Series & First Appearance
Momiji Binboda is a character from the anime and manga series Binbougami ga!, created by Yoshiaki Sukeno. She first appears in Chapter 1 of the manga, which debuted in 2008. The anime adaptation followed, airing in 2012, produced by Sunrise.
Profile at a Glance
Momiji is over 100 years old, and while her apparent age is that of a young girl, she serves as a poverty god, aiming to restore a balance of fortune by reclaiming good luck energy that was taken by the protagonist, Ichiko Sakura. Although she often engages in mischief and plots to steal Ichiko’s energy, her interactions with her evolve into a unique dynamic characterized by an undeclared truce.
Personality & Motivations
Momiji is characterized as lazy and self-serving, frequently bemoaning her flat chest and engaging in schemes to reclaim good luck energy. Despite her initial antagonistic role toward Ichiko, she displays a hint of vulnerability and softness, particularly when she transitions from her mischievous persona to a caring one after being cleaned. Her driving motivation is to restore balance to the energy in her world, which leads her to make questionable decisions in her quest for Ichiko’s luck.
Abilities / Powers
As a poverty god, Momiji possesses the unique ability to absorb good luck energy from others. This power is rooted in her unconventional hygiene practices; her strength comes from not bathing for years, allowing her to maintain a distinct aura that fosters her abilities. However, if she cleans herself—most notably after being scrubbed by Ichiko and Ranmaru—she loses her scheming edge and becomes sweeter. Ironically, she can revert to her mischievous state by physically soiling herself.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout the series, Momiji navigates her conflicting desires to reclaim Ichiko’s luck while developing a complex relationship with her. Key story arcs include her attempts to confront Ichiko directly and the eventual consequences that arise from her mischief. The turning point comes during her time in the public bath with Ichiko and Ranmaru, leading to a significant transformation in her character and revealing her multi-faceted nature. This arc illustrates the thematic importance of balance—between luck and misfortune, as well as between personal desires and broader responsibilities.
Notable Relationships
Momiji has a complicated relationship with Ichiko, oscillating between enemy and reluctant ally. Their interaction is marked by a blend of rivalry and an unexpected camaraderie, especially when Ichiko’s need aligns with Momiji’s lazy tendencies. Ranmaru, another significant character, serves as a mediator between the two, illustrating the theme of friendship that emerges in the face of adversity.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the standout scenes occurs when Momiji is forcibly bathed by Ichiko and Ranmaru, leading to her unexpected transformation from a lazy, scheming deity to a sweet and caring individual. This pivotal moment highlights the series’ central theme of reformation through self-awareness. Not only does it impact her relationship with Ichiko, it also serves as a testament to her complexity as a character. A memorable quote capturing her essence is, "Luck is a fickle mistress," which echoes her struggles and philosophies throughout the series.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Momiji Binboda has amassed a considerable fan base, with 865 member favorites on MyAnimeList, reflecting her popularity within the anime community. Her character design, marked by her playful and whimsical aesthetic, contributes significantly to her appeal. In the Japanese version, she is voiced by the talented Kana Hanazawa, known for bringing depth to various anime characters. The English adaptation features an equally impressive performance, resonating with both Japanese and international audiences. Her character draws on traditional themes of fortune and misfortune found in Japanese folklore, enriching the narrative tapestry of Binbougami ga!. She also satirizes tropes found in shonen and shoujo genres, adding a layer of comedy and commentary that fans appreciate.
Momiji Binboda stands as a complex figure within the Binbougami ga! universe, showcasing a blend of humor, heart, and the essential struggle for balance in the pursuit of personal desires. Her journey reflects relatable themes of insecurity, motivation, and the often-overlooked beauty of imperfections.
