Ashitaka

Overview

Ashitaka, also known as Ashitakahiko, is the primary protagonist of the Studio Ghibli animated film Princess Mononoke. As one of the few remaining youths of the Emishi people, who lived hidden in the northern lands after being defeated by the Yamato court, he was raised as the prospective leader of his tribe. After receiving a fatal curse on his right arm, he sets off westward alongside his red elk mount, Yakul, in search of a way to cure it.

Appearance

Ashitaka has short brown hair, brown eyes, and distinct features including thick eyebrows. He wears a red hood, a cape, fingerless gloves, and jewelry including earrings. His right arm is marked with a dark facial-style curse mark. Following the traditional customs of his village upon departure, his topknot was cut off.

Personality

Ashitaka is calm, composed, and possesses a refined, dignified presence. Armed with a strong sense of justice and a warm demeanor, he earns the respect and affection of those around him regardless of their gender or social standing. He tends to carry heavy burdens internally and often exerts a subtle, natural charm on others without realizing it.

Abilities

Already a remarkably skilled archer with exceptional physical capabilities, the curse residing in his right arm responds to his hatred and anger, granting him inhuman strength. Under its influence, he can single-handedly lift the massive main gate of Irontown even while severely injured, and his arrows carry enough force to sever limbs and penetrate helmets.

Background

While protecting his village from an attacking Tatarigami, Ashitaka receives a deadly curse on his right arm. Forced to cut his hair and leave his homeland forever according to tribal laws, he journeys to the west as directed by the village priestess. In those lands, he encounters a violent struggle between human settlers and ancient forest gods, uncovering the origins of his affliction.

Relationships

He shares a deep bond of mutual trust with his intelligent mount, the red elk Yakul, who accompanies him throughout his journey. In his hometown, he left behind a betrothed named Kaya. During his travels, he forms complex connections with both San, a human girl raised by wolves, and Lady Eboshi, the leader of Irontown.

Trivia

Director Hayao Miyazaki intentionally designed Ashitaka with the goal of creating an exceptionally handsome male protagonist. His technique for drawing his bow in the film differs noticeably from traditional Japanese archery forms. During production, the director famously proposed titling the movie The Legend of Ashitaka instead.