Hanae Yamanaka is an elderly woman who appears in the anime Ajin. She lives alone in a house located in a remote rural village, and her daily life is characterized by the quiet solitude typical of her age. Her hair is gray, and she has black eyes.

Yamanaka plays a small but significant role in the life of the protagonist, Kei Nagai. After Kei is forced to flee from society due to being hunted as an Ajin, a demi-human, he seeks refuge in the countryside. Yamanaka agrees to take him into her home, believing his cover story that he is her grandson. In her sanctuary, Kei finds a temporary safe haven where he can rest and observe the news about the manhunt unfolding around him. She is a retired woman who appears to live a simple and unassuming life, offering her hospitality without asking for much in return.

Her role in the story becomes more active when Kei's true identity as an Ajin is discovered by the villagers. Despite the danger and societal hysteria surrounding demi-humans, Yamanaka does not betray him. When an angry mob led by a neighbor named Kita comes to her door demanding she hand Kei over, she protects him by answering the door herself, allowing him the chance to escape through a back window. Her loyalty to her guest puts her in grave danger, as Kita later takes her hostage to lure Kei back. This event demonstrates her courage and the bond of trust formed between her and Kei. After Kei rescues her, she remarks that he acted like a real man should, acknowledging his bravery in the face of peril.

Information about her background before the events of the series, her personal motivations beyond offering shelter, any significant character development she undergoes, or any notable abilities is unavailable. Her relationships are largely defined by her brief but impactful connection with Kei and her tense confrontation with the hostile villagers.