Clannadis a fascinating anime series cherished for its profound storytelling and relatable characters. The story follows protagonist Tomoya Okazaki, a disillusioned youth who finds purpose and growth through bonds with diverse personalities, including kind-hearted Nagisa Furukawa, their resilient daughter Ushio, and an array of friends, each unique in their strengths and vulnerabilities.
RELATED:Best Anime Like Clannad
The series brilliantly portrays life’s triumphs and trials, moving viewers to both laughter and tears. From Fuko Ibuki’s poignant journey to the vibrant duality of Kyou Fujibayashi, these characters drive theslice-of-life narrative, making Clannad a memorable exploration of family, friendship, and the human spirit.
10Youhei Sunohara
Youhei Sunohara is a primary character in Clannad, known for his comedic role as Tomoya Okazaki’s best friend. He is depicted as somewhat foolish and constantly the butt of many jokes, but beneath this facade lies a loyal and caring heart.
Despite his lackluster academic performance and tendency to land in hilarious predicaments, Youhei consistently proves his loyalty and friendship. His boisterous nature and comedic relief counter the series' emotional aspects, and his steadfast friendship with Tomoya, makes him a likeable character.
9Kotomi Ichinose
Kotomi Ichinose is a key character distinguished by her quiet demeanor and exceptional intelligence. Initially an enigmatic figure, her deep friendship with Tomoya Okazaki uncovers a layered backstory filled with tragedy and hope.
Kotomi exhibits a warm heart with genuine feelings, even though she is socially awkward and isolated. Her character arc, a journey from solitude to companionship, is a powerful narrative in the series. Kotomi’s love for books, her violin-playing, and her dream to follow in her parent’s footsteps in science add depth to this uniquely endearing character.
8Sanae Furukawa
Sanae Furukawa is a cherished character best known as Nagisa’s loving mother and a supportive figure for Tomoya. A kind-hearted and optimistic woman, Sanae is also a co-owner of the Furukawa Bakery alongside her husband, Akio.
RELATED:Tragic Anime Love Stories
Although she has a gentle demeanor, she exhibits immense strength and resilience toward her family. Her infamous bread creations, often unconventional in taste, bring light-hearted humor to the series. Sanae’s unwavering love for her daughter, nurturing presence for Tomoya, and role in shaping the Furukawa family’s warmth make her a memorable character.
7Fuko Ibuki
Fuko Ibuki is a distinctive character remembered for her ethereal storyline and love for starfish. She appears as a seemingly eccentric girl carving wooden starfish at school, but Fuko’s arc reveals a deeper love, memory, and connection narrative.
Her unwavering determination to invite everyone to her sister’s wedding, despite her mysterious circumstances, adds a touch of poignancy to the series. Fuko’s innocence, perseverance, and quirky fascination with starfish provide comedic and emotional moments, making her character journey one of the most impactful within the Clannad universe.
6Tomoyo Sakagami
Tomoyo Sakagami is a prominent character with strong physical and emotional strength and dedication to protecting the school’s cherry blossom trees. Initially perceived as intimidating due to her formidable fighting skills, Tomoyo’s softer side is revealed through her interactions with Tomoya Okazaki.
RELATED:Best Anime Villains Who Turned Into Heroes
Her ambitious nature drives her to aim for the student council presidency, reflecting her deep love for the school. Tomoyo’s character journey, from a misunderstood fighter to a compassionate leader and friend, adds a dynamic layer to the story, making her one of the most compelling characters.
5Akio Furukawa
Akio Furukawa, a standout character, is known for his comedic antics,love for baseball, and love for his family. As Nagisa’s father and co-owner of the Furukawa Bakery, Akio often provides light-hearted relief amidst the series' emotional intensity.
Beneath his playful exterior, however, lies a caring and protective father who would go to great lengths for his daughter’s happiness. His dynamic relationship with his wife, Sanae, and his mentor-like role for Tomoya Okazaki adds depth to his character, making Akio a beloved figure in the series.
4Kyou Fujibayashi
Kyou Fujibayashi is a vibrant character known for her fiery nature and loyalty to her friends. As a twin sister to Ryou, Kyou stands out with her assertive personality, often seen riding a scooter and possessing a pet baby boar named Botan.
Kyou is incredibly caring, particularly when it comes to her sister and her feelings for Tomoya Okazaki. Her journey, grappling with her emotions while trying to support those around her, makes Kyou a compelling and multi-faceted part of the series.
3Ushio Okazaki
Ushio Okazaki, introduced in Clannad: After Story, is the sweet, resilient daughter of Tomoya Okazaki and Nagisa Furukawa. Despite her young age, Ushio displays immense intelligence, strength, and maturity, shaped by the series' poignant circumstances.
Her character introduces a new depth to Tomoya’s narrative, pushing him towards personal growth, self-discovery, and acceptance. Ushio’s love for the robot and the girl story, her attachment to a certain toy dango, and her heartrending and innocent field scene create some of the series' most impactful and memorable moments.
2Nagisa Furukawa
Nagisa Furukawa is the heart of Clannad, serving as themain female protagonist. Characterized by her kindness, vulnerability, and love for the Dango Daikazoku song, Nagisa’s presence deeply affects Tomoya Okazaki, the series' protagonist.
Despite her frail health and self-doubt, Nagisa is incredibly resilient, determined to resurrect the school’s drama club to overcome her insecurities. Her relationship with Tomoya forms the series' emotional core, leading to various life-changing events. Nagisa’s journey, filled with joy, sorrow, love, and perseverance, beautifully encapsulates the series' exploration of family and friendship.
1Tomoya Okazaki
Tomoya Okazaki is the central character, a seemingly disillusioned youth who undergoes a transformative journey. Struggling with his past and discontented with life, Tomoya’s encounter with Nagisa Furukawa sparks a change, leading him towards growth and understanding.
His relationships with characters reveal different facets of his personality, showcasing his kindness, sense of humor, and resilience. Tomoya’s journey, marked by love, loss, parenthood, and eventual acceptance, forms the emotional backbone of the series. His character evolution from a cynical teenager to a mature adult embodies the essence of Clannad.
