Toshizō Hijikata was a real historical figure and the vice-commander of the Shinsengumi, an elite police force that fought to preserve the Tokugawa Shogunate during the Boshin War (1868–1869). After the defeat of the Shogunate forces, Hijikata was presumed dead in battle, but Golden Kamuy presents an alternate history, where he was secretly captured and imprisoned for decades.

After spending years as a political prisoner, Hijikata eventually escaped from Abashiri Prison, forming his own faction from the tattooed convicts. Unlike many of the other gold seekers, who chase power or wealth, Hijikata’s goal is ideological he wishes to rebuild Japan in the image of the old samurai rule, resisting the full westernization brought by the Meiji government.

His vast experience, strategic mind, and legendary combat skills make him one of the most formidable figures in the battle for the Ainu gold.

Hijikata is an elderly but incredibly strong man, with long silver hair, a mustache, and a sharp gaze that commands respect and fear. Despite his age, he maintains a powerful and imposing physique, demonstrating remarkable endurance and combat ability.

He typically wears a Western-style suit, reflecting his adaptation to the modern era, but his aura and demeanor remain that of a traditional samurai. His scarred face and intense expression serve as a reminder of his many battles and hardships.

Hijikata is a disciplined, intelligent, and relentless warrior, embodying the samurai code of Bushidō. Despite being considered a relic of the past, he refuses to accept defeat or abandon his ideals, believing that Japan has lost its way under the Meiji government.

He is extremely charismatic, capable of commanding absolute loyalty from his followers, even among the ruthless convicts who escaped Abashiri Prison. His leadership is fueled by a deep sense of purpose, as he sees the Ainu gold as the key to reviving the old samurai rule.

Though initially portrayed as a villain, Hijikata gradually becomes an anti-hero, showing moments of honor, wisdom, and even kindness. Unlike Tsurumi, who manipulates his subordinates, Hijikata truly believes in his cause and respects those who prove themselves worthy, even if they are his enemies.

Despite his age, Hijikata remains as deadly as ever, demonstrating exceptional swordsmanship and tactical brilliance in battle.

• Leader of the Abashiri Convicts
  Hijikata emerges as one of the most dangerous factions seeking the Ainu gold, leading a powerful group of escaped prisoners. Unlike many of the convicts, who seek personal gain, Hijikata’s ambition is far greater he wants to reshape Japan and restore the samurai way of life.

• Rivalry with Tokushirō Tsurumi
  One of Hijikata’s greatest rivals is Lieutenant Tsurumi, the leader of the 7th Division. Both men seek the gold but have opposing visions for the future of Japan Tsurumi wants to use it to create a breakaway military regime, while Hijikata wishes to rebuild Japan as a nation ruled by samurai ideals. Their strategic battles and power struggles are some of the most intense conflicts in the series.

• An Unlikely Ally to Sugimoto
  Though Hijikata starts as an antagonist, his relationship with Sugimoto and Asirpa evolves over time. As their goals align against greater threats, he temporarily joins forces with them, proving to be a formidable but honorable ally. However, his true loyalty remains to his own cause, meaning that an alliance with him is always temporary and fragile.

  Legendary Combat Skills
  Despite his advanced age, Hijikata remains an elite swordsman, capable of taking on much younger and stronger opponents with ease. His mastery of the blade and strategic mind make him one of the deadliest characters in the series, even when facing multiple enemies at once.