Yūka Sasahara is Kaede Saitō's classmate throughout middle school and high school. She exhibits a persistent concern for Kaede's safety during climbing activities, establishing a protective element central to their relationship. This consistent focus on Kaede's well-being defines Yūka's interactions within the group across the series. She features in every season of the anime, encompassing the third season and the later series *Encouragement of Climb: Next Summit*.