Ghibli’s Best Magical Creatures and Characters, Ranked

With over 20 releases to its credit and counting, Studio Ghibli is still on top of the animation world. Since its emergence in 1985, the Japanese animation studio, co-founded by legendary director Hayao Miyazaki, has provided countless beloved entries in its impressive catalog of immersive anime films.

While not the rule, most of Studio Ghibli’s canon is steeped in the supernatural, with both Miyazaki and his contemporaries regularly adding isekai-flavored fantasy adventures to their respective filmographies. Though Ghibli’s array of strong human protagonists is a formidable who’s who of iconic anime main characters, the many fully-realized worlds of its films are ripe with non-human characters who leave indelible marks on audiences in their own right. Whether it be recognizable fan favorites like My Neighbor Totoro‘s titular critter or newer additions to Ghibli lore from The Boy and the Heron, Studio Ghibli has spoiled its audiences with a menagerie of magical characters to enjoy.

Updated on August 30, 2024, by Antonio Samson: Studio Ghibli is beloved for its unique and memorable characters. However, some of the most popular are the plethora of non-human characters in the Ghibli movies. This article was updated to include more characters and to meet CBR’s editorial and formatting standards.

15 Arrietty’s Adventure is Heightened by the Crow’s Presence

Elevating the Tension and Drama of Arrietty’s Journey

In The Secret World of Arrietty, Arrietty, a tiny Borrower, must constantly navigate a world filled with oversized dangers. One of the most thrilling encounters in the film occurs when Arrietty comes face to face with a menacing crow. The bird’smassive size compared to the tiny Borrowers turns a simple room into a battleground, with the crow’s curiosity and aggression posing a significant threat. The crow isn’t just an ordinary adversary; it underscores the vulnerability of the Borrowers, serving as a physical manifestation of the dangers Arrietty and her family face in their everyday lives.

Its presence is not merely incidental but is instrumental in reflecting the broader theme of survival. By positioning the crow as a predatory force, the film makes Arrietty’s courage more profound as she must face a creature that sees her as insignificant. The tension created by the crow mirrors the uncertainty of living in a world designed for humans, and this encounter becomes a critical moment in showcasing Arrietty’s resilience and adaptability in an unforgiving world, placing it at the bottom of our list.

14 Pom Poko’s Shape-Shifting Tanuki Balance Humor and Heart

Guardians of a Fragile Ecosystem

The mischievous tanuki of Pom Poko are some of Studio Ghibli’s most entertaining non-human characters. These shape-shifting raccoon dogs live on the outskirts of human society and use their transformation abilities to protect their forest home from urban development. Their playful and often hilarious antics, from disguising themselves as humans to scaring construction workers, provide moments of fun throughout the film. However, beneath their comical exterior lies a deep sense of duty and love for their home. The tanuki represent the last defense against an ever-encroaching human world that threatens to obliterate their way of life.

They are not simply pranksters but are deeply connected to the environment and to each other. The tanuki’s shape-shifting abilities are not just humorous but serve as a poignant reminder of the lengths creatures will go to protect their homes. The film mixes the whimsical with the tragic, as the tanuki struggle with the reality that their efforts may not be enough to stop the inevitable destruction. This blend of humor, heart, and an environmental message adds layers to their characterization, making them both endearing and tragic.

13 Haru’s Transformation Sparks Adventure in The Cat Returns

Haru’s Journey of Self-Discovery

In The Cat Returns, Haru Yoshioka is an ordinary high school girl who undergoes an extraordinary transformation. After saving a cat prince, she finds herself drawn into the mysterious and whimsical world of the Cat Kingdom. As a result of her heroic act, Haru begins to transform into a cat herself. This physical change symbolizes her deeper journey into the unknown and marks the beginning of her daring adventure. Haru’s transformation is more than a superficial change; it represents her inner conflict and personal growth.

As she becomes more entangled in the cat world, Haru must grapple with the loss of her identity and what it means to truly be herself. The transformation forces Haru to confront fears and uncertainties she had previously ignored, compelling her to grow in ways she never expected. Her journey through the Cat Kingdom is symbolic of the larger, internal adventure of self-discovery that many young people face as they transition from adolescence to adulthood. Haru’s evolution throughout the film from a shy, unsure girl to someone who learns to trust her instincts and assert her desires cements her as a relatable and admirable protagonist.

