Shikinami
Shikinami is a fleet girl in Kantai Collection, representing the second vessel of the Special Type II (Ayanami-class) destroyers of the Imperial Japanese Navy. Historical service in major Pacific campaigns and convoy escort duties forms the backbone of her character concept. In-game, she functions as a dependable common destroyer who commands a loyal fanbase due to her understated charm and subtle expression of affection toward the Admiral. Beyond the primary web game, Shikinami takes center stage as the protagonist of the official spin-off manga Fleet Collection -KanColle- Umiiro no Alto Saxophone.
Overview
Shikinami is a fleet girl in Kantai Collection, representing the second vessel of the Special Type II (Ayanami-class) destroyers of the Imperial Japanese Navy. Historical service in major Pacific campaigns and convoy escort duties forms the backbone of her character concept. In-game, she functions as a dependable common destroyer who commands a loyal fanbase due to her understated charm and subtle expression of affection toward the Admiral. Beyond the primary web game, Shikinami takes center stage as the protagonist of the official spin-off manga Fleet Collection -KanColle- Umiiro no Alto Saxophone.
Appearance
Shikinami features chestnut-brown hair bound into a ponytail with a black ribbon, slightly slanted dark amber eyes, and soft, rounded cheeks. She wears a Fubuki-style sailor uniform consisting of a brown collar and a matching brown skirt, complemented by Special Type II destroyer rigging mounted on her back. While maintaining a stoic facial expression in her base artwork, she subtly forms a peace sign with her left hand. Upon reaching her Kai Ni form, her outfit changes to match the uniform style of Ayanami Kai Ni.
Personality
Shikinami possesses a reserved tsundere personality characterized by bashfulness and subtle affection. She frequently adopts a detached demeanor, uttering dismissive remarks when addressed, yet her inner feelings reveal a deeply caring nature toward the Admiral and her squadmates. Incapable of straightforward emotional expression, she struggles with embarrassment whenever expressing gratitude or joy during seasonal celebrations and anniversaries. Her subtle vulnerability and affectionate side during idle port interactions make her an endeared character among Admirals.
Abilities
Starting with a 12.7cm Twin Gun Mount, Shikinami functions as a standard Special Type destroyer. Her initial remodel equips her with a 10cm Twin High-angle Gun Mount and a 61cm Triple Torpedo Mount. At level 80, using development materials, she can be upgraded to Shikinami Kai Ni, acquiring specialized gear such as the 12.7cm Twin Gun Mount Model B Kai 2, a sonar, and a depth charge projector. In comparison to her sister Ayanami Kai Ni, Shikinami Kai Ni possesses lower raw firepower and torpedo damage, but offers higher anti-air and anti-submarine stats for specialized support roles.
Background
Shikinami's persona originates from the Imperial Japanese Navy destroyer built at the Maizuru Naval Yard. As part of Destroyer Division 19, her historical namesake participated in the Sino-Japanese War and numerous World War II campaigns. During the Battle of Sunda Strait (Batavia Sea), she helped sink the heavy cruiser USS Houston alongside Mogami and Mikuma. She spent the latter part of the war conducting vital convoy escorts and transport missions until being torpedoed by the submarine USS Growler in 1944. This background of steadfast support duty under intense war conditions informs her identity as a quiet yet seasoned fleet member.
Relationships
Shikinami shares a close sisterly bond with Ayanami, her fellow Ayanami-class lead ship in Destroyer Division 19, often spending holidays together or sharing seasonal treats. She also maintains close ties with her division mates Isonami and Uranami. Towards the Admiral, she harbors deep trust and quiet affection beneath her exterior coldness. Her historical background links her to the escort ship Mikura, who rescued her surviving crew, as well as the light cruiser Ooi, with whom she operated during transport operations in New Guinea.
Trivia
The surname of the character Shikinami Asuka Langley from Rebuild of Evangelion originates from the historical destroyer Shikinami. In Kantai Collection, Shikinami has received seasonal illustrations, including a yukata outfit and a cat-eared artwork during the Saury Festival, which birthed her fan nickname "Shikinyami." Official rough artwork by Shibafu depicting her in off-duty attire sparked widespread community discussion regarding her everyday uniform. Furthermore, fans lightheartedly coined the fictional term "Shikinamin" to represent the comforting, soothing atmosphere she imparts to Admirals.
