From loyal companions to comedic sidekicks, anime mascots have captured our hearts with their charm, quirks, and memorable appearances. Here’s a look at ten of the most iconic and adored mascots in anime history. Who’s your favorite?
No.1 — Sadaharu
From: Gintama
Sadaharu is Kagura’s beloved pet and a prominent member of the Odd Jobs crew. He was abandoned outside their office and later adopted by the gang, with Kagura naming him “Sadaharu.”
Covered in pure white fur and blessed (or cursed?) with a rather aggressive nature, he’s particularly fond of biting Gintoki’s head. Sadaharu has a voracious appetite rivaling Kagura’s, and she often uses him as a mount.
He’s actually a mythical beast called an Inugami, whose true power awakens after consuming goat’s blood and red fruits—or even strawberry milk, surprisingly.
SADAHARU!!!
No.2 — Chopper
From: One Piece
Chopper is both the Straw Hat Pirates’ doctor and their mascot. Once a regular blue-nosed reindeer, he gained the power of human speech, thought, and movement after eating the Hito Hito no Mi (Human-Human Fruit).
He gets extremely shy when complimented, and his “hiding” skills are hilariously ineffective. Chopper can transform into different forms—three basic ones naturally, and up to seven with his own invention, the “Rumble Ball.”
No.3 — Bepo
From: One Piece
Bepo is the navigator and second-in-command of the Heart Pirates. A white-furred Mink from Zou Island, Bepo may not be a main character, but his cute looks and polite speech won over many fans.
He practices a martial art reminiscent of Chinese kung fu, and like all Minks, transforms into a powerful “Sulong” form under a full moon.
He’s emotionally fragile, often apologizing profusely when scolded.
Together with Chopper, they’re the Rumble Duo—lowest bounties, highest energy.
No.4 — Kirara
From: Inuyasha
Originally the companion of the priestess Midoriko and now loyal to Sango, Kirara is a two-tailed nekomata. In her small form, she’s fluffy and cat-like. But when transformed, she becomes a flying, flame-wreathed beast used for transportation and battle.
She’s more than just cute—Kirara’s claws and fangs are sharp, and she’s fiercely loyal. She even helps with fishing and sparring with Inuyasha. Truly the ultimate all-rounder!
No.5 — Nyanko-sensei
From: Natsume’s Book of Friends
His real name is Madara, a powerful beast sealed inside a lucky cat statue. Upon release by Natsume, he takes the form of a plump, sake-loving cat and becomes both mentor and guardian to Natsume.
Nyanko-sensei has a big appetite and a bigger ego. He’s lazy, mischievous, and not above bullying weaker yokai—but always comes to Natsume’s rescue in critical moments.
No.6 — Pikachu
From: Pokémon
The undisputed icon of Japanese pop culture, Pikachu is a yellow Electric-type Pokémon with pointy ears and an infectious smile. Loved for its cuteness and loyalty, Pikachu has brought joy to fans across generations.
It’s not just a mascot—it’s a global phenomenon.
No.7 — Hawk
From: The Seven Deadly Sins
Hawk is Meliodas’s talking pig sidekick and the “Captain of the Leftover Disposal Knights.” He helps manage the mobile Boar Hat Tavern and wears a tiny placard on his ear.
While mostly comic relief, Hawk can transform into creatures he eats and gains combat abilities—he’s more than just laughs.
No.8 — Happy
From: Fairy Tail
A magical Exceed from Edolas, Happy was sent to Earthland before birth and raised by Natsu. This flying blue cat is cheerful, snarky, and fiercely loyal.
He’s more than comic relief—Happy is family to Natsu, and even risked his life to stop him from dying in battle. He may look cute, but he’s got heart.
No.9 — Monokuma
From: Danganronpa
A half-white, half-black robotic bear who serves as the “principal” of the despair-inducing school. Monokuma is sadistic, manipulative, and thrives on chaos.
He’s capable of combat, omnipresent through his many clones, and always ready to torment the students. A true villain wrapped in a deceptively cute exterior.
No.10 — Elizabeth
From: Gintama
Elizabeth looks like a silent, expressionless white mascot—but don’t be fooled. Originally a prince from another planet, he lost his memory and was adopted by the Renho.
Given to Katsura by Sakamoto, Elizabeth communicates with flashcards at lightning speed and is a master of comic timing. Some say he’s actually a mustached man in a costume—complete with hairy legs.