12 The Wind Spirits Elevate the Skyborne Fantasy of The Wind Rises

The Symbolic Role of Wind Spirits in Jiro’s Dream

The Wind Rises may be one of Studio Ghibli’s more grounded films, focusing on historical drama rather than magical creatures. However, the ethereal Wind Spirits are a subtle, symbolic presence throughout the film. These invisible beings are not traditional characters but are present in gusts of wind that guide the protagonist, Jiro Horikoshi, on his journey as an aircraft designer. The Wind Spirits carry a deeper significance in Jiro’s life, subtly intertwining the forces of nature with the creative process.

Just as wind lifts the planes Jiro designs, the spirits represent the inspiration and dreams that carry him forward through the challenges he faces. They serve as gentle reminders of the harmony between human ambition and the natural world, reinforcing the idea that Jiro’s creativity, much like the wind, cannot be fully controlled but must be embraced. Their presence elevates the film from a straightforward biopic to a reflective meditation on the nature of creativity, progress, and the moral complexities of Jiro’s work during a time of war.

11 The Giant Insects of the Toxic Jungle in Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

The Giant Insects Environmental Message

In Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, the Toxic Jungle is home to a terrifying array of giant insects, the most notable being the Ohmu. However, the jungle’s other insect inhabitants, such as the massive beetles and dragonfly-like creatures, also play an essential role in the story. These enormous, sentient beings are both a danger and a fascination to the humans living on the jungle’s outskirts. While the giant insects may appear menacing, their existence is crucial to the film’s central message of environmental balance and the interconnectedness of all life forms.

The insects, particularly the Ohmu, are not merely antagonists but are guardians of the ecosystem, protecting the Toxic Jungle from human exploitation. Their presence forces the human characters, and by extension the audience, to confront their own destructive tendencies. Nausicaä’s empathy toward these creatures, her desire to understand them rather than fear them, exemplifies a broader environmental philosophy—that nature, even in its most dangerous forms, must be respected and protected. The insects embody the planet’s desperate plea for balance and harmony, making them symbolic of nature’s power and resilience in the face of human greed and ignorance.

10 A Certain Filmmaker Favors The Parakeet King

This Character From The Boy and The Heron Stands Out

In The Boy and the Heron, The Parakeet King has an undeniable, scene-stealing presence. The film depicts the monarch as a champion of the people — or parakeets — as headstrong as he is stubborn. While his selfish decision in the film’s climax may leave a sour taste in fans’ mouths, the Parakeet King is still favored by the most important person of all: Hayao Miyazaki. His fondness for the Parakeet King is not just based on his whimsical nature but also his complexity.

The Parakeet King embodies the contradictions often found in Miyazaki’s characters—he is flawed, sometimes selfish, but also deeply passionate and driven by a sense of duty. His eccentric personality and unique expressions mirror Miyazaki’s own creative spirit, and his actions, though sometimes misguided, reflect a genuine desire to protect his world. The character’s mix of humor, authority, and fallibility makes him a compelling figure who stays with the audience long after the film ends, even if his choices are polarizing, places him at the number 10 spot on our list.

9 Jiji is a Direct Tether Between Kiki and Her Magic

Without Jiji, Kiki Would Have no Access to Witchcraft

Despite her witch status, Kiki’s Delivery Service doesn’t pit its titular hero against a powerful force like Yubaba or the Witch of the Waste. Instead, it pits Kiki against herself as she grapples with maintaining her magic as her confidence dwindles. It’s a deeply human challenge for the otherworldly protagonist. Among the first Kiki’s magical attributes to go is more than a supernatural asset. It’s her beloved cat, best friend, and familiar, Jiji. He is not just Kiki’s sidekick; he is a reflection of her own inner world.

His playful, sometimes sarcastic demeanor provides comfort to Kiki as she navigates a new city, away from her family. Jiji is the embodiment of Kiki’s magical connection and her sense of self. When Kiki loses her ability to communicate with Jiji, it signals a deep personal crisis where she begins to lose faith in herself and her powers. Their eventual reunion is not just a return of a magical companion, but a symbol of Kiki’s regained confidence and self-assurance. Jiji, in many ways, represents the bridge between Kiki’s magical and human worlds, making their bond an emotional linchpin in the story.

