Series & First Appearance
Kaede Kagayama first appears in the anime series Non Non Biyori, created by Atto. The series debuted in 2013, and Kaede is introduced in the first season, specifically in episode 7.
Profile at a Glance
Kaede is a 20-year-old owner of a local candy shop in the rural town of Asahigaoka. She serves as a supporting character, primarily known for her role as a mentor and protector to younger characters, especially Renge. Aside from her candy shop, Kaede runs a ski rental business, reflecting her passion for skiing.
Personality & Motivations
Kaede is characterized by her kind-hearted nature and nurturing personality, often displaying a maternal instinct, especially toward Renge, whom she babysat when Renge was a baby. While she enjoys her work, she feels discomfort with her nickname "Candy Store," showing a preference for being recognized by her name. Kaede is also motivated by a desire for financial independence through her businesses, leveraging her hobbies to create opportunities for success.
Abilities / Powers
While Kaede does not exhibit supernatural powers, her standout skills include her ability to manage her dual business ventures effectively. Her expertise in skiing not only allows her to connect with customers but also serves as a key aspect of her character. There are no combat abilities to note, as her character operates within a slice-of-life genre focused on interactions rather than conflict.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Kaede’s development is mostly subtle, representing the everyday challenges faced by young adults. Her pivotal moments primarily involve her interactions with the younger characters, particularly showcasing her development as a responsible caretaker. Key episodes feature her bonding with Renge during sweet-making sessions or ski outings, highlighting her growth not just as a business owner, but as a person. Her dual roles of running a candy shop and a ski rental operate as metaphors for her aspirations and connections within the community.
Notable Relationships
Kaede’s relationships significantly enhance her character depth. She shares a close bond with Renge, often taking an active role in her life as a protective figure and sometimes engaging in light-hearted teasing. Kaede’s interactions with Kazuho, her senior during her time at Asahigaoka Branch School, reveal her respect for those older than her, contributing to her growth narrative. Additionally, her rapport with the other members of the main cast, such as Hotaru and Natsumi, emphasizes her community-oriented spirit.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Kaede’s memorable moments occurs in episode 7, where she assists Renge in making a candy bouquet, showcasing her nurturing side. Another iconic line is when she humorously reacts to being called "Candy Store," emphasizing her discomfort with the name while illustrating her more relatable traits as a young adult balancing responsibilities. These moments reveal her softer side and endear her to fans.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Kaede is popular among fans, evidenced by her inclusion in member favorites—603 individuals have marked her as a favorite character. Her character design complements the series’ overall aesthetic, characterized by soft colors and relatable young adult themes. The Japanese voice actor for Kaede, Akemi Okamura, brings warmth and charm to the character, while the English dub features a performance from Rebecca Forstadt. These voices help shape the character’s perception across different audiences, resonating well with the show’s slice-of-life emotionality.
In fandom discussions, Kaede often emerges in conversations surrounding the theme of nurturing friendships and community spirit present in Non Non Biyori, further solidifying her role as a beloved supporting character. Her dual business ventures and protective demeanor resonate with themes of responsibility and entrepreneurship, making her a relatable figure for young adult viewers.
