Series & First Appearance
Miuna Shiodome is a character from the anime and manga series Nagi no Asu kara (also known as Aqua Timez), created by Tsunenori Saito and animated by P.A. Works. She first appears in Episode 1 of the anime, which debuted in October 2013. The series intricately explores themes of love, friendship, and the divide between the sea and land.
Profile at a Glance
Miuna Shiodome is a third-grade elementary school girl whose age can be perceived as roughly 9 to 10 years old. She is a central protagonist within the series and is primarily affiliated with her friends and community from the undersea village of Shioshishio. Miuna develops the ability to breathe underwater, known as Ena, later in the series, which accentuates her connection to her aquatic heritage.
Personality & Motivations
Miuna is characterized by her gentle and caring demeanor, often displaying kindness and empathy toward others, especially her close friends. She is particularly motivated by her emotions and has a deep crush on Hikari Sakishima, which remains a driving force in her character development even after the narrative’s time skip. Notable quirks include her occasional shyness and her habit of expressing her feelings through her actions rather than words. Her love for Hikari remains steadfast, showcasing her loyalty and tenacity.
Abilities / Powers
Miuna’s primary ability is her Ena, which allows her to breathe underwater, bridging her earthly existence with her aquatic lineage. This unique skill evolves throughout the series, symbolizing her growing connection to her heritage and her internal struggles with identity. Her Ena starts as a latent power that she awakens after a significant emotional and transformative journey. While she does not engage in combat, her ability to navigate both land and sea plays a crucial role in her interactions with others and the plot’s progression.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Miuna’s journey revolves around her handling the loss of her mother, Miori, and how this loss shapes her relationships, particularly with Hikari and her best friend, Sayu. One pivotal moment occurs during the time skip, where the maturity she develops reveals how her feelings for Hikari have matured into a deeper understanding of love and longing. Her exploration of Ena and her emotional journey are marked by moments that highlight her growth from a naive child into a more developed and empathetic individual.
Another critical plot point is her struggle between her aspirations to be with Hikari and the realities of the rift between the sea and land communities. This internal conflict underscores her growth and offers a rich narrative exploration of belonging and acceptance in a world divided.
Notable Relationships
- Hikari Sakishima: Miuna’s crush and a significant figure in her life. Their complicated relationship is a primary focus in her character arc.
- Sayu: Miuna’s best friend who provides emotional support and a sense of camaraderie in navigating their unique challenges.
- Akari: Though a minor relationship, Akari’s connections to her family and the past foster Miuna’s nostalgia and goals related to her mother.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs in Episode 11, where Miuna shares with Hikari her thoughts about their future and how they can still be connected despite the inevitable changes. This highlights the tension between her dreams and the harsh reality of their situation.
Another impactful moment appears in Episode 14, during which Miuna finally expresses her feelings for Hikari openly, showcasing her emotional growth and vulnerability. The quote, “I won’t give up on you, no matter what our worlds are like,” encapsulates her determination and unyielding spirit, resonating with many fans who appreciate her loyalty.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Miuna Shiodome has garnered significant popularity, boasting over 1,300 member favorites on various anime databases. Her character design, featuring striking blue hair and expressive eyes, draws viewers to her emotive journey. Voice actors for Miuna include Mikako Komatsu in Japanese, known for her versatility, and Xanthe Huynh in English, who received praise for capturing the character’s innocence and depth.
The popularity of Nagi no Asu kara reflects themes common in coming-of-age narratives, and Miuna stands as a relatable character navigating the complexities of adolescence, love, and belonging. Fans often draw parallels between her experiences and their personal challenges, solidifying her place in the hearts of the anime community.