8 When It Comes to No-Face, Heart Is What Matters

No-Face is Well-Loved, Despite a Spooky Appearance

Spirited Away‘s fantastical world puts Chihiro through a crucible, recklessly volleying the heroine throughout disorienting set-pieces filled with enigmatic, potentially untrustworthy characters. Desperate to find her way back home to the real world, Chihiro spends much of Spirited Away’s runtime struggling to discern between reliable and nefarious intentions in the spirit world’s inhabitants. Despite his eerie, spectral presence and unsettling tendency to consume others in the bathhouse, No-Face is not inherently malevolent. His initial hunger and strange behavior symbolize a deep loneliness and a craving for connection.

Through his interactions with Chihiro, No-Face’s character evolves, moving from a shadowy, dangerous figure to someone who is ultimately lost and searching for a sense of belonging. Chihiro’s compassion toward him reveals the power of kindness and understanding, even in a world filled with chaos. No-Face’s journey from isolated monster to redeemed companion highlights one of the film’s central themes: the importance of empathy in overcoming fear and misunderstanding. This transformation is what makes No-Face such an enduring and beloved figure in the Studio Ghibli universe.

7 Hearts Worldwide Burn for Calficer

Loving a Former Fallen Star Turned Fire Demon is Complicated

Calcifer is a complicated figure within Howl’s Moving Castle‘s framework. His irresistibly cute character design and comedic relief endear him to audiences, but his backstory and place in the story make him polarizing. Beyond being somewhat of a grumpy loudmouth, Calcifer is also a fire demon and fallen star, whose pact with Howl is the cause of the latter’s life-threatening curse. His bond with Howl ties the two characters’ fates together, creating a dynamic relationship that drives much of the film’s drama.

Despite his prickly exterior, Calcifer is ultimately vulnerable—trapped by his curse and yearning for freedom, much like Howl himself. The gradual development of trust and friendship between Calcifer and Sophie adds depth to his character, as we see him transition from a self-serving entity to someone capable of selflessness and sacrifice. This evolution makes Calcifer not only a source of comic relief but a poignant symbol of redemption and the power of unlikely friendships.

6 Ponyo is Ghibli’s Leading Lady Fish

One Of Ghibli’s Few Non-Human Characters

Thanks to its fish princess title character, non-human characters take centerstage in Ponyo.Through Ponyo’s eyes, Miyazaki investigates humanity’s complacency about their relationship with nature, the power of love, and the innocence of children. Ponyo’s transformation from a small goldfish into a human child represents the fluid boundaries between the natural and human worlds. Her childlike curiosity and determination to live life as a human girl demonstrate the purity of her spirit, making her one of the most endearing characters in Studio Ghibli’s catalog

Ponyo’s interactions with the human world are not just charming; they reflect the film’s larger themes of love, environmentalism, and the delicate balance between nature and mankind. Her relationship with Sosuke exemplifies how love can transcend boundaries—whether between species or human beings and the environment. Ponyo’s journey is about her transformation and teaching those around her to appreciate and respect the natural world.

5 Soot Sprites are Studio Ghibli’s Recurring Cuties

From My Neighbor Totoro to Spirited Away

The Soot Sprites are among the few Studio Ghibli’s characters that recur between films. While they may not possess the godly powers or impressive supernatural abilities of other non-human counterparts, the special place the Soot Sprites hold in the hearts of Ghibli loyalists can’t be denied. In My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away, the Soot Sprites serve a dual purpose. On the one hand, they add a whimsical, almost childlike charm to their respective films, acting as gentle guides to the human protagonists as they venture into magical worlds.

On the other hand, the Soot Sprites represent the invisible labor and unseen forces that keep these enchanted worlds functioning. They work tirelessly in the background, making sure that everything runs smoothly, yet they never demand recognition or praise. Their tiny, diligent presence serves as a metaphor for the quiet magic that existsin everyday life, reminding audiences that even the smallest beings can play a vital role in the larger picture. Their repeated appearances across different Ghibli films also create a sense of continuity, linking the studio’s diverse stories into a shared universe of wonder and enchantment.

