by Sakonji Urokodaki from Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba has been voted the No. 1 “ideal elderly character” in Anime! Anime!’s 2026 reader survey, beating last year’s winner Otose from Gintama. Tomozo Sakura from Chibi Maruko-chan, Hoshiko from Dandadan, Toshizo Hijikata from Golden Kamuy, and Monkey D. Garp from ONE PIECE shared third place.
Respect for the Aged Day was observed in Japan on September 21, 2026. The national holiday is held to express appreciation for older people and celebrate longevity. It was originally observed on September 15, but it is now celebrated on the third Monday of September.
Anime and manga are filled with memorable older characters. Some serve as mentors who pass their knowledge to the next generation, while others remain powerful fighters long after their younger years. There are also grandfather and grandmother characters whose greatest strength is their kindness, wisdom, humor, or unconditional support for younger characters.
To mark Respect for the Aged Day, Japanese anime news outlet Anime! Anime! conducted its annual reader survey asking: “Who is your ideal elderly character?” The 2026 survey was conducted from September 10 to September 16, with responses coming from a nearly even gender split. Around 20% of respondents were in their 20s, while approximately 35% were in their 30s.
The results produced a wide variety of characters, ranging from loving grandparents and experienced mentors to legendary warriors and characters whose appearances do not necessarily match their actual ages.
Sakonji Urokodaki Takes the No. 1 Spot
- Sakonji Urokodaki — Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
The top spot went to Sakonji Urokodaki, the former Water Hashira of the Demon Slayer Corps and an important mentor in the early story of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.
Urokodaki received approximately 8% of the votes, moving up from third place in the previous survey to No. 1 in 2026.
For beginners, Urokodaki is the masked older man who lives at the foot of Mount Sagiri and trains Tanjiro Kamado after Tanjiro begins his journey as a Demon Slayer. He teaches Tanjiro the fundamentals of swordsmanship and Water Breathing before sending him toward the Final Selection.
One of Urokodaki’s most recognizable features is his red tengu mask, which hides his face throughout much of his appearance in the story. Despite his intimidating appearance and extremely strict teaching style, he is deeply compassionate toward his students.
His relationship with Tanjiro is particularly important. Urokodaki pushes Tanjiro to improve rather than simply comforting him, but his strictness comes from genuine concern. His painful memories of losing previous students also explain why he is so protective of the young Demon Slayers he trains.
Reader comments highlighted the contrast between his strict lessons and his caring personality. Some respondents remembered the famous early scene in which Urokodaki harshly criticizes Tanjiro’s slow decision-making, while others pointed to his emotional fear of seeing more children die.
This combination of discipline, experience, responsibility, and kindness appears to be a major reason Urokodaki connected with voters.
Why Urokodaki stands out
Urokodaki represents one of the most recognizable types of elderly anime characters: the experienced mentor.
He does not need to constantly demonstrate his strength. Instead, his influence can be seen through the younger characters he trains. Tanjiro’s development is closely connected to the lessons Urokodaki gives him, making the character important even when he is not physically present in the main action.
There is also a current Demon Slayer connection. The complete TV anime series began a full rebroadcast in Japan on April 5, 2026, starting with the Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc and continuing through the TV anime series. The official rebroadcast project also features Urokodaki among the characters being revisited by viewers.
That renewed exposure may have helped introduce Urokodaki to newer viewers while reminding longtime fans why the character remains memorable.
Otose Takes Second Place in the 2026 Survey
- Otose — Gintama
Otose from Gintama placed second with approximately 6% of the votes. She was No. 1 in the previous survey, meaning she moved down one position this year.
Otose is the owner of Snack Otose in Kabuki District and one of the people who provides Gintoki Sakata with a place to live and work. She is tough, outspoken, en and often intimidating, but underneath that personality is someone who cares deeply about the people around her.
Her relationship with Gintoki is particularly memorable. She gives him a place on the second floor of her establishment, and over time, the people connected to her become something of an unconventional family.
That combination of humor and warmth was repeatedly mentioned by voters.
Fans also pointed to Otose’s ability to give people a place where they belong. Although she can be rough around the edges, she frequently demonstrates strong loyalty and compassion when the people around her are in trouble.
Otose’s latest anime-related update
There is also a timely Gintama connection in September 2026. The movie New Gintama the Movie: Yoshiwara in Flames is returning to Japanese theaters on September 25 as the “Super Inferno Version” (Chō Enjō-ban).
