Eikichi is a character from the historical fantasy series Shabake. He is a young man who works making and selling sweets, a trade he shares with his father, as he mentions having a batch made by him and returns to making sweets as part of his normal routine. He is a key figure close to the protagonist, Ichitarou, and serves as his truest friend. Unlike many other characters who are overprotective of the frail Ichitarou, Eikichi acts as an agent to help him expand his world beyond the confines of his sheltered life.

In terms of personality, Eikichi can exhibit a cold and practical side, particularly in his conversations with Ichitarou about the lives of common people and matters of the heart. This stark practicality reveals an undercurrent of darkness in his character that provides a contrast to the more comforting supernatural elements of the story. Despite this, he is a loyal friend who shows concern for others, such as when he informs Ichitarou’s brother, Ichinosouke, that their sibling Matsunosuke is in trouble.

Eikichi’s role in the story is closely tied to his relationship with Ichitarou. As the protagonist’s truest ally, he helps him navigate the world beyond his home, acting as a bridge to the outside world that Ichitarou’s poor health otherwise prevents him from experiencing. He is directly involved in the unfolding mysteries and dangers of the plot. For instance, he is accosted by a samurai while carrying financial assistance from Ichitarou to his brother, an event that brings a central crisis closer to the protagonist. He is also present during key confrontations, such as when a volatile customer threatens Ichitarou at the shop. His motivations stem from his bond with Ichitarou, choosing to help him investigate strange occurrences rather than simply shielding him from them. There are no notable supernatural abilities attributed to Eikichi in the available information; his significance comes from his role as a practical, grounded, and loyal friend.