Gennosuke Higaki, a master of jujutsu, serves as the narrative's primary antagonist. He champions the rival Ryōi Shintō-ryū school against Sanshiro Sugata's judo. Shadows and swirling winds accentuate his imposing presence.

His rivalry with Sanshiro intensifies over their affections for Sayo Murai, culminating in Higaki challenging Sanshiro to a duel. Sanshiro prevails, inflicting injuries that leave Higaki permanently disabled.

Subsequent years bring severe deterioration; Higaki suffers a debilitating, terminal illness, implied as an indirect consequence of his defeat and humiliation. Physically weakened and psychologically transformed, he abandons vengeance, seeking reconciliation and peace.

Higaki intervenes to dissuade his brothers, Tesshin and Genzaburo, from pursuing revenge against Sanshiro. In an act of redemption, he imparts strategic insights into karate techniques to aid Sanshiro against the brothers' challenge. His arc concludes as Sanshiro transports him by rickshaw for a final view of the city. An encounter with Sayo inflicts fresh anguish, prompting Higaki to enclose the rickshaw and depart alone toward his impending death.