Tsuruko is a young woman of average height with a slim build. She has straight, mid-length dark blue hair that is typically worn down but is occasionally styled in a ponytail. Her bangs are swept to the right side, framing her green eyes. Tsuruko is often seen wearing red, rimless bottom glasses and a watch with a brown strap on her left wrist. She occasionally accessorizes with a pendant featuring a blue, oval gemstone.

Her usual school attire consists of a short-sleeved white collared shirt paired with a red tie. Over this, she wears a dark blue, button-up V-neck tank top adorned with an insignia. Her outfit is completed by a dark blue skirt, mid-calf dark blue socks, and brown shoes.

As a child, Tsuruko had short hair with a small ahoge on the left side of her head. Her youthful attire included a red, sleeveless collared top with a yellow bow, a white skirt, and brown sandals. During this time, she did not wear glasses.

Tsuruko is a highly serious, logical, and analytical individual, often serving as the voice of reason within her friend group. She tends to be critical of others, especially Naruko “Anaru” Anjou, whom she scolds for her tendency to follow others without forming her own opinions. Tsuruko’s reserved demeanor masks her deeper insecurities and complex emotions, particularly regarding Meiko “Menma” Honma’s return. She feels indifferent about Meiko’s intentions, doubting whether she has truly forgiven everyone.

Tsuruko harbors unspoken feelings for Atsumu “Yukiatsu” Matsuyuki but believes she cannot compete with Meiko for his affection. She openly confesses to Naruko that she loves Atsumu but feels like she can only be a “replacement” for Naruko if Atsumu ever moves on. Despite this, she remains deeply loyal to him, aiding in the group’s effort to help Meiko achieve nirvana, recognizing Atsumu’s need for closure. Tsuruko is aware of his guilt over Meiko’s death and suspects that his crossdressing as Meiko is a way of coping with his unresolved emotions. Her artistic nature is evident as she often sketches in her idle time, even drawing Atsumu wearing Meiko’s sundress as a reflection of her inner thoughts.

Academically, Tsuruko is highly capable and attends the same elite high school as Atsumu, where she is ranked fourth in her class. However, she struggles to keep up with his natural academic excellence, acknowledging that she has to work much harder to maintain her position. This dynamic underscores her feelings of inferiority and her admiration for Atsumu.

Her bond with Atsumu is both deep and complicated. They are often mistaken for a couple by classmates and strangers due to how frequently they are seen together. While Tsuruko harbors resentment over Atsumu’s inability to let go of Meiko, she also supports him as a confidant and guide. She keeps the hairpin Atsumu discarded after his rejection by Meiko, cherishing it as a symbol of her feelings for him. Tsuruko eventually cuts her hair, symbolizing her acceptance of her past and her desire to embrace the present while honoring her childhood memories.

In the series’ conclusion, Tsuruko and Atsumu are seen opening up to each other, signaling a potential step forward in their relationship. She wears the hairpin Atsumu gave her, marking a subtle but meaningful shift in their dynamic.

Chiriko (知利子):

Nickname: Tsuruko (鶴子):

Surname: Tsurumi (鶴見):