One of the most recognizable and lasting motifs in anime is the portrayal of characters with strikingly unusual hair colors. From epic high-fantasy sagas to relatable school life dramas, viewers can expect dynamic characters flaunting vibrant hues, such as bright blues, purples, and other fantastically bold shades. Notably, many of these hair colors appear to be completely natural, implying that they require no artificial dyeing.
Among the colorful spectrum, red hair stands out as a somewhat more realistic option. Often, characters with crimson locks exhibit fiery tempers and reckless tendencies. Here, we explore some iconic female anime characters celebrated for their alluring red hair. This list includes characters from diverse age groups, extending even to those in their 20s.
Updated March 28, 2025, by Mark Sammut: The Winter 2025 season has seen an influx of red-haired anime girls, prompting the addition of well-deserved topics to our comprehensive discussion. Accompanying galleries for the highlighted characters have also been included for visual reference.
36 Lu Shaotang
Sakamoto Days
- Japanese VA: Ayane Sakura
Despite falling short of perfectly capturing its remarkable source material, Sakamoto Days proves itself entertaining, eagerly paving the way for a sequel season. Lu Shaotang makes her entrance partway through the first season, positioned as the series’ third major protagonist alongside Sakamoto and Shin, and she certainly delivers memorable moments throughout her appearances.
A skilled fighter wishing to break free from her family’s past, Lu embodies the blend of humor and action that characterizes Sakamoto Days. Her spirited drunken brawl against Obiguro showcases her fluid transition between comedy and combat, promising an engaging rise if the second season continues to develop her character.
35 Kusuri Yakuzen
The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You
- Japanese VA: Ayaka Asai
Given the quirky premise of The 100 Girlfriends, introducing a red-haired character was inevitable, and Kusuri Yakuzen appears early on. As the fifth girlfriend featured, she emerges as a pivotal figure due to her scientific expertise. While she may not take the lead role, her experiments often unleash the series’ most hilarious and absurd story arcs.
For instance, Kusuri concocts potions that cause body switching and infantile transformations, almost leading to apocalyptic scenarios in one episode. Her dynamic character evolves through two distinct forms, ensuring she leaves a lasting mark in the storyline.
34 Akari Akaza
Yuru Yuri
- Japanese VA: Shiori Mikami
Considered among the finest anime portraying “cute girls doing cute things,”YuruYuri first presents Akari Akaza as the main character, only to witness her gradually stepping into the background, ultimately ranking as the fourth most important character.
This design was intentional, as her gentle nature tends to pale in comparison to her more flamboyant schoolmates. Though she may not create the most striking impressions, Akari endears herself to viewers, delivering moments of comedic relief over the series.
33 Nena Trinity
Gundam 00
- Japanese VA: Rie Kugimiya
Initially, Nena Trinity and her brothers appear to be trustworthy allies of the paramilitary group Celestial Being, saving them during a fierce battle. However, their violent tendencies and selfish nature soon prove detrimental to the group, with Nena being the most pernicious among them. Her impulsiveness contributes to the conflict between Earth’s factions against Celestial Being.
Although Nena makes a poor ally, her role as an antagonist intensifies in the second season. Under the guidance of Wang Liu Mei, she becomes an unpredictable force driven by her self-interest, solidifying her place as a memorable villain in the franchise.
32 Benten
Urusei Yatsura
- Japanese VA: Yuko Mita (1981 series); Shizuka Ishigami (2022 series)
Benten is part of Lum’s circle of otherworldly friends, including Oyuki and Ran. Known for engaging in spirited competitions with Lum’s Oni clan, Benten rapidly garners popularity despite her few appearances.
Her fiery demeanor, paired with a rebellious biker aesthetic, complements her character’s vibrant red hair. Benten is the quintessential tomboy, adept at using her charms to navigate situations to her advantage, firmly establishing her as a memorable figure in the series.
