Bokuriko, a shapeshifting forest spirit dwelling in the sacred woods, first crosses paths with Miyori during her childhood near an ancient cherry tree. Appearing initially as a playful bear cub, he later shifts into a towering bear to drive off her family’s dog. A decade on, he resurfaces as a tiger during her explorations, though Miyori dismisses these encounters as dreams until her sensitivity to spirits awakens.

When dam construction encroaches on the forest, Bokuriko transforms into a golden eagle to mimic a critically endangered species that could legally halt the project. Scouts targeting the “eagle” wound him, prompting the cherry tree spirit to heal his injuries—a testament to the guardians’ shared resilience.

Joining forces with Miyori and fellow spirits, Bokuriko employs his transformative prowess to thwart hunters, blending protective instincts with strategic deception. His tactics evolve with each threat, shifting forms to outmaneuver those endangering the woods.