Series & First Appearance
Tsukimi Kurashita is a key character in the manga and anime series Kuragehime (Jellyfish Princess), created by Akiko Higashimura. She made her debut in Chapter 1 of the manga, which was first published in 2008, and is also featured in the anime adaptation that aired in 2010.
Profile at a Glance
Tsukimi is a 18-year-old female protagonist known for her distinct otaku personality, specifically her obsession with jellyfish. She is one of the "Amars," a group of socially withdrawn women living in an old apartment complex called Amamizukan. Her primary affiliation is with her friends, the other Amars, and she aspires to become a professional illustrator. Notable for her passion for jellyfish and her deep knowledge of them, Tsukimi also has a pet spotted jellyfish named Clara.
Personality & Motivations
Tsukimi is characterized by her introverted nature, timid demeanor, and significant social anxiety, especially around stylish or fashionable individuals, which causes her to freeze in their presence. Despite her insecurities, she possesses a fierce passion for her artwork and an affinity for jellyfish, largely influenced by her late mother. Tsukimi’s motivations revolve around pursuing her dream of becoming an illustrator and navigating her complex feelings for Shuu, a male character she believes loves someone else. Her relationship with Kuranosuke, who cross-dresses, challenges her perceptions of beauty and gender norms, allowing her to grow considerably throughout the series.
Abilities / Powers
While Tsukimi does not possess supernatural powers, her standout skills lie in her artistic abilities and her extensive knowledge of jellyfish. This knowledge often plays a crucial role in her character development, as it reflects her deeper emotional connections and artistry. Tsukimi’s ability to become elegant and fashionable with Kuranosuke’s help reveals her transformative potential—both emotionally and visually. However, she often struggles with self-esteem issues that can hinder her confidence and creativity.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Tsukimi’s character development is primarily shaped through her interactions with Kuranosuke and Shuu. Initially, she feels out of place and fearful of the outside world; however, as the series progresses, her relationship with Kuranosuke helps her break out of her shell. A pivotal turning point occurs during her makeover, which not only makes her attractive to Shuu but also forces her to confront her feelings for him and her insecurities about self-worth. As the series unfolds, Tsukimi learns to navigate her relationships, embrace her individuality, and confidently pursue her artistic ambitions.
Notable Relationships
- Kuranosuke Koibuchi: Tsukimi’s closest confidant, whose cross-dressing challenges Tsukimi’s views on femininity. Their friendship evolves into a complicated relationship filled with mutual support and understanding.
- Shuu: A handsome individual who becomes infatuated with Tsukimi after her makeover, contributing to her conflict about romantic feelings and self-identity.
- Other Amars: Tsukimi shares a strong bond with her fellow residents of Amamizukan, who collectively embody various eccentricities and quirks that reinforce her sense of belonging.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable episode in Tsukimi’s arc is her makeover scene (Episode 4), where she undergoes a dramatic transformation at Kuranosuke’s insistence. This moment resonates with fans as it symbolizes her potential to merge her artistic self with societal expectations of beauty. Another impactful moment occurs when Tsukimi proclaims her love for jellyfish, stating, “Jellyfish have no fashion, just like me,” showcasing her internal struggle between self-acceptance and the pressures of conformity.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Tsukimi Kurashita garnered attention for her relatable otaku traits coupled with a unique passion for jellyfish, making her a standout character in the slice-of-life genre. The anime aired on Fuji TV and was well-received for its charming character designs and storyline, reflecting the distinct creative style of Akiko Higashimura. In terms of voice portrayal, Tsukimi is voiced by the talented Misaki Kuno in the Japanese version, bringing warmth and nuance to her character. Additionally, Tsukimi has gained a notable fan following, often featured in popularity polls and events related to Kuragehime, thus solidifying her place in the hearts of anime enthusiasts.
Overall, Tsukimi Kurashita embodies themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and the power of friendship, making her a beloved figure within her series and a relatable character for many fans navigating their journeys of identity and expression.
