
Ryu Yamada
Ryu Yamada |
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Kanji | 山田 竜 |
Rōmaji | Yamada Ryū |
Age: | 17 |
Birthday: | August 31,1995 |
Height: | 177cm (5’9) |
Voice Actor | |
Japanese | Ryōta Ōsaka |
English | Newton Pittman |
Ryu Yamada (山田 竜, Yamada Ryū), is the titular character and main protagonist of the anime and manga series Yamada-kun to 7-nin no Majo (Yamada-kun and the Seven Witches). Initially introduced as a delinquent with a short temper and a knack for getting into trouble, Yamada’s life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers a mysterious supernatural power: the ability to switch bodies with others through a kiss. This phenomenon leads him to uncover the existence of seven witches at his school, each with a unique magical ability.
Though Yamada starts as a misunderstood outcast, his involvement with the witches and his growing relationships with his classmates especially with Urara Shiraishi reveal his more compassionate, determined, and loyal side. As the story unfolds, Yamada evolves from a solitary troublemaker to the emotional anchor of a close-knit group, all while unraveling the secrets behind the witches’ powers and their connection to the school’s forgotten history.
Background

Appearance in anime
Ryu Yamada attends Suzaku High School, where he is infamous for his aggressive demeanor and poor academic performance. Frequently involved in fights and seen as a delinquent, Yamada struggles with both his reputation and his own self-worth. His daily routine of boredom and suspension changes dramatically when he accidentally falls down the stairs with top student Urara Shiraishi, resulting in the two of them switching bodies through an unintended kiss.
This incident marks the beginning of Yamada’s involvement with the supernatural. Alongside Urara and members of the student council and supernatural studies club, he begins investigating the body-switching phenomenon, which turns out to be linked to the powers of the Seven Witches. Throughout his journey, Yamada discovers more about himself, forms deep friendships, and eventually uncovers a forgotten past that ties him to the magical events at school.
Appearance
Yamada has a slightly unkempt appearance typical of a delinquent. He sports spiky dark blue hair, sharp blue eyes, and frequently wears his school uniform with the tie loosened and jacket open, giving off a rebellious vibe. His posture and expressions often convey impatience or irritation, but as the series progresses, he’s seen more relaxed and expressive, especially when interacting with his friends.
Despite his tough exterior, Yamada has a naturally attractive look that often surprises characters once they get past his reputation. His expressions soften particularly around Urara, revealing a more gentle and sincere side.
Personality
At first glance, Yamada is abrasive, foul-mouthed, and short-tempered, often getting into fights and slacking off in class. However, underneath this rough persona lies a surprisingly empathetic and determined individual. He is deeply loyal, protective of his friends, and has a strong sense of justice even if it sometimes gets him into trouble.
Yamada’s emotional intelligence improves as he interacts with the witches and unravels their personal struggles. His persistence and sincerity earn the trust of even the most guarded characters. Despite his reputation, Yamada rarely hesitates to help others, even if it means risking his own well-being. Over time, he matures into a dependable leader, able to navigate the emotional complexities of the people around him while remaining true to himself.
Role in the Story
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The Accidental Body Switch
Yamada’s journey begins when he accidentally kisses Urara Shiraishi, the school’s top student, and finds himself in her body. This leads to the discovery of a supernatural power unique to the witches of Suzaku High. Intrigued and bewildered, Yamada joins forces with Urara and members of the student council to investigate the phenomenon. -
Gathering the Seven Witches
As Yamada dives deeper into the mystery, he learns that there are seven witches, each possessing a different power that activates with a kiss. Yamada becomes the key to unlocking and understanding each ability, as his own power allows him to copy or nullify other witches’ powers. His personal investment in helping the witches stems not just from curiosity but from a genuine desire to ease their burdens. -
Unlocking Forgotten Memories
In the midst of unraveling the witches’ secrets, Yamada also confronts lost memories, a result of a power that erased the past. As he pieces together what was forgotten, he realizes his connection to the witches goes deeper than he thought. This leads to a powerful emotional arc where Yamada must decide whether to sacrifice his current happiness to restore what once was.
Relationships
Urara Shiraishi
The first witch Yamada encounters and the person he switches bodies with. Their relationship starts off awkwardly but gradually develops into mutual understanding, trust, and eventually love. She becomes his closest companion and emotional anchor.
Miyabi Itou & Toranosuke Miyamura
Fellow members of the supernatural studies club. Miyamura, the student council vice-president, recruits Yamada to help discover the witches, while Itou supports their antics and investigations. They form a tight-knit team that helps propel Yamada’s growth.
The Seven Witches
Each witch Yamada encounters shares a unique bond with him. From the shy Odagiri to the confident Nene, Yamada helps them confront the burden of their powers and encourages them to embrace their true selves.