Li Meiling is a supporting character from the anime Cardcaptor Sakura who appears in the first theatrical film, set between the first and second seasons of the television series. Originally from Hong Kong, she is the cousin and self-proclaimed fiancée of Syaoran Li. As a child, she became devoted to Syaoran after he went out in the rain to rescue her escaped pet bird, an act that deeply moved her. From that moment she declared her feelings for him and considered them engaged, though she also promised to step aside if he ever came to love someone else more. She travels to Tomoeda, Japan to be with Syaoran when he does not return to Hong Kong at the promised time.

Her personality is energetic, outspoken, and confident. She is highly competitive and does not hesitate to show off her abilities, which often puts her at the center of attention. Her initial approach to tasks is driven by speed and enthusiasm, sometimes leading to difficulty with activities that require patience, such as baking. Beneath her boastful exterior lies a caring and compassionate nature, as well as hidden insecurities. She is particularly self-conscious about her lack of magical power, which makes her feel she is a burden to Syaoran in magical encounters.

Meiling is motivated by a strong desire to support Syaoran and to be helpful to him. She also holds a deep wish to be loved by him in return. Initially, she views Sakura Kinomoto as a rival for Syaoran's affection and dislikes her, believing Sakura to be perfect and seeing her as a threat. However, as the series progresses, she develops a grudging respect for Sakura that grows into genuine friendship. By the time she returns to Hong Kong permanently, she has come to accept that Syaoran loves Sakura, and she formally calls off their engagement. In the sequence of events leading to and including the second movie, Meiling fully supports the relationship between Sakura and Syaoran and even helps Sakura confess her feelings.

In the first movie, Meiling accompanies the group when they travel to Hong Kong after Sakura wins a trip. She is a familiar presence in the city and guides the others around the Li family estate and Hong Kong locations. During the encounter with the vengeful spirit Madoushi, Meiling is captured along with Syaoran and other friends, trapped in a magical bubble. Her lack of magical abilities leaves her vulnerable in this confrontation, but she remains an active part of the group throughout the ordeal.

Key relationships include her deep bond with Syaoran, which evolves from a one-sided romantic attachment to a supportive cousinly friendship. Her relationship with Sakura develops from rivalry to close friendship, and she becomes a trusted ally alongside Tomoyo Daidouji. She also shares warm interactions with Tomoyo, who becomes a confidante during moments of emotional difficulty.

Her most notable ability is her skill in Chinese martial arts, which she trained in alongside Syaoran since childhood under the guidance of Wang Wei. This physical prowess allows her to be a capable fighter despite having no magical powers. However, her lack of magic often hinders her effectiveness in battles involving Clow Cards, as she cannot directly participate in magical confrontations. In some situations, her years of synchronized training with Syaoran allow them to work together effectively, such as when they fight against the Twin card.

Overall, Meiling's growth is defined by her journey from a jealous rival to a perceptive and supportive friend who prioritizes the happiness of those she cares about over her own desires.