32 Iconic Anime Characters with Red Hair: Celebrating the Best Female Figures

Anime is renowned for its unique and imaginative presentation of characters, one of the most recognizable elements being their hair colors. In settings ranging from enchanting fantasy worlds to the ordinary lives of students, viewers frequently encounter characters with vivid hair hues like electric blue, pastel pink, and vibrant purple. Interestingly, many of these unusual colors are depicted as entirely natural, sparking intrigue and fascination among fans.

Among the spectrum of hair colors seen in anime, red stands out as one of the more believable choices. This fiery shade is often associated with hot-headed and impulsive characters. Below, we explore some of the most memorable and beloved female characters with red hair that every true anime aficionado will recognize.

New Possibilities for Red-Haired Characters

Updated January 7, 2024, by Mark Sammut: While red-haired anime characters are not overly common, the Winter 2025 anime season introduces several promising candidates, including Lu Shaotang from Sakamoto Days, Kusuri Yakuzen from 100 Girlfriends, Urmander from Headhunted to Another World, and Leticia Dorman from I Want to Escape from Princess Lessons. Each character would need a robust storyline to stand tall among their iconic predecessors.

1. Nena Trinity

From Gundam 00

Japanese Voice Actor: Rie Kugimiya

Initially, Nena Trinity and her brothers were perceived as valuable allies to the paramilitary faction Celestial Being, having rescued them in dire circumstances. However, their violent tendencies and thirst for chaos quickly turned them into liabilities, with Nena demonstrating notably cruel and impulsive behavior. This contributed significantly to the eventual formation of alliances against Celestial Being.

In the series’ second season, now under the guidance of Wang Liu Mei, Nena surfaces as a dangerous antagonist driven solely by self-interest, solidifying her position as one of the most infamous characters in the Gundam series.

2. Different

From Urusei Yatsura

Japanese Voice Actor: Yuko Mita (1981 series); Shizuka Ishigami (2022 series)

Benten is one of Lum’s childhood friends and a member of the mischievous Fukujin clan. Despite her limited screen time, her fiery personality and biker aesthetic have made her a standout character in the series.

She embodies the spirited and rebellious traits often associated with red-haired protagonists and adeptly utilizes her mix of charm and bravado to navigate various challenges.

3. Kushina Uzumaki

From Naruto

Japanese Voice Actor: Emi Shinohara

Kushina Uzumaki, the mother of Naruto, had a tumultuous past. Once the host for the Nine-Tails, she endured bullying due to her striking red hair, only to showcase her fiery temperament in retaliation. Her relationship with Minato Namikaze, who would become the Fourth Hokage, tempered her hot-headedness.

Though she has minimal screen time, Kushina’s influence on Naruto’s journey and development makes her a beloved character among fans.

4. Koume Sawaguchi

From Blue Seed

Japanese Voice Actor: Kotono Mitsuishi

Koume Sawaguchi is a spirited agent of the Terrestrial Administration Center (TAC), dedicated to combatting supernatural threats known as Aragami. Her brash behavior and preference for overwhelming firepower reflect her fierce personality, while also hiding a more sensitive side beneath the surface.

She plays an essential support role alongside main character Momiji Fujimiya, proving herself to be a formidable force in battle.

5. Ikuyo Kita

From Bocchi the Rock!

Kita So Bright – Bocchi The Rock Episode 10

Japanese Voice Actor: Ikumi Hasegawa

Since its debut in late 2022, Bocchi the Rock! has captured audiences, largely due to its lead, Hitori “Bocchi”Goto. However, her energetic friend and bandmate Ikuyo Kita also shines brightly.

Full of life and enthusiasm, Kita’s character contrasts sharply with Bocchi, helping to forge a strong bond while pursuing their musical aspirations together.

6. Shura Kirigakure

From Blue Exorcist

Japanese Voice Actor: Rina Sato

Shura Kirigakure serves as an Upper Class Exorcist for the True Cross Order. Initially sent with the task of surveilling the True Cross Academy for signs of demonic activity, Shura shifts her objective to mentoring Rin Okumura in controlling his powers, establishing a supportive relationship through shared experiences.

Her relaxed demeanor aligns with her role, but she possesses the necessary intensity when it comes to fulfilling her responsibilities.

7. You will be Boreas Greyrat

From Mushoku Tensei

Japanese Voice Actor: Ai Kakuma

Eris Boreas Greyrat, a cousin to Rudeus, shares a significant childhood bond with him. Their relationship is tested during their adventure on the Demon Continent, culminating in a misunderstanding that tears them apart for years.

Eris’ tomboyish nature is complemented by her formidable swordsmanship, alongside an intuitive fighting ability that belies her age.

8. Morgiana

From Magi: The Labyrinth Of Magic

Japanese Voice Actor: Haruka Tomatsu

Morgiana rises from a tortured past as a slave to become an exceptional fighter, showcasing her incredible strength and agility after being rescued by Alibaba and Aladdin. Despite her initial demeanor, shaped by her previous hardships, she gradually learns to express her emotions and embraces her friendships.

