Hijikata Toshizō is a central figure in the Miburo, a band of masterless samurai operating in Kyoto during the tumultuous Bakumatsu period. He is the one who directly recruits the protagonist, Chirinu Nio, after observing his actions during a rescue from kidnappers, recognizing a shared desire for justice in the young boy. Hijikata’s interest is piqued by Nio’s sharp observational skills and his passionate, unfiltered reaction to being used as bait, seeing a potential in him that aligns with the Miburo’s principles.

In terms of background, it is known that Hijikata is the youngest of ten siblings and was raised with a great deal of care and affection by his entire village. His motivation for joining the Miburo and coming to Kyoto stems directly from a desire to repay that love. He views his mission as cleaning up the city and ridding it of the bandits and criminals who terrorize its citizens. This background informs his unwavering commitment to justice and the protection of the vulnerable, which is a driving force behind his actions.

Personality-wise, Hijikata is renowned for his stern discipline and strategic brilliance. He enforces a rigorous order within the Miburo, solidifying his reputation as a formidable and pragmatic leader. He is often portrayed with a rigorous expression, but he is also noted for his quite handsome appearance. His approach to problems is highly tactical, as demonstrated when he and Okita Sōji use Nio and his sister as bait to draw out a group of child kidnappers, a decision that prioritizes the success of the mission despite its moral complexities. While his demeanor is outwardly stern and stoic, he possesses a strategic and calculating mind, balancing the group's idealistic pursuit of societal change with the harsh necessities of survival in a turbulent era.

Hijikata’s role in the story is that of a leader and catalyst for growth. As a skilled swordsman and strategist, he is central to the Miburo’s operations. His relationship with Nio is a key dynamic, functioning as a mentorship where his demanding leadership pushes the boy to understand the harsh realities of their world. This relationship highlights the tension between authority and camaraderie, as Hijikata often prioritizes the collective’s survival over individual sentiment, yet fosters Nio’s development. His key relationships also include figures like Okita Sōji and Kondō Isami, with whom he shares a mutual respect and a deep, shared dedication to their cause. His interactions with these fellow leaders showcase his ability to collaborate while enforcing discipline.

Hijikata’s development is closely anchored to his escalating responsibilities within the Miburo. His leadership style adapts as the group faces increasing external threats, such as clashes with rival factions like the Chōshū loyalists, as well as internal challenges. Although he is not the main protagonist, fleeting moments reveal his awareness of the moral complexities of their struggle, suggesting an internal depth beneath his stern exterior. His portrayal consistently emphasizes his unwavering loyalty to the Miburo’s mission, his strategic ingenuity, and his stoic adherence to duty as the group progresses toward its eventual reformation into the Shinsengumi.

Hijikata is noted for his notable abilities, which are twofold. First, he is a highly skilled swordsman, proficient enough to engage dangerous adversaries in combat. Second, and perhaps more distinctly, he is a brilliant schemer and strategist. His tactical expertise is a crucial asset that helps the Miburo navigate the political and physical dangers of Kyoto, placing him as a central figure in the group’s efforts to bring order to the city.