Appearance
Aoi Kaguragi is depicted as a tall and well-built young man with tanned skin, short spiky blonde hair (white in the manga), and striking red eyes. He is notably eyebrowless and typically maintains a stern expression. While on duty or in combat, he dons the standard Defense Force uniform and combat suit.
Personality
Aoi Kaguragi is characterized by his intense and disciplined nature, constantly striving to outperform his peers and push himself toward greater strength. Though he often appears cold and stoic, he conceals deeper emotions beneath his composed exterior. His prideful disposition has also fostered a competitive rivalry with fellow trainee Haruichi Izumo, who matches him in talent and determination.
Plot
The Man Who Became a Kaiju Arc
Aoi Kaguragi participated in the Defense Force’s second-stage examination, finishing first in the fitness test, though he kept his attention focused on Kikoru Shinomiya. During the aptitude test, he achieved a 15% output from the Defense Force Suit, yet was unable to match Kikoru’s performance. Following the conclusion of the exam and a subsequent accident, Aoi and the other candidates were safely evacuated. A few days later, he was officially inducted into the Defense Force.
Sagamihara Neutralization Operation at Daybreak Arc
Two months after completing shooting training, Aoi Kaguragi told Haruichi Izumo that he had caught up to his full potential by unlocking 25% of his Defense Force Suit’s power. That evening, he and the other trainees gathered in the bathroom to discuss their motivations for joining the Defense Force. The conversation shifted to Kafka Hibino’s past connection with Captain Mina Ashiro, and their excitement caused them to overheat and faint. That same night, a kaiju appeared, marking the start of their first mission. During the operation, Aoi and Haruichi quickly showcased their exceptional field skills to their platoon leader, Nakanoshima, and later prepared to eliminate all remaining Yoju following the death of the Honju.
A few days afterward, Aoi participated in a kendo training session at Tachikawa Base attended by Metro TV journalists. He challenged Vice-Captain Soshiro Hoshina, a swordsmanship expert. Although Aoi was defeated, he expressed his gratitude and resolved to train harder. Soshiro acknowledged Aoi’s talent, praising his skill and potential.
Raid on Tachikawa Base Arc
In the midst of a raid, Aoi Kaguragi, alongside Haruichi Izumo and Ryo Ikaruga, engaged a group of Wyvern-type kaiju following instructions from Kafka Hibino. Just as Aoi and Izumo were about to finish off one of the creatures, Kikoru Shinomiya intervened with a sudden and precise ax strike, saving them. Later, Aoi observed Kafka reveal his transformation into Kaiju No. 8, stepping in to neutralize the threat of a Yoju-bomb and protect everyone present.
Kaiju No. 8 Captured Arc
After Kafka Hibino was captured, Aoi and the other trainees were given the opportunity to join a different division due to the extensive damage to Tachikawa Base. Following Leno Ichikawa’s decision to transfer, Aoi accompanied him, seeking to further develop his skills. Later, both Aoi and Haruichi Izumo were reassigned to the Second Division.
Kaiju Weapon Arc
Following the death of Director General Isao Shinomiya at the hands of Kaiju No. 9, Aoi Kaguragi and Haruichi Izumo joined the rest of their division in paying tribute to him.
The Compatible User Arc
Sometime after the Tachikawa Base attack, Aoi Kaguragi reached out to Kafka Hibino via text to check on his well-being. Several months later, he and Haruichi Izumo learned that Reno Ichikawa had become the first person in history compatible with Kaiju No. 6’s weapon.
The Last Wave Arc
During the climax of the nationwide chaos caused by Kaiju No. 9, Aoi Kaguragi and Haruichi Izumo arrived in the Kasumigaseki area to confront the Third Wave. While Haruichi attacked with his bow, Aoi announced their arrival as the newest members of the Third Division.
Power & Abilities
Aoi Kaguragi was considered a rising talent in the JGSDF, recognized for his exceptional physical strength and ranking first in the fitness test. On the battlefield, he effectively supports his teammates, demonstrating impressive combat abilities against kaiju.
Powers
Aoi Kaguragi is capable of releasing 15% of his combat suit’s power initially, and after completing his shooting training, he is able to harness up to 25% of its full potential.
Trivia
Aoi Kaguragi enjoys sports, particularly basketball, reading historical novels, and caring for hamsters.
Images
Character Images
Anime
Manga
Equipment
Combat Suit
On the battlefield, Aoi Kaguragi wears the standard Defense Force combat suit.
Respirator Mask
He also uses a respirator mask for protection.
Rifle
Aoi’s main weapon in combat is a rifle.
Pile Driver
After training with the Second Division, he received a pile driver, model PB-3115, provided by Izumo Tech.
Name Origin
The first name Aoi (葵) translates to “hollyhock” or “althea.” His family name, Kaguragi (神楽木), is composed of the kanji 神楽 (kagura), which refers to “Shinto music,” and 木 (ki or gi), meaning “tree” or “wood.”