satomi is a sweet girl who first met Jiro on a train ride. At that time, a major earthquake struck the Kanto region. She and her maid were saved by Jiro.
After the incident, Naoko felt indebted to Jiro. She had always dreamed of meeting him because she had feelings for him. That wish finally came true.
Unfortunately, Naoko had tuberculosis, which weakened her body. However, she remained enthusiastic about life, especially after she was with Jiro. Although their happiness was short-lived, their memories are priceless.
1. Jiro Horikoshi
First place goes to Jiro Horikoshi, the main protagonist in the story of Kaze Tachinu. He is a smart and creative engineer. Since childhood, he has had a strong obsession with airplanes.
Unfortunately, Jiro cannot become a pilot due to his nearsightedness. However, he doesn't give up easily. He strives to become an engineer capable of creating advanced aircraft for Japan.
Despite his life as an engineer, Jiro is a kind and helpful man. He is also very loyal to the woman he loves, Naoko. Even though he knows about Naoko's illness, he still loves her sincerely.