Tokiya Ichinose embodies calm reserve and intense discipline, initially maintaining an enigmatic distance from others. His exceptional vocal talent and technical prowess as a singer are matched by a formidable work ethic, while his composed exterior often conceals profound inner turmoil.

Born Hayato Ichinose, childhood stardom as an actor and singer bred isolation and eroded his trust in relationships, which he came to view as transactional. Trapped by his manufactured idol persona, he abandoned both career and birth name. Seeking anonymity, he enrolled at Saotome Academy as Tokiya Ichinose, deliberately avoiding the idol course.

His innate talent inevitably drew attention, forcing a reluctant confrontation with his past identity and motivations for singing. Through interactions—especially with the protagonist and ST☆RISH—his solitary worldview unravels. He gradually forges genuine bonds and rediscovers music not as a burden, but as authentic expression and connection, directly confronting the pain and experiences that shaped him.

Within ST☆RISH, Tokiya evolves from guarded loner to reliable, supportive member. Though consistently level-headed and serious, he reveals deep loyalty and care for the group. He occasionally mentors others, reflecting his maturity. His singing transcends technical perfection, embracing emotional vulnerability. Learning implicit trust, he finds strength in collaboration.

His dynamic with Shining Saotome shifts from viewing him solely as the director who forcibly recruited him into idol work, to recognizing Shining as a demanding yet insightful mentor who understood his potential, fostering profound respect. Tokiya maintains polite professionalism toward rivals like QUARTET NIGHT, engaging in a focused rivalry with Ranmaru Kurosaki. While retaining thoughtfulness, elegance, and quiet intensity, he grows markedly warmer and more approachable through ST☆RISH, embracing their shared mission to move audiences through music.