Masaki Takigawa is the senior priest of Yata Shrine and later assumes the role of coach for the Kazemai High School Kyudo Club, holding a fifth dan rank in kyudo. He began rigorous kyudo training at age three under his grandfather, eighth dan master Akihiro Yasaka. Despite winning the Inter-High tournament in his third year of high school, his grandfather dismissed the victory as "playing around." This rejection, compounded by Masaki developing target panic (hayake), triggered a prolonged estrangement. He ceased practicing within his grandfather's territory and avoided university club involvement, instead seeking instruction from an out-of-prefecture master. His grandfather's passing during this period prevented reconciliation, leading Masaki to undertake a ritual atonement: shooting ten thousand arrows at Yata no Mori Kyudojo, completing one hundred shots daily.

Tall and lean with defined biceps from training, Masaki has shoulder-length black hair (later cut shorter) and striking blue eyes described as "bewitching." He typically wears kyudo hakama. His personality contrasts with his refined appearance; he maintains a laid-back demeanor, dislikes formality, and insists on being called "Masa-san." Daily tasks often reveal a sloppy attitude, but kyudo practice transforms him into a figure of intense focus. He communicates effectively, offering thoughtful advice, particularly to Minato Narumiya regarding target panic. He maintains a deep connection to nature, caring for Fuu, an owl he rescued and rehabilitated. His interests include cafe visits, reading, hitchhiking, and canned coffee, while he dislikes eggplant due to its texture.

His relationship with Minato Narumiya is central. After noticing Minato observing his practice, Masaki recognizes the younger archer's struggle with target panic, mirroring his own past. He mentors Minato, sharing experiences to encourage his return to kyudo. This mentorship evolves when Masaki becomes Kazemai's coach, aiming to guide the team to nationals. His coaching style balances approachability with stern technical instruction. Their backstories intersect, as Masaki was present when young Minato first witnessed his grandfather's kyudo, sparking Minato's initial interest. Masaki's unresolved conflict surfaces when he admits his coaching motivation stems partly from a desire for "revenge" against his grandfather's legacy. This drives him to visit his grandfather's friend, Osone, seeking understanding, though a car accident interrupts the journey. During the crash, Masaki shields Minato, resulting in his hospitalization. He later sneaks out to watch Kazemai compete in the prefectural finals.

Beyond Minato, Masaki maintains significant relationships. His stepbrother, Tokyo-based illustrator Ren Takigawa, provides occasional support at Yata Shrine and observes Masaki's emotional growth post-reconciliation with kyudo. Tomio Morioka, Kazemai's kyudo advisor and longtime acquaintance, offers guidance and encourages Masaki's coaching. Masaki's kyudo technique demonstrates exceptional skill, consistently hitting the target center and achieving 211 consecutive hits. His approach emphasizes harmony with the environment, reflecting his appreciation for natural aesthetics.

Trivia notes his name meaning "elegant precious," favorite foods (ginger pork, coffee), hobbies (cafe visits, photography), and driving skills. He resides near a temple, prefers owls over cats or dogs, and expresses no desire for time travel, choosing to live in the present.