In the expansive universe of anime, characters often navigate perilous landscapes teeming with malevolent entities including killers, monsters, and even haunted spirits. One of the most pervasive dangers they encounter, however, transcends the realm of the living: ghosts.
These ethereal beings, victims of violence, illness, or tragedy, linger among the living, some retaining their humanity while others become mere vessels of torment. This spectral presence invites a notable response in anime—introducing a host of ghost hunters dedicated to tracking and vanquishing these elusive threats. Below, we explore some of the most iconic ghost hunters in anime history.
Updated on December 7, 2024, by Mark Sammut: With the conclusion of Fall 2024, it’s evident that the season did not feature any new ghost hunters. However, ‘Dandadan’ presents characters like Ken and Momo, who engage with spirits extensively, although they are not actively seeking them out. Similarly, ‘Natsume’s Book of Friends’, while rich in ghostly themes, showcases the gentle spirit of Natsume, who may not fit the mold of a traditional hunter.
For this feature, we’ve included two prominent ghost hunters from classic series, showcasing one character per series without ranking them by power or skill.
12 Tooru Muhyou
Muhyo & Roji’s Bureau of Supernatural Investigation
After a decade-long wait following its manga’s conclusion, ‘Muhyo & Roji’s Bureau of Supernatural Investigation’ emerged as a fan-favorite, securing two successful seasons. While its popularity outside Japan may be limited, the series offers an exciting blend of supernatural mystery, echoing other classics such as ‘Ghost Hunt’. The protagonist, Tooru Muhyo, is a forceful ghost hunter whose assertive method of restoring spiritual balance enhances the drama and excitement of the storyline.
11 Yakumo Saitou
Psychic Detective Yakumo
Though less prominent in modern discussions, ‘Psychic Detective Yakumo’ showcases a competent blend of supernatural investigation and narrative depth. The series follows Yakumo and his companion Haruka as they delve into a range of mysterious cases. Yakumo’s initial arrogance masks a deeper vulnerability, revealed as he navigates the complexities of ghostly encounters and strives to protect those around him.
10 Kuro Sakuragawa
In/Spectre
While ‘In/Spectre’ divided viewers due to its pacing, it remains a captivating watch with its supernatural mysteries blended with romantic elements. The protagonists, Kotoko and Kuro, engage with both spirits and humans, illustrating a unique duality. Though Kotoko assumes a neutral role as the Goddess of Wisdom, Kuro asserts his strength in confrontations with ghosts, acting as her protector in a world that necessitates balance between the living and the dead.
9 Guitar
GeGeGe no Kitaro
Kitaro stands as a legendary figure in anime ghost hunting, guiding viewers through whimsical and eerie adventures. The series ‘GeGeGe no Kitaro’ creatively blends elements of Japanese folklore with tales of spirits, emphasizing the coexistence of humans and supernatural beings. Fans enjoy entertaining narratives with diverse ghostly characters, making this series both educational and engaging.
8 Satoru Gojo
Jujutsu Kaisen
Regarded as one of the strongest jujutsu sorcerers, Satoru Gojo not only excels in exorcising curses but also plays a pivotal role in training the next generation of sorcerers. His character development impacts peers like Nobara Kugisaki, Yuji Itadori, and Megumi Fushiguro, establishing him as a cornerstone of ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’. Among its impressive roster of characters, Gojo distinctly embodies the essence of a powerful ghost hunter.
7 Yayoi Hozuki
Dark Gathering
Among newer entries in the genre, Yayoi Hozuki shines as a formidable yet endearing ghost hunter in ‘Dark Gathering’. Her tactical intellect and drive to rescue her mother’s spirit from the malicious ghost Kuubo illustrate her depth and moral compass, making her a sympathetic but fierce character within this supernatural narrative.
6. Ginko
Mushi-shi
‘Mushi-shi’ holds a significant place in the annals of anime, with Ginko as its wise and amiable protagonist. He travels across Japan, addressing Mushi-related dilemmas—a type of spirit that interacts uniquely with the world. While Ginko doesn’t primarily hunt Mushi, his interventions during supernatural events highlight his role as a guiding force in the narrative.
5 Mikami
Ghost Sweeper Mikami
Mikami, the charismatic leader of a ghost-exorcising agency in ‘Ghost Sweeper Mikami’, embodies style and proficiency. Her escapades in a fictional Japan, where spirits and the living often clash, present opportunities for humor and unique ghost experiences, making this series a delightful watch for fans of the genre.
4 Kazuya Shibuya
Ghost Hunt
‘Ghost Hunt’ delivers on its promise with a riveting character in Kazuya, who leads the charge in unraveling supernatural phenomena. Logical yet receptive to the mysteries of the unknown, Kazuya serves as the main ghost hunter, determined to liberate souls from the grip of nefarious spirits, making for a suspenseful narrative.
3 Mob
Mob Psycho 100
Renowned for its unique artistic style, ‘Mob Psycho 100’ brings viewers through the experiences of Mob, a young boy with immense psychic abilities. While Mob’s gullibility leads to moments of humor amidst ghost-hunting challenges, his journey personifies the complexities of power dynamics in supernatural confrontations.
2. Yusuke Urameshi
Yu Yu Hakusho
As a beloved classic, ‘Yu Yu Hakusho’ features Yusuke Urameshi, a teenage delinquent turned Spirit Detective. His resurrection spurs a journey filled with thrilling encounters and a chance for personal growth. With his iconic Spirit Gun, Yusuke captures fans’ hearts, proving to be a multifaceted ghost hunter in the epic narrative.
1 The Medicine Seller
Mononoke
At the heart of ‘Mononoke’ is an enigmatic figure known as the Medicine Seller, who is adept at recognizing and eliminating spirits by leveraging his knowledge of the supernatural. The series is praised for its Art Nouveau aesthetic and intricate storytelling, positioning the Medicine Seller as not only a formidable ghost hunter but also a captivating character that lingers in the minds of viewers.
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