Haku (Nigihayami Kohakunushi)

Boy who takes the form of a dragon

A boy who works at the bathhouse and takes the form of a dragon, a mysterious ally who helps Chihiro.

Quotes

  • "If you forget your name, you become that person's possession."
  • "Chihiro, you must never forget yourself."
  • "My name is Nigihayami Kohakunushi. Thank you for finding me."

Trivia

  • Haku's dragon is modeled after legendary dragons from Chinese mythology.
  • The loss of his name symbolizes the loss of identity.
  • Voice actor Miyu Irino's debut work was this film.
  • Haku is a character based on Japanese river god folklore.
  • The contract scene with Yubaba is a moment of high psychological tension.

Alternate names

Haku Nigihayami Kohakunushi Haku Dragon Boy

Tags

Profile

Species
Spirit / Dragon
Gender
Male

Appearance

Overall appearance
He can also take the form of a white dragon, but has the appearance of a human boy. Black hair and a cool expression are characteristic.
Height
About 160cm
Eye color
Brown
Hair color
Black
Distinguishing features
  • Dragon form
  • White scales
  • Sharp gaze
Iconic items
  • Kimono
  • Obi
  • Bathhouse uniform
  • Dragon form

Personality and abilities

Core personality
Sincere
Detailed personality
Loyal and never hesitates to help others. Reliable, calm, and composed, but occasionally shows emotions. Possesses deep compassion for Chihiro.
Keywords
  • Sense of justice
  • Loyalty
  • Wise
  • Calm
  • Compassion
Talents
  • Dragon transformation ability
  • Power to control water
  • Memory manipulation
  • Magic using ink
  • Flight
Skills
  • Navigating human society
  • Language comprehension
  • Negotiating magical contracts
Motivation
To protect Chihiro's safety and happiness and support her growth. To reclaim his true form and name.
Habits
Sometimes unconsciously uses a strong tone, but is gentle at heart.
Favorite foods
Unknown
Favorite places
Bathhouse, Riverside
Disliked situations
Having his name forgotten, Bondage or restrictions

History

Backstory
Originally a river god with the true name Nigihayami Kohakunushi. After being injured and receiving help from humans one time, he formed a connection with the human world and began working at the bathhouse. After trials such as nearly having his name stolen, he builds a strong bond with Chihiro and reclaims his name, achieving revival.
Debut date
July 20, 2001
Work title
Spirited Away
Media type
Movie

Meeting with Chihiro

Significant event
Meeting with Chihiro
Description
When Chihiro began working at the bathhouse, he helped her and started assisting her growth.

Name Crisis

Significant event
Name Crisis
Description
Nearly had his name stolen by Yubaba, but reclaimed his true name through his bond with Chihiro.

Final Farewell

Significant event
Final Farewell
Description
Bids farewell to return Chihiro to the real world, and sets off toward his own rebirth.

Relationships

Chihiro (Ogino Chihiro)

Best friend

The moment of saving Chihiro and having her tell him his name, forging their bond

Yubaba

Antagonist

The conflict where she tried to steal his name

Zeniba

Ally

As the one who provided aid to Chihiro

Bathhouse Staff

Bathhouse Staff: assistant

Media appearances

Spirited Away

Movie / Protagonist

2001 theatrical release

Voice cast and creators

Miyu Irino

Voice actor
Miyu Irino
Language
Japanese
Version or series
Theatrical version
Notes
Original

Jason Marsden

Voice actor
Jason Marsden
Language
English
Version or series
English dub

Hayao Miyazaki

Creator name
Hayao Miyazaki
Role
Original author

Studio Ghibli

Creator name
Studio Ghibli
Role
Animation studio

Related goods

Haku Figure

Item name
Haku Figure
Category
Figure
Availability
Regular

Haku Plush

Item name
Haku Plush
Category
Plush or doll
Availability
Limited