The special version contains more than 200 refined animation cuts, improving details such as character expressions, textures, action, camera work,ork and lighting. The story itself remains the same, and the special version does not add new scenes, change the audio, or alter the runtime.
Otose is part of the movie’s returning cast, giving fans another opportunity to see one of Gintama’s most recognizable older characters on the big screen.
Four Characters Share Third Place
The 2026 survey produced a four-way tie for third place. Tomozo Sakura, Hoshiko, Toshizo Hijikata and Monkey D. Garp all received the same number of votes.
- Tomozo Sakura — Chibi Maruko-chan
Tomozo Sakura, Maruko’s grandfather in Chibi Maruko-chan, is one of the most recognizable elderly family characters in Japanese anime.
Unlike Urokodaki and some of the other characters on this list, Tomozo’s appeal does not come from fighting ability. Instead, he is known for his affectionate relationship with Maruko.
He frequently spoils his granddaughter, supports her ideas, and sometimes becomes involved in her silly plans. His playful personality gives him a special place in the Sakura family.
Another famous part of his character is “Tomozo, Heart’s Haiku,” in which he expresses his feelings through humorous haiku.
One survey respondent specifically praised Tomozo for being the kind of grandfather who will enthusiastically join his granddaughter’s activities rather than simply watching from the sidelines.
For many viewers, Tomozo represents the ideal of a warm, playful, and affectionate grandfather.
- Hoshiko — Dandadan
Another third-place character is Hoshiko, Momo Ayase’s grandmother in Dandadan.
Hoshiko is far from the stereotypical quiet grandmother. She is outspoken, confident, and highly experienced in dealing with supernatural phenomena.
She also works as a spiritual medium under the name Santa Dodoria, and her knowledge of ghosts, spirits, and other supernatural threats makes her an important source of guidance for Momo and Okarun.
Despite her age, Hoshiko remains active and fearless. Her youthful appearance and energetic personality also create much of her comedic appeal.
Her character demonstrates another reason older characters are so popular in anime: age does not necessarily mean becoming passive. Hoshiko remains directly involved in dangerous situations and uses her experience to protect the younger generation.
Dandadan Season 3 update
The Dandadan anime is scheduled to return with Season 3 in 2027, with Science SARU continuing as the animation studio. The official announcement also introduced a new teaser visual featuring Momo, Okarun, Turbo Granny,y and a mysterious girl emerging from an alien creature.
Hoshiko is part of the confirmed returning cast for Season 3, with Nana Mizuki continuing as her voice actress.
- Toshizo Hijikata — Golden Kamuy
Toshizo Hijikata from Golden Kamuy also shared third place.
The character is based on the historical Hijikata Toshizo, the famous vice-commander of the Shinsengumi. Golden Kamuy reimagines him as an elderly but extremely capable warrior who becomes involved in the race for the hidden gold in Hokkaido.
Within the story, Hijikata is more than 70 years old, yet his swordsmanship remains formidable.
His relationship with protagonist Saichi Sugimoto is especially interesting. The two can be opponents in one situation and allies in another, creating an unpredictable relationship throughout the story.
Hijikata represents the “age-defying warrior” type of elderly anime character. Rather than retiring from dangerous situations, he continues pursuing his ambitions and refuses to let his age define him.
Golden Kamuy final chapter update
The Golden Kamuy anime is heading toward its final major storyline. The official website has announced the “Runaway Train Arc” (Bōsō Ressha-hen) for winter, describing it as the final climax of the anime adaptation and the beginning of the story’s ultimate confrontation.
This makes Hijikata’s appearance in the 2026 survey particularly timely for fans following the anime’s final stage.
- Monkey D. Garp — ONE PIECE
The fourth character sharing third place is Monkey D. Garp from ONE PIECE.
Garp is the grandfather of Monkey D. Luffy and one of the most famous Marines in the series. He holds the rank of Vice Admiral and is known as the “Hero of the Marines.”
His legendary reputation comes from his long history of fighting powerful pirates, including his famous rivalry with Pirate King Gol D. Roger.
Garp’s appeal as an elderly character comes from more than his physical strength. He is also a mentor figure who has trained younger Marines and influenced several important characters.
