Personality: He may seem short-tempered and foul-mouthed, but he is a dependable, big-brother figure with a deep sense of duty who cherishes his comrades. Relationships: He is often seen drinking with Heisuke Todo and Shinpachi Nagakura. Heisuke and Okita affectionately call him "Sano-san." Past: He has a heavy past, having once attempted seppuku (he still bears the scar) after an argument with a member of his former clan.

Reliable Big Brother: He is particularly close to Sanosuke Harada and Heisuke Todo, serving as a mood maker within their "Three Idiots" trio. Straightforward Justice: He possesses a passionate side, openly clashing with Isami Kondo's one-man leadership style or the direction of the Shinsengumi based on his own convictions as a warrior.

A Relatable Youth with Inner Conflict: Behind his cheerful exterior, he possesses a sensitive side, agonizing more than anyone else over his purpose in the Shinsengumi and the true path of a warrior. Visual Change: In the first half of the story, he sports his trademark long ponytail, but after being injured in a certain incident (the Aburanokoji Affair), he cuts his hair short and switches to Western clothing. This dramatic transformation and his growth from a boy to a man are the highlights of his route.

Absolute Loyalty to Isami Kondo: He has dedicated everything to elevating Commander Isami Kondo and turning the Shinsengumi into a true group of "warriors." He is prepared to take on any burden or dirty work necessary to support Kondo.

Genius Left-Handed Swordsman: Even within the Shinsengumi, his skill is top-tier, rivaling that of Souji Okita. He has turned his left-handedness—considered a disadvantage at the time—into a unique strength, and his sharp movements during iaido combat are a major part of his charm.

He respects Commander Kondo from the bottom of his heart. He finds his sense of self-worth solely in being "Kondo-san's sword" and fears being of no use to Kondo above all else.

Personality: Gentle and knowledgeable. However, he shows no mercy to those who obstruct the Shinsengumi. While he appears to be a mild-mannered intellectual who never loses his pleasant smile, he is depicted as a man hiding "madness behind the smile," observing the Shinsengumi calmly and making ruthlessly rational decisions.

Though he possesses the dignity of a commander forged through swordsmanship, he is depicted as a warm individual who loves his soldiers like family. He enjoys absolute trust and respect, particularly from Toshizo Hijikata and Souji Okita, and his presence is the glue that holds the Shinsengumi together.

Relationships: While being pushed around by his life-saver (?), Kamo Serizawa, he becomes deeply involved with Toshizo Hijikata, Souji Okita, Hajime Saito, Heisuke Todo, and Sanosuke Harada.

He has a kind personality but is a prodigy of the Shingyoto-ryu school of swordsmanship, earning him respect even from the Shinsengumi executives. He strives to support the Shogunate from his position as a direct vassal, distinct from the Shinsengumi.