Wakana Sawamura, the older brother of Setsu Sawamura, possesses near-black dark brown hair and eyes, with visible stubble on his upper lip and chin. He typically wears a light blue long-sleeved shirt. Despite his mature appearance, he is not yet old enough to legally consume alcohol.

Both brothers trained in Tsugaru shamisen from early childhood under their grandfather, Matsugorō Sawamura, continuing until his death. As the elder sibling, Wakana watches over Setsu. Their mother, Umeko Sawamura, largely abandoned her responsibilities, leaving Matsugorō to raise them. After their grandfather's passing, Wakana remains in their hometown while Setsu departs for Tokyo. Wakana maintains contact, offering guidance as Setsu struggles to forge a unique musical identity separate from Matsugorō's legacy.

An accomplished shamisen player himself, Wakana participates in national competitions. He demonstrates perceptiveness about Setsu's artistic challenges, notably mailing him a cassette recording of Matsugorō performing "Shungyou" (Spring Dawn). This intervention helps Setsu grasp their grandfather's final teaching: to "steal" the piece through personal interpretation, not imitation. Wakana's advice supports Setsu's pivotal step toward musical self-discovery.

Wakana exhibits maturity and emotional stability, often grounding his brother. He shows genuine concern for Setsu's well-being and artistic growth, a supportive dynamic that contrasts with other family relationships. Consistently, Wakana serves as Setsu's primary emotional anchor amid external pressures.