Mimiko, a spirited orphan girl, resides in her grandmother’s bamboo-grove home. When her grandmother departs for a Nagasaki memorial service, Mimiko embraces solitude with cheerful optimism, her energetic and trusting nature undimmed by the absence of parents. Discovering a baby panda named Panny at her doorstep, she swiftly bonds with him and welcomes his father, Papa Panda, as her newfound guardian. She nurtures Panny with maternal care while mentoring Papa Panda in parenting tasks, such as zoo employment, showcasing her adaptability in forging non-traditional family ties.

Her appearance—twin red ponytails, black eyes, a pink dress over a yellow shirt, yellow shoes, and white underwear—complements her lively demeanor. A playful habit of performing handstands often results in her dress flipping up, humorously exposing her underwear, a testament to her exuberant personality.

Mimiko’s adventures span rescuing Panny from a floodgate, confronting bullies, aiding his school escape, and befriending Tiny, a circus tiger cub. She reunites Tiny with his mother and helps save animals during a flood, demonstrating courage, curiosity, and a knack for collaborative problem-solving—even when risking her own safety.

Inspired by Pippi Longstocking’s independence and hairstyle, and echoing Studio Ghibli protagonists like Mei, Mimiko interacts whimsically with creatures, embodying themes of familial love. Her fearless innocence leads her to trust strangers openly, inviting visitors inside and eagerly anticipating potential burglars.

Though her orphaned background remains unchanging, it anchors her unique family bonds rather than fueling emotional strife. The narrative forgoes long-term growth, instead framing her as a steadfast emblem of resilience and joy, confronting each challenge with unshakable positivity.