Rei is a slender young man with a pale complexion and a slightly awkward posture, reflecting his introverted nature. He has messy black hair that often falls into his glasses, framing his sharp yet melancholic eyes. Rei’s expression often carries a hint of sadness or unease, highlighting his internal struggles.

His usual attire consists of casual clothing, such as sweaters, button-down shirts, and jackets, which further emphasize his understated and reserved personality. While at school, he wears a standard uniform, but his casual style reflects his preference for comfort and simplicity.

Rei is introspective, reserved, and deeply contemplative, often reflecting on his own life and the relationships around him. Despite his quiet exterior, he is profoundly empathetic and kind-hearted, traits that gradually surface as he forms meaningful connections with others. Rei’s inner struggles with self-worth, loneliness, and the pressures of professional shogi create a poignant and relatable narrative, showcasing his emotional depth and complexity.

At the start of the series, Rei is emotionally detached, distancing himself from others to avoid being a burden. However, his interactions with the Kawamoto family and his growing friendships with other shogi players gradually help him open up and confront his insecurities. Rei’s journey is one of self-discovery, healing, and finding a sense of belonging.

Shogi Career: Rei’s status as a teenage professional shogi player serves as both a source of pride and a burden. He is widely lauded in the shogi community for his talent, but this recognition comes with immense pressure and feelings of inadequacy. Shogi is both a refuge and a source of stress for Rei, as his matches often mirror his internal struggles. Through his growth as a player, Rei learns to find balance between his passion for the game and his emotional well-being.

Relationship with the Kawamoto Family: Rei’s relationship with the Kawamoto sisters—Akari, Hinata, and Momo—forms the heart of the series. Initially reluctant to grow close to them due to his fear of attachment, Rei gradually becomes a cherished part of their family. Their warmth and kindness provide him with a sense of stability and acceptance, helping him heal from his emotional scars. In turn, Rei becomes a source of support for the Kawamoto sisters, particularly Hinata, as they face their own challenges.

Personal Growth: Rei’s journey is marked by his gradual acceptance of his vulnerabilities and the importance of human connection. Through his struggles with loneliness, self-doubt, and loss, Rei begins to find purpose beyond shogi, embracing the relationships and experiences that shape his identity.

• Kawamoto Family: The Kawamoto sisters Akari, Hinata, and Momo become a surrogate family for Rei. Their warmth and acceptance help him navigate his emotional struggles and provide him with a sense of belonging.

• Kyoko Kōda: Rei’s adoptive sister and a complex figure in his life. Their strained relationship reflects Rei’s troubled past with his adoptive family.

• Other Shogi Players: Rei’s interactions with fellow players, such as Harunobu Nikaidō and Kai Shimada, play a significant role in his growth as both a player and a person. Their camaraderie and rivalry challenge Rei to push himself while fostering meaningful friendships.

Rei Kiriyama’s story in March Comes in Like a Lion is a profound exploration of resilience, identity, and the healing power of human connection. His journey from isolation to belonging resonates deeply with audiences, offering a heartfelt portrayal of overcoming adversity and finding meaning in life’s relationships and passions. As the emotional core of the series, Rei’s character leaves a lasting impact, making him a beloved and unforgettable protagonist.