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The 7 best anime starring Yakuza characters

Yakuza is a very familiar word to Japanese enthusiasts, including anime fans. The sleek suits, heavily tattooed bodies, and sleek hair are what we imagine of the Yakuza. Yakuza culture gives it its own allure compared to other criminal organizations in the world. And it will always be interesting.

Despite being criminal organizations, the Yakuza have positive effects on Japanese society. They are known for providing relief in times of disaster, giving them a positive reputation in Japan.

Their strong influence on Japanese culture also makes them frequently referenced in anime, manga, and films. When it comes to anime, there aren't many Yakuza anime. Here, I'll give you some recommendations for anime starring Yakuza characters, whether the boss, subordinates, or the leader's heir.

1. Hinamatsuri

A mid-level Yakuza named Yoshifumi Nitta finds his life thrown into chaos after a girl fell headfirst into a strange object. The girl, Hina, is actually from the future, and with her telekinetic powers, she forces Nitta to let her live with him.

Nita suddenly takes on the role of her father, and Hina adopts Nitta as her family name. The problem is that she tends to lose control of herself, wreaking havoc around her and dragging Yoshifumi into trouble. Her dangerous life begins, and more people become involved in her problems.

This will be a comedic story about a young Yakuza caring for an unknown girl with overwhelming power. We'll be treated to some decent comedy as the story progresses. The touching moments between the two and the growth of their bond over time are also enjoyable to watch.

Release date: April 6, 2018
Studio: Feel

2. The Way of the Househusband (Gokushufudo)

A moving story of a former Yakuza who decided to focus his life on taking on the responsibility of being a full-time housewife. A legendary and feared Yakuza named Tatsu, known as The Immortal Dragon, has retired from the Yakuza and supports his career wife.

Interesting. That would be the first thing you'd think of in this series. We'll see a former Yakuza begin to dedicate his life to his family, cooking, and shopping. The series portrays a variety of comedic scenarios packed into a short, fast-paced schedule.

Release date: April 8, 2021
Studio: JCStaff

3. Gokusen

A wonderful series about Kumiko Yamaguchi, the granddaughter of a Yakuza boss who dreams of becoming a teacher. Since she was a child, she has lived with her grandfather, the boss of the Yakuza group. Because there are no other descendants, Kumiko is next in line to lead the family business.

It's not an easy feat, but she still manages to lead the yakuza and do her job as a teacher in a class full of delinquents. Of course, she must keep her identity hidden from the public. Kumiko, as an idealist, will teach her students not only academics but also life lessons.

A life full of experience as a teacher who gives everything to her students and as heiress to the Kuroda Family Yakuza clan packed with comical situations.

Release date: January 7, 2002
Studio: Madhouse

4. Back Street Girls -GOKUDOLS-

It's not a yakuza anime like you might expect, but it still counts. GOKUDOLS is an anime where three yakuza underlings are forced to become 'female' idols after their major failure. They are given the choice of committing seppuku or going to Thailand for sex reassignment surgery, and they choose the latter. This is where Kentaro, Ryo, and Kazuhiko begin their idol careers as Airi, Mari, and Chika in Gokudols. Despite their beautiful appearance, their hearts are still Yakuza, and their brotherhood is still strong. This is a comedy full of rude words and will have you laughing the entire show.

Release date: July 4, 2018
Studio: JCStaff

5. Nisekoi

A romance anime about the Yakuza, the son of a Yakuza leader and the daughter of the rival gang boss, Raku Ichijo and Chitoge Kirisaki. To maintain peace between the two gangs, Raku and Chitoge become involved in family matters, resulting in the two becoming a "fake" couple. This is what he must do when he's actually hiding his feelings for the girl he has a crush on, Kasuki Onodera. Nisekoi is a fairly enjoyable and entertaining show, despite the generic romance. It also offers good comedy, and the cute moments surrounding the characters are one of the reasons you should watch it.

Release date: January 11, 2014
Studio: Shaft

6. Twittering Birds Never Fly ~The Clouds Gather~

A BL anime film about the masochistic yakuza boss, Yashiro, who develops an attraction to his new bodyguard, Chikara Doumeki. Twittering Birds Never Fly ~The Clouds Gather~ may not be an anime that all fans can enjoy. But beyond the BL element, it delivers a good plot with deep stories full of life lessons. Just a warning: you must be mature enough to watch this anime.

Release date: February 15, 2020
Studio: Grizzly

7. The Yakuza's Guide to Babysitting

A new Yakuza anime we'll be enjoying in 2022. It's about Kirishima Toru, a right-hand man in the Sakuragi yakuza crime family. He's known by his violent and well-known nickname, "The Demon of Sakuragi." Until one day, his boss tasks him with becoming the caretaker of his only daughter, Yaeka. This begins the exciting life of the two, who spend time together.