TV-Series
Description
Masaru Ōfuna is a supporting character in the anime Hanayamata. He is a thirty-three-year-old bachelor who runs a specialty shop called Yosakoi Masaru, which sells goods related to yosakoi dancing. Despite his intimidating appearance—he is bald, wears sunglasses, and has a build often compared to a yakuza—Ōfuna is in fact a friendly, warm-hearted, and generous person. He is deeply passionate about yosakoi and is eager to help those who are learning the dance.

His outwardly tough looks can initially frighten people, as seen when Naru Sekiya first meets him, but his genuine kindness quickly becomes apparent. Hana N. Fountainstand affectionately calls him "Big Brother," reflecting the close, informal bond he shares with the girls of the yosakoi club. Ōfuna serves as a reliable source of advice and practical support for Hana and Naru, offering guidance on yosakoi techniques and sometimes providing resources from his shop. His role in the story is that of a friendly neighborhood mentor who aids the main characters in their yosakoi pursuits without being directly involved in the school club.

In terms of relationships, Ōfuna develops a romantic interest in Sari Tokiwa, the school teacher and later formal advisor of the yosakoi club, after a chance encounter. His feelings for her are unrequited, as Sari does not seem to reciprocate his interest, but the two maintain a cordial acquaintance. He has no notable special abilities beyond his knowledge of yosakoi and his willingness to lend a hand. His character does not undergo significant development; he remains a consistently supportive and approachable figure throughout the series, providing a steady adult presence for the young dancers.
Cast