31 Kushina Uzumaki
Naruto
- Japanese VA: Emi Shinohara
Kushina Uzumaki, Naruto’s mother, plays a subtle yet impactful role in the series. A former host of the Nine-Tails, Kushina faced bullying due to her vibrant red hair, leading to a fiery temper that only her partner, Minato Namikaze—the Fourth Hokage—could soothe.
Although her screentime is limited, as she appears mainly as a spirit helping Naruto manage the Nine-Tails, her legacy resonates strongly within the narrative, making her a beloved figure among fans.
30 Koume Sawaguchi
Blue Seed
- Japanese VA: Kotono Mitsuishi
Koume Sawaguchi serves as an agent of the Terrestrial Administration Center (TAC), dedicated to combatting the supernatural threats known as Aragami. Working alongside protagonist Momiji Fujimiya, Koume showcases both combat prowess and support.
Embodying the quintessential spirited red-haired character, Koume displays a fierce attitude and an affinity for heavy weaponry. While her ‘go big or go home’ mentality defines her combat style, she also conceals a sensitive side, adding depth to her character.
29 Ikuyo Kita
Bocchi The Rock!
- Japanese VA: Ikumi Hasegawa
Exploding onto the anime scene in late 2022, Bocchi the Rock! features protagonist Hitori “Bocchi”Goto, alongside her vibrant friend and bandmate, Ikuyo Kita. Full of energy and charisma, Kita contrasts sharply with Bocchi’s reserved nature.
Their friendship blossoms as Kita joins the Kessoku Band, illustrating her commitment to success despite initial anxiety. While not the most talented musician, her enthusiasm and willingness to learn enhance the group’s dynamic.
28 Shura Kirigakure
Blue Exorcist
- Japanese VA: Rina Sato
Shura Kirigakure serves as an elite exorcist within the True Cross Order. Initially tasked with infiltrating True Cross Academy to identify Satan’s influence, she unexpectedly decides to guide Rin Okumura in mastering his demonic powers due to their shared history with his adoptive father.
Contrasting with her striking red hair, Shura possesses a laid-back demeanor and a casual attitude, even when interacting with superiors. Nonetheless, when duty calls, she demonstrates intense dedication and becomes an adept teacher for both Rin and the other Exwires.
27 Eris Boreas Greyrat
Mushoku Tensei
- Japanese VA: Ai Kakuma
Eris Boreas Greyrat, a distant cousin of Rudeus, becomes a significant character in his life after they are stranded together during the Telescopic Incident. However, a tragic misunderstanding causes a rift between them for several years, deepening Rudeus’s emotional journey.
This spirited and impulsive character takes pride in her combat skills, particularly her swordsmanship. While her instincts in battle are remarkable, her shortsightedness in personal matters often necessitates Rudeus’s support.
26 Morgiana
Magi: The Labyrinth Of Magic
- Japanese VA: Haruka Tomatsu
Morgiana possesses extraordinary strength and agility, having once been enslaved by her abuser, Jamil. Rescued by Alibaba and Aladdin, she forges deep bonds with them while seeking her homeland and ultimately becomes a supportive ally to Alibaba’s aspirations as a ruler.
Though her experiences may have calmed her temperament, Morgiana’s journey leads to a rediscovery of her cheerfulness and vivacity as she warms up to her friends over time.
25 Cutie Honey
Cutie Honey
- Japanese VA: Eiko Masuyama (original)
Cutie Honey is recognized as one of the earliest heroines in manga, first emerging in 1973. An android, Honey Kisaragi transforms into the titular character to combat villains, with her creator, Go Nagai, claiming that she stands as the pioneering female protagonist in shonen manga.
This character is a parody of the magical girl genre, evident in her whimsical transformations. Cutie Honey combines a sense of justice with playful mischief, fighting with a blend of exuberance and determination. While the original series may show its age, the character’s legacy continues, influencing modern reboots and adaptations.
24 Tia Noto Yoko
Bastard!!
