Kikyōya Rihei functions as a merchant character within the Ikkyū-san narrative universe, operating distinctly as part of the merchant class in the stories' setting. His primary role involves presenting challenges or scenarios demanding problem-solving, often acting as one of the figures whose schemes or actions Ikkyū counters through wit and intelligence. Kenichi Ogata voices this character consistently throughout the Ikkyū-san media, encompassing both the television series and associated films.