Due to growing up in a restricted environment and the circumstances of her disability, Yuki is portrayed as a timid girl. Despite her withdrawn nature, she is also shown to be pure-hearted and honest.

In some instances, she can easily misunderstand things. However, when situations are clarified, depending on the people involved or how the issue unfolds, she comes to a better understanding and is able to move forward. This was first seen when she instantly assumed Emma was Itsuomi’s girlfriend upon seeing her clinging to his arm. Another instance was when Emma came to deliver the apartment key she had borrowed from Itsuomi. Because of her assumption, Yuki became disheartened, only to feel relieved when Itsuomi explained the situation in a way that eased her anxiety.

Ever since meeting Rin and Itsuomi, she has shown the ability to express her thoughts and feelings, even if the language barrier remains a significant hurdle. Nevertheless, she demonstrates great determination to pursue the things she wants, in order to experience what the world has to offer, even if it worries both her family and Oushi, her childhood friend.

Since Yuki has never known what it is like to fall in love, she often seeks Rin’s advice on what to do or how to act when alone with Itsuomi. However, the moment Itsuomi flirts with her or gets physically close, she becomes incredibly flustered, much to his amusement. Nonetheless, she is at her happiest when experiencing every little thing, as long as Itsuomi is there with her.

Ever since he was young, Haru had been ridiculed by the adults in the Sohma “inside” for being stupid, largely because of the story of how the Rat took advantage of the Ox to become first in the Zodiac. As a result, Haru subconsciously saw Yuki as an enemy and developed a deep-seated hatred toward him. Constantly being insulted and demeaned by the adults made Haru extremely irritable, eventually bringing out his black persona, which caused his parents great concern. They encouraged him to take up martial arts to relieve his stress. Although Haru enjoyed the practice and became friends with Kyo Sohma, it failed to ease his frustrations, as he still faced ridicule there.

Two years before the start of the series, Haru and Rin fell in love and consummated their relationship. Haru knew the potential consequences but pursued Rin nonetheless. When Akito discovered their relationship, Rin convinced Akito that she had seduced Haru. In retaliation, Akito pushed Rin from a second-story window, leaving her hospitalized. Haru, unaware of the full circumstances, was distressed. During this time, Haru grew increasingly concerned about Yuki’s suffering while living in the Sohma main house. He pleaded with Shigure Sohma to let Yuki live in his own home. Shigure agreed, on the condition that Haru address him as “sensei.”

• The nameYukimeans “snow” (雪).
• Yuki’s surnameItosemeans “yarn, thread, string” (糸) (ito) and “swift current, rapids” (瀬) (se).