Genbu is one of the Twelve Shinsho, the divine guardians serving under the main protagonist, Abe no Masahiro, in the Shonen Onmyouji series. He is specifically known as the Water General, a title that reflects his command over the element of water. His outward appearance is that of a young boy with black hair and gray eyes, a look that belies his age and status as a powerful spiritual being.

True to his role as a defensive master, Genbu possesses a calm and quiet disposition. He rarely speaks out of turn and maintains a composed demeanor even in challenging situations. However, beneath this tranquil exterior is a pragmatic individual who is not afraid to speak his mind. This trait is most often seen in his interactions with his fellow Shinsho, Ta'in, where he frequently finds himself having to temper her more impulsive and rash ideas with a firm reprimand. While he is a capable divine general, his skills are heavily weighted toward protection rather than direct offense, and he is considered not very skilled in combat compared to some of his peers.

Within the narrative, Genbu's role is primarily that of a support guardian. He acts as a reliable source of magical defense for Masahiro and the other characters. His water-based powers are often utilized for creating barriers, defensive constructs, and other protective techniques. A notable ability attributed to him is the power to create images on a water mirror, a skill likely used for scrying or communication. Among the Twelve Shinsho, his most significant relationship is with Ta'in. The dynamic between the quiet, defensive Genbu and the more aggressive, rash Ta'in serves as a consistent and grounding element within the group, with Genbu often acting as her anchor and voice of reason.