9. Tomo Aizawa

From Tomo-chan Is A Girl!

Japanese Voice Actor: Rie Takahashi

Tomo Aizawa is a lively and athletic tomboy harboring a deep crush on her childhood friend, Junichiro Kubota. Their friendship is marred by Jun’s inability to recognize her romantic feelings for him, which pushes Tomo to embrace a more feminine side.

As the plot unfolds, the series examines her journey of self-discovery while attempting to break through the wall between friendship and love.

10. Kanae Arima

From Oshi No Ko

Japanese Voice Actor: Megumi Han

Kana Arima rose to fame as a child actress but later struggled to recapture her earlier glory. Transformed by life’s challenges, Kana embodies humility and resilience as she navigates adolescence in the competitive world of entertainment.

Despite her past as a pampered child, this character works diligently to make her mark again, reflecting the core themes of perseverance and self-improvement.

11. Rika Nonaka

From Digimon Tamers

Japanese Voice Actor: Fumiko Orikasa

Rika Nonaka, known as Ruki Makino in Japan, is a standout character in Digimon Tamers, transitioning from a competitive player of the Digimon Card Game to a partner in her adventure with the Digimon Renamon.

Her initially abrasive personality evolves as the story unfolds, highlighting her journey towards empathy and understanding, driven by the bonds she forges with her friends.

12. Cutie Honey

From Cutie Honey

Japanese Voice Actor: Eiko Masuyama (original)

Cutie Honey, an iconic character who first appeared in 1973, is recognized as one of the pioneering female leads in shonen manga. An android heroine, she transforms into different forms to battle evil foes, thus parodying the magical girl genre.

Even decades later, Cutie Honey remains influential, inspiring reboots and adaptations while showcasing the abilities and complexities of female protagonists in anime.

13. Tia Noto Yoko

From Bastard!!

Manga Without Endings- Bastard!! Dark Schneider Yoko

Japanese Voice Actor: Yuka Koyama (1992 OVA), Tomori Kusunoki (2022 ONA)

Tia Noto Yoko is presented as the spirited and strong-willed daughter of the Great Priest Geo Noto Soto, along with being a childhood companion to Lucien Renlen. Her narrative becomes complicated when it intertwines with Dark Schneider’s reincarnation.

Her initial resistance eventually evolves into a complex relationship that showcases her strength in holding her own against Dark Schneider’s rampant affections.

14. Mercury insole

From Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury

Japanese Voice Actor: Kana Ichinose

Suletta Mercury makes her mark as the first female protagonist in the Gundam franchise, beginning as a socially awkward yet enthusiastic transfer student. Her growth throughout the series highlights her internal struggles juxtaposed with her remarkable prowess in piloting her mobile suit, Aerial.

15. Shirayuki

From Snow White with the Red Hair

Japanese Voice Actor: Saori Hayami

Shirayuki aspires to live a mundane life as an herbalist in the Kingdom of Tanbarun but is thrust into turmoil due to her stunning red hair attracting unwanted attention from Prince Raj. Her flight to the Kingdom of Clarines leads her to a life of friendship and self-discovery, showcasing her independence as she utilizes her skills to thrive.

16. Kagura

From Gintama

Japanese Voice Actor: Rie Kugimiya

As a central figure in Gintama, Kagura brings a blend of comedic antics and raw strength as a member of the Odd Jobs crew. Her Yato heritage provides her with extraordinary abilities, making her a formidable ally and friend, while her humorous side keeps the series lively.

17. Jonah

From Yona Of The Dawn

Japanese Voice Actor: Chiwa Saito

Yona, the sheltered princess of Kouka, faces a life-altering crisis when tragedy strikes her family, leading her to embark on an adventure to reclaim her kingdom aided by legendary allies. Her transformation from a pampered royal to a seasoned adventurer showcases her resilience and growth.

18. Hands

From Chainsaw Man

Japanese Voice Actor: Tomori Kusunoki

As the enigmatic leader of Public Safety Division 4, Makima illustrates the complexities of morality in a tumultuous world filled with devils. Her captivating yet disquieting presence draws others to her, making her one of the most intriguing figures in the series.

19. Shana

From Shakugan No Shana

Japanese Voice Actor: Rie Kugimiya

Shana serves as a Flame Haze, tasked with defeating the entities known as Denizens, who disrupt humanity’s existence. Her volatile nature and fierce determination evolve as she navigates her connection with Yuji Sakai, who holds a mysterious power.

20. Mereoleona Vermillion

From Black Clover

Mereoleona Vermillion grinning maliciously

Japanese Voice Actor: Junko Minagawa

Mereoleona Vermillion stands out as a fierce leader, showcasing her strength and commanding presence as the eldest daughter of House Vermillion. Her reluctance to participate in the Magic Knights highlights her independence and tenacity, ultimately leading her to take charge when needed.

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