At the same time, his family relationships reveal a softer and more complicated side. Garp’s position as a Marine often conflicts with his feelings for Luffy and other members of his family.
That mixture of strength, humor, mentorship,ip and family loyalty makes Garp one of the most memorable older characters in modern anime.
Other Elderly Anime Characters Who Received Votes
The survey was not limited to grandparents.
One of the interesting aspects of the 2026 results is the variety of reasons readers chose their favorite elderly characters. Some were admired because they cared for grandchildren, while others were respected for mentoring younger people, fighting despite their age, or simply bringing warmth and humor to their respective stories.
Kanpei Shinonome — The Demon Bride
Kanpei Shinonome was praised for his relationship with Yuzu.
A reader highlighted how he genuinely cares for her and goes out of his way to protect her. One example mentioned in the survey was his effort to buy Yuzu a birthday dress despite being unfamiliar with stores aimed at younger people.
His actions demonstrate that being a loving grandfather is not just about affection—it can also mean taking difficult steps to protect someone you love.
Sullivan — Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun
Sullivan is another famous grandfather figure, although his situation is considerably more unusual.
He adores Iruma as if he were his biological grandson, but his role is not limited to spoiling him. He also acts as Iruma’s guardian, helps him enter the demon wo,rld and encourages his personal growth.
For fans, Sullivan represents the idea of an elderly guardian who creates a safe environment while still allowing a younger person to grow independently.
Tommy — Ojarumaru
Tommy, whose real name is Fumio Tamura, is Kazuma’s grandfather in Ojarumaru.
He is gentle and friendly toward the young characters around him and is portrayed as a remarkably talented person. He can create mechanical dolls, play musical instruments, ents and enjoy activities with old friends.
His stylish personality and relaxed approach to life make him a very different kind of elderly character from powerful fighters such as Garp or Hijikata.
Ginnosuke Nohara — Crayon Shin-chan
Ginnosuke Nohara, Shin-chan’s grandfather from his father’s side, also received votes.
He lives in Akita Prefecture and is known for his cheerful, carefree personality. Although he often behaves casually, his affection for his family is clear.
His relationship with Shin-chan is especially warm because they live far apart, giving their reunions an added emotional element.
Ginnosuke also appears in the currently released Crayon Shin-chan movie “Strange and Mysterious! My Yokai Vacation,” where his interactions with Shin-chan are part of the story.
Why Are Elderly Characters So Popular in Anime?
The 2026 survey highlights something interesting about anime storytelling: older characters are not limited to a single role.
Some are mentors. Others are grandparents. Some are warriors, teachers, spiritual experts, scientists, or guardians. Their personalities can be serious, funny, eccentric, powerful, or incredibly kind.
- They pass experience to the next generation.n
Characters such as Urokodaki demonstrate how older characters can shape the heroes who come after them.
Their importance is sometimes indirect. They may not be the main protagonist, but the lessons they teach continue influencing the story.
- They can combine strength with wisdom. om
Characters like Garp and Hijikata demonstrate that physical ability does not necessarily disappear simply because a character is older.
Their age can actually make their presence more impressive because viewers understand that their abilities come from decades of experience.
- They provide emotional support.
Tomozo, Sullivan,n and Ginnosuke show another side of aging characters. They are important because they provide emotional security to younger characters.
Their greatest contribution is often not winning a battle but making another character feel loved and protected.
- They add humor
Otose, Hoshiko, and Tomozo are also examples of characters whose age is part of their comedy.
Rather than being portrayed as fragile or helpless, they can be loud, stubborn, energetic, and sometimes more chaotic than the younger characters around them.
- Anime can play with age itself.f
The survey also includes characters who challenge ordinary expectations about aging.
Some characters look old despite being younger than expected, while others look surprisingly youthful despite having lived for decades or even centuries.
That flexibility allows anime creators to use age as both a storytelling tool and a source of humor.
All 49 Characters Who Received Votes
Anime! Anime! also published the complete list of characters who received at least one vote. The list demonstrates just how broad the definition of an “ideal elderly character” can be in anime and games.