- Japanese VA: Yuka Koyama (1992 OVA), Tomori Kusunoki (2022 ONA)
Tia Noto Yoko is the sole daughter of the Great Priest Geo Noto Soto and a childhood friend to Lucien Renlen. However, their relationship takes a dramatic turn as Lucien unveils his identity as the reincarnation of the ancient wizard Dark Schneider, only to be unsealed through Yoko’s kiss.
Though initially viewing Dark Schneider as an unwanted influence over her friend, Yoko’s perspective shifts as she begins to appreciate his more redeeming qualities. Their tumultuous interactions form a unique dynamic that fuels much of the narrative’s intrigue.
23 Asuna Kagurazaka
Negima! Magister Negi Magi
- Japanese VA: Akemi Kanda
Asuna Kagurazaka is an early acquaintance of young teacher Negi Springfield, offering a mix of camaraderie and conflict. Their relationship evolves from a rocky beginning into a close bond of friendship and support.
With a spirited, sometimes arrogant demeanor, she challenges Negi, even as she emerges as an elder sister figure during their magical duels. Despite her frustrations with the troubles Negi’s magic invites, she remains a steadfast ally.
22 Tomo Aizawa
Tomo-chan Is A Girl!
- Japanese VA: Rie Takahashi
Tomo Aizawa is depicted as the lively childhood companion of Junichiro Kubota. A quintessential tomboy, she is fully invested in her love for Junichiro, only to find herself trapped in a friendship that clouds his view of her as more than just a buddy.
Dissatisfied with her friend’s inability to recognize her romantic feelings, Tomo tries to adopt a more feminine demeanor. However, her natural tomboyish spirit often shines through as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery while striving to convey her emotions.
21 Rika Nonaka
Digimon Tamers
- Japanese VA: Fumiko Orikasa
Rika Nonaka, known as Ruki Makino in Japan, is a key figure in Digimon Tamers, recognized as the series’ third installment. An accomplished Digimon card player, she earns the moniker “Digimon Queen”through her tournament victories.
Initially, Rika showcases a fierce and combative personality, appropriate for the intensity of her vibrant hair hue. She is singularly focused on her victories, but her partnership with her Digimon, Renamon, allows her character to evolve, leading her toward a more empathetic and noble path.
20 Suletta Mercury
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury
- Japanese VA: Kana Ichinose
As a fresh protagonist in the Gundam franchise, Suletta Mercury emerges as its first female lead. Transferring from Mercury, Suletta is characterized by her awkward excitement and longing to form connections with others.
Despite her social anxiety, Suletta’s prowess shines when piloting her mobile suit, Aerial. Witnessing her journey toward confidence and self-assurance enhances the audience’s connection to her character.
19 Shirayuki
Snow White with the Red Hair
- Japanese VA: Saori Hayami
Shirayuki is an aspiring herbalist living in the Kingdom of Tanbarun, recognized for her stunning red hair. While she seeks a tranquil existence, her hair attracts unwanted attention from Prince Raj, who insists she becomes his concubine.
Shirayuki’s flight to the adjacent Kingdom of Clarines marks the beginning of her independence. There, she utilizes her herbal knowledge as a royal herbalist and demonstrates resilience and intelligence, proving she can thrive autonomously.
18 Kagura
Gintama
- Japanese VA: Rie Kugimiya
Kagura is a primary member of Gintama’s central trio, known for her strength and humor as part of the Odd Jobs crew. As an alien from the powerful Yato race, Kagura’s overwhelming strength often leads her to funny misadventures in Edo, where she meets allies like Gintoki and Shinpachi.
Both a parody of typical battle shonen heroines and a vital part of Gintama’s enduring legacy, Kagura helps the series navigate a remarkable 300-episode run.
17 Makima
Chainsaw Man
- Japanese VA: Tomori Kusunoki
As the head of Public Safety Division 4, Makima’s mission centers on eliminating Tokyo’s devil threats. However, while she works towards maintaining peace, her enigmatic nature and sinister motives create an unsettling aura.
Makima’s unsettling charm captivates characters like Denji and Aki, highlighting her complex role within the series.