Hinata begins as an unusually warm egg carried by the Sage of the Garden of Clouds; accidentally dropped during flight, it lands in the Garden of Rainbows. Discovered by Hikari due to its warmth, the egg hatches into a small yellow bird-like creature. Initially mistaken for a penguin or chicken, it demonstrates clear preferences by reacting negatively to names like "Poochie," "Blanket," or "Heater" suggested by Nagisa. Hikari names it "Hinata," referencing its inherent warmth.

Hinata's true nature is later revealed as a Houou (phoenix), a mythological being tasked with maintaining warmth and peace across all worlds. As a Houou chick, it shows determination through persistent attempts to fly despite its immature size and wings. It forms close bonds with Hikari, who cared for it after hatching, and the fairy companions Pollun and Lulun. Using masculine pronouns when speaking, Hinata displays loyalty to those it trusts while holding grudges against individuals like Nagisa who offended it earlier.

The creature becomes central to the film's conflict when captured by dark servants Freezen and Frozen, who intend to exploit its life force to extinguish all warmth. Trapped within an ice crystal, Hinata's power manifests during the climax, freeing the frozen Pretty Cure warriors. This act enables Nagisa and Honoka to achieve a phoenix-themed power upgrade, ultimately defeating the villains and restoring balance.