- Sakonji Urokodaki — Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
- Otose — Gintama
- Tomozo Sakura — Chibi Maruko-chan
- Hoshiko — Dandadan
- Toshizo Hijikata — Golden Kamuy
- Monkey D. Garp — ONE PIECE
- Angus McBadger — The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad
- Edward Newgate — ONE PIECE
- Kaseki — Dr. STONE
- Masazo Saito — Grandpa and Grandma Turn Young Again
- Grandpa — Zettai Zetsumei Dangerous Grandpa
- Silvers Rayleigh — ONE PIECE
- Hajime Shinjō — Laid-Back Camp
- Son Goku — Dragon Ball
- Master Asia — Mobile Fighter G Gundam
- Yukichi Fukuzawa — Bungo Stray Dogs
- Isaac Netero — HUNTER×HUNTER
- Dr. Einstein — Curious George
- Doman Ashiya — I Started as a Teacher at a Yokai School!
- Alm-Onji — Heidi, Girl of the Alps
- Namihei Isono — Sazae-san
- Ebata — The Quintessential Quintuplets
- Heiji Okawa Uzumasa — Nintama Rantaro
- Professor Oak — Pokémon
- Juzo Okita — Space Battleship Yamato
- Yuzo Katakura — Mermaid’s Season
- Ganondorf — The Legend of Zelda
- Torajiro Kirishima — The Yuzuki Family’s Four Sons
- Genkai — Yu Yu Hakusho
- Cologne — Ranma 1/2
- Kumagoro Saiki — The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.
- Kotake Sakura — Chibi Maruko-chan
- Sullivan — Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun
- Kanpei Shinonome — The Demon Bride
- Joseph Joestar — JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
- Mamoru Sekoma — Medalist
- Sonoyama Couple — Migi & Dali
- Elder Omui — Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies
- Tommy — Ojarumaru
- Ginnosuke Nohara — Crayon Shin-chan
- Kaoruko Hanasaki — HeartCatch PreCure!
- Kouzou Fuyutsuki — Neon Genesis Evangelion
- Prince Kamehame — Kinnikuman
- Belian Clayan — The Devil Butler and the Black Cat
- Tatsuo Miyamura — Ryū to Ichigo
- Medama Oyaji — GeGeGe no Kitaro
- Mordea Gardenant — The Old Man from the Countryside Becomes a Sword Saint
- Yupa — Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
- Old Rudeus — Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation
Anime! Anime! notes that the survey attracted votes for characters who are not necessarily conventional grandparents. The complete list includes mentors, warriors, teachers, guardians, and characters whose apparent age differs significantly from their actual age.
What Makes Urokodaki Different From the Other Characters?
The 2026 results contain several different interpretations of what makes an elderly character admirable.
Urokodaki represents the mentor.
Otose represents the tough but caring guardian.
Tomozo represents the affectionate grandfather.
Hoshiko represents the experienced supernatural expert.
Hijikata represents the veteran warrior who refuses to surrender his ambition.
Garp represents the legendary older fighter and complicated family man.
That variety is arguably one of the most interesting aspects of the survey. There is no single personality type that defines the “ideal elderly character.”
Instead, these characters show different ways of growing older while remaining important to the people around them.
For younger characters, an elderly mentor can provide knowledge. For families, a grandparent can provide affection. For a community, an older character can become a source of wisdom or stability. And in action anime, an older warrior can prove that experience itself can be a form of power.
The 2026 “Who is your ideal elderly character?” survey gives Sakonji Urokodaki the top spot, following his rise from third place in the previous edition. Otose remains close behind, while Tomozo Sakura, Hoshiko, Toshizo Hijikata and Monkey D. Garp share third place.
Urokodaki’s victory is especially fitting because his character embodies one of the strongest themes associated with older anime characters: experience being passed to the next generation.
He may be strict, but his actions come from years of experience and a desire to protect his students. That balance between discipline and compassion is exactly what makes him such an enduring mentor figure in Demon Slayer.
At the same time, the rest of the ranking shows that fans appreciate many different qualities in older characters—from Otose’s loyalty and Tomozo’s affection to Hoshiko’s spiritual expertise, Hijikata’s determination and Garp’s legendary strength.
With 49 characters receiving votes, the survey also demonstrates how diverse elderly characters have become across anime, manga and games. They are no longer simply background grandparents. They can be heroes, mentors, warriors, guardians, comic relief characters, teachers,s and some of the most powerful people in their worlds.
And that may be the biggest takeaway from the 2026 survey: age is not what defines these characters. Their experiences relationshipsi, ty and influence on the next generation are what make them memorable.
