Anko Kitashirakawa
Anko Kitashirakawa |
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| Kanji: | 北白川 あんこ |
| Romaji | Kitashirakawa Anko |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | 9 |
| Birthday: | May 4th |
| Height: | 130 cm (4’3″) |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Rina Hidaka |
| English: | Brittney Karbowski |
Anko Kitashirakawa (北白川 あんこ, Kitashirakawa Anko), is a supporting character in the anime Tamako Market. She is the younger sister of the series’ protagonist, Tamako Kitashirakawa, and is a fourth-grade elementary school student. Compared to her cheerful and somewhat airheaded sister, Anko is far more practical, mature, and fashion-conscious, often providing a contrast to the whimsical tone of the Kitashirakawa family.
Despite her young age, Anko is emotionally perceptive and cares deeply for her family and friends, often trying to balance her desire for independence with the warmth she feels toward those around her.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Anko lives with her family in the Usagiyama Shopping District, where they run the Tamagoyaki Kitashirakawa mochi shop. As the youngest member of the Kitashirakawa household, Anko often finds herself caught between her childish impulses and her desire to be seen as a mature young lady.
While she occasionally helps out at the family shop, she is more concerned with her social life and fashion. Her love for art and stylish clothing distinguishes her from the rest of her more traditional family. She sometimes feels embarrassed by their quirks, especially when they clash with her desire to appear “cool” in front of her friends or classmates.
Appearance
Anko is a small girl with long dark brown hair, typically tied in twin tails, and large expressive eyes. Her sense of fashion is quite modern for her age; she enjoys wearing cute and trendy outfits, and she has a taste for accessories and design. Her clothes often reflect her desire to stand out from the mochi-centric culture of her family.
Her well-groomed appearance and deliberate style choices underline her desire to grow up quickly and express individuality in a family full of tradition and nostalgia.
Personality
Anko is mature for her age, often acting as the voice of reason in her family. She can be blunt, especially with Tamako, but her words are usually well-intentioned. Despite her somewhat aloof exterior, she is affectionate and thoughtful, particularly when it comes to her family or close friends.
She shows a strong interest in fashion and art, and she dislikes being treated like a child. At times, she feels overshadowed by Tamako’s easygoing personality, but she never stops caring deeply for her sister. Anko also experiences the early pangs of young love, adding depth to her character as someone learning to navigate her emotions and identity.
Role in the Story
The Voice of Reason: Anko often provides a grounded perspective amidst the eccentric events of Tamako Market. Whether it’s Dera’s bizarre behavior or Tamako’s cluelessness, Anko is quick to point out when things are strange, offering a more modern and rational viewpoint.
Navigating Youth: Several episodes explore Anko’s childhood experiences, from crushes to awkward moments with friends and family. Her struggles with embarrassment, identity, and wanting to appear grown-up are relatable and endearing, portraying the innocence and complexity of growing up.
Family and Community: Though she tries to appear distant at times, Anko is shown to be deeply connected to her family and the shopping district. She supports Tamako in subtle ways and is often seen quietly appreciating the warmth of their close-knit community.
Relationships
Tamako Kitashirakawa: Anko’s older sister and the main protagonist. Though they often bicker or tease one another, Anko looks up to Tamako and values her sister’s warmth and optimism. Their sibling bond is portrayed as natural, playful, and loving.
Mochizō Ōji: Tamako’s childhood friend. Anko is aware of Mochizō’s crush on Tamako and occasionally teases both of them. She generally gets along well with him and sees him as part of the extended family dynamic in the shopping district.
Makino-kun: Anko develops a small crush on a classmate named Makino, offering a sweet subplot about her coming of age and emotional development.