TV-Series
Description
Jukai Enno, often referred to as Abbot Jukai, is an elderly human man who serves as the host of the Kirin Temple. He is bald, has a white beard, and typically wears a monk's robe. Despite his advanced age, he is revealed to be the younger brother of Saki and is thus a 53rd generation descendant of the legendary Ozunu Enno, making him a step-great-uncle to the protagonist Chiaki Enno. In the original manga, he is considered a hidden main male role, around whom much of the story’s core interactions revolve.

In terms of personality, the portrayal of Jukai differs somewhat between the anime and manga. In the anime, Jukai often acts as a comedic figure, forming a comic duo with his fellow monk Kuribayashi. He frequently presents a facade of being a foolish or lecherous old man, often making wisecracks and crude comments about women, which usually results in Chiaki striking him with a fan. However, this playful and sometimes ridiculous exterior masks a highly gifted and knowledgeable intellect. He is a generalist skilled in a variety of fields, including medicine, martial arts, clothing design, and unconventional money-making schemes. He is highly creative, though his plans often lean toward the absurd, such as touring with the small, chibi form of the demon god Zenki like a circus act.

Beneath this lighthearted surface, Jukai is a serious and capable mentor. He is deeply dedicated to preparing Chiaki for her duties as an exorcist, imparting advanced martial arts techniques and secret spells passed down through the Enno family. While Kuribayashi tries to maintain the image of a serious monk, Jukai understands the value of levity but can become grave and focused when the situation demands it. His role in the story is primarily that of a guide and protector. He is entrusted by his sister Saki with the knowledge that Zenki would awaken during Chiaki’s lifetime, and he holds the secret spells necessary to control the demon god. Early on, Chiaki views him with annoyance due to his perverted comments, but she eventually comes to realize the depth of his wisdom and the sadness he hides, leading her to spend more time at the Kirin Temple to keep him company.

His key relationships are central to his character. As a mentor to Chiaki, he provides her with training and guidance while also engaging in their signature bickering. He shares a close working relationship with Kuribayashi, who often follows Jukai’s creative if questionable advice. In the manga, their bond deepens significantly. After he saves her life, Chiaki shares a kiss with him, marking a turning point in their relationship, and she eventually moves into the Kirin Temple with him after the Enno Shrine is damaged.

Regarding development and abilities, Jukai is far more capable than he initially lets on. He demonstrates mastery of a martial art known as the Exotic Crane Dance, which he uses to defeat powerful enemies and later passes on to the deity Goki. His talents extend to designing and creating functional combat gear and costumes for Chiaki. As the keeper of the Kirin Temple, he acts as the steward of its legacy, hoping to find a qualified disciple to preserve its teachings. While often relegated to a supporting role in the anime’s action, the manga reveals him to be a surprisingly formidable fighter and a man whose cheerful demeanor conceals a life of sacrifice and hidden depth.