Wanyuudou from “Jigoku Shoujo”: A closer look at the mysterious assistant

Personality

Wanyuudou, also known as “A Wheel Entering the Road,” is a fascinating character from the anime series “Jigoku Shoujo” (Hell Girl). Despite his mild-mannered appearance, Wanyuudou possesses considerable martial arts skills. He is loyal and dedicated to his role as assistant to Enma Ai, the Hell Girl. Wanyuudou is often seen as calm and collected, but his past reveals a more complex nature. He carries a deep sense of guilt and remorse stemming from his failure to save a princess and her retinue during the samurai era. This tragic incident led to his transformation into a vengeful yōkai known as Wanyuudou.

Background

Wanyuudou’s background is shrouded in mystery. According to the series, he was a driver for a princess’s entourage during the samurai era. However, he failed to protect her, and she died as a result. This traumatic event marked the beginning of his existence as a Yōkai. Throughout the series, it becomes clear that Wanyuudou and his two colleagues owe a debt of gratitude to Enma Ai for saving them from falling into Hell. This debt serves as a driving force behind Wanyuudou’s loyalty and dedication to assisting Ai in her mission to transport souls into the depths of Hell.

Appearance

Wanyuudou’s appearance varies depending on the circumstances. In his human form, he appears as an elderly man with mostly closed eyes, wearing a traditional fisherman’s hat and old-fashioned Japanese clothing. However, when he accompanies Ai into the human world, he takes the form of a burning wheel on her carriage. This fiery manifestation is a striking representation of his yōkai nature and serves as a symbol of his connection to Hell. Wanyuudou’s transformation into a wheel is reminiscent of the folklore surrounding the yōkai known as “Firewheel” or “Soultaker”.

Abilities

Despite his unassuming appearance, Wanyuudou possesses impressive martial arts skills. He is adept in combat and can hold his own against opponents when necessary. In addition to his physical prowess, Wanyuudou is knowledgeable about the workings of Hell and assists Enma Ai in her duties as Hell Girl. He assists in identifying those who have contracted with Ai and plays a crucial role in carrying out their punishments. Wanyuudou’s skills and knowledge make him a valuable asset to the Hell Girl’s operations.

Origin

The origins of Wanyuudou can be traced back to Japanese folklore and mythology. The concept of a wheel as a symbol of punishment and retribution is prevalent in various mythological traditions. In the case of Wanyuudou, his transformation into a flaming wheel after the tragic incident during the samurai era is consistent with the yōkai folklore surrounding the “firewheel” or “soultaker”. This connection to folklore adds depth and cultural significance to Wanyuudou’s character, highlighting the rich tapestry of Japanese supernatural lore present in Jigoku Shoujo.

Wanyuudou – FAQ

Who is Wanyuudou in “Jigoku Shoujo”?

Wanyuudou is a character in the anime series “Jigoku Shoujo”, also known as “Hell Girl”. He is one of the main characters and serves as Ai Enma’s loyal assistant.

What is Wanyuudou’s role in Jigoku Shoujo?

Wanyuudou acts as a companion and helper to Ai Enma, the protagonist. He assists her in fulfilling her duty of transporting people’s souls to hell. Wanyuudou is responsible for driving the carriage that transports Ai and her clients to the realm of the supernatural.

What does Wanyuudou look like?

Wanyuudou looks like an old man with a long white beard and hair. He wears traditional Japanese clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and a kimono. He often carries a pipe and walks with the help of a cane.

What are Wanyuudou’s abilities?

Wanyuudou has several supernatural abilities. He has the power to transform into a large wheel, allowing him to quickly transport Ai and her clients. He can also manipulate fire and use it as a weapon. In addition, Wanyuudou has extensive knowledge of the supernatural realm and provides guidance to Ai and her clients.

What is Wanyuudou’s personality like?

Wanyuudou is known for his calm and collected demeanor. He is wise, patient, and dedicated to his role as Ai’s assistant. Despite his intimidating appearance, Wanyuudou shows kindness and compassion to clients seeking revenge. He often offers moral guidance, encouraging people to think twice before condemning someone to hell.

How did Wanyuudou become involved with Ai Enma?

The exact details of how Wanyuudou became associated with Ai Enma are not explicitly explained in the series. However, it is implied that Wanyuudou was once a human who made a pact with Ai, becoming her loyal servant in exchange for his own salvation. As a result, he now assists Ai in her mission to exact revenge on those who seek it.