4 The Robot Soldiers Keep Laputa Afloat

These Iron Golems Keep The Titular Castle in the Titular Sky

Studio Ghilbli’s first entry, Castle in the Sky, established the still-strong Hayao Miyazaki trope of an ally with an unlikely appearance. Coveted, brainwashed, and weaponized by Castle in the Sky villain Muska and sporting an ominous oblong appearance, both the audience and protagonist Sheeta understandably spent most of the movie assuming the Laputian Robots were dangerous and untrustworthy. These Robot Soldiers, however, are far more than the weapons they are initially perceived to be. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the robots are caretakers of the floating city of Laputa, devoted to preserving the ancient technology and natural beauty of their home.

The robots’ design—a mix of imposing strength and delicate care—symbolizes the tension between technological advancement and environmental stewardship. Their capacity for destruction is tempered by their deep-rooted connection to nature, as evidenced by their gentle tending of Laputa’s gardens. This duality makes the robots powerful yet empathetic figures, demonstrating that technology, when used wisely, can coexist harmoniously with the natural world. By being such a valiant protector, the Laputian Robot joins the admirable ranks of Ghibli characters who sacrifice themselves for nature.

3 Haku Is An Elusive, Enchanting Yokai

Part Boy, Part Dragon, Part River God

Haku is a frustrating presence in Spirited Away‘s first half. A servant to the evil Yubaba, Haku’s pendulum swings between being ice-cold toward Chihiro to recklessly helpful to her. Haku’s erratic behavior disorientes Chihiro during a time when, more than anything, she craves stability. Ever since mysteriously revealing he’s known Chihiro since she was little, Haku’s elusive nature and contradictory behavior confuse Chihiro, even making her wonder if two people named Haku are running around. Haku’s true identity as a River God trapped in human form lends depth to his erratic behavior and mysterious past.

His internal conflict, bound by a curse that forces him into Yubaba’s service, mirrors Chihiro’s struggle to regain her identity and return to the human world. His dragon form, both beautiful and fearsome, embodies his dual nature—part protector, part captive. Haku’s connection to Chihiro runs deeper than mere friendship; their bond is symbolic of the film’s theme of remembrance and identity. His eventual redemption and return to his true self as the Kohaku River God is a powerful narrative of transformation, both for Haku and for Chihiro.

2 The Forest Spirit Is Among Miyazaki’s Most Mesmerizing Creations

Princess Mononoke’s Nature-Defending Deity Leaves its Mark

The Studio Ghibli library is a rich tapestry of animated masterpieces, each with impeccably rendered characters and worlds both worth protecting. Among the myriad entries in its pantheon of fantastical characters, The Forest Spirit from Princess Mononoke stands out as one of Ghibli’s most fascinating. The Forest Spirit is an enigmatic and awe-inspiring being, embodying both the creation and destruction that are inherent to nature. Its ability to shift between a peaceful deer-like creature and a towering, fearsome god emphasizes the duality of nature itself—capable of nurturing life but also unleashing destruction when threatened.

An embodiment of both nature’s beauty and its destruction, The Forest Spirit holds the unenviable task of protecting the forest at the center of Princess Mononoke‘s man-versus-industry conflict. The Forest Spirit’s indifference to human concerns underscores the theme that nature exists beyond human morality, operating on its own laws. This neutrality makes the Forest Spirit a hauntingly powerful figure, one that inspires both reverence and fear. Its ultimate sacrifice in the film’s climax speaks to the delicate equilibrium required to sustain life, leaving a profound impact on both the characters and the audience.

1 Totoro, The Unparalleled Protector

Forests and Protagonists Flourish Under His Watch

Totoro’s icon status is undeniable. The rotund forest spirit is not only the titular character of My Neighbor Totoro, but has since also earned the role of Studio Ghibli poster child, featured in Ghibli’s promotional logo and title cards. Despite his popularity and the abundance of adorable Totoro merch licensed by Ghibli, there’s so much more that endears the character to fans. Totoro’s role in My Neighbor Totoro transcends that of a simple magical creature; he represents comfort, protection, and the wonder of childhood.

Director Hayao Miyazaki dips his toes into autobiography in My Neighbor Totoro, with protagonist sisters Satsuki and Mei as his proxy as they struggle to accept a recent move and their mother in failing health. It’s a devastating hand to be dealt, but Totoro softens the blow, protecting the kids’ innocence just as he protects his home forest and Camphor Tree. This loyalty and supportive presence keeps Totoro closest to Ghibli fans’ hearts, particularly among children, making him the best non-human character in any Studio Ghibli movie.