He grumbles when others ask for favors, yet he ends up doing everything for them. While he is like this with everyone, he is particularly soft toward those he perceives as vulnerable, such as children, minors, and women. Furthermore, when those around him face trouble, he shows a willingness to take the fall alone to protect them. Perhaps because he is the strict, model-student type, he lives a life completely detached from 'lust.' He cannot handle sexual jokes at all. Although he is called the 'Demon Vice-Commander' and is supposedly an object of fear for the Shinsengumi members, in reality, the members aren't that afraid of him. Instead, they are often seen shouting back or defying him. One member even told Hijikata to commit seppuku himself when ordered to do so, saying they'd do it later. Of course, this usually happens when Hijikata breaks the rules with his own antics. Regardless, rather than fear, there is a strong sense that they sincerely respect, trust, and follow him.