Taki Tachibana

Taki Tachibana is the main male character in the popular Japanese animated film Kimi no Na wa (also known as Your Name), directed by Makoto Shinkai. He is a 17-year-old high school student who lives in Tokyo and works part-time at an Italian restaurant. Taki is known for being hardworking, kind, and sometimes quick-tempered. His life takes a surprising turn when he starts swapping bodies with Mitsuha Miyamizu, a girl from a rural town, through a mysterious connection in their dreams. Throughout the film, Taki embarks on a journey to meet Mitsuha in person and uncover the truth behind their strange bond.
Trivia/Facts
- Taki Tachibana is a 17-year-old high school student living in Tokyo. He manages his time between school, a part-time job at an Italian restaurant, and hanging out with friends. Taki dreams of becoming an architect and is passionate about art and design. His life takes an unexpected turn when he starts swapping bodies with Mitsuha Miyamizu, a girl from the countryside.
- Taki is noted for his handsome appearance, with spiky brown hair and dark blue eyes. He has a slim build, and his look is completed by casual and school outfits. His impulsive personality often leads to minor injuries, as seen with the bandages on his face. He juggles being organized and spontaneous, often reflecting his artistic and creative nature.
- Taki’s standard school uniform consists of a white dress shirt, striped green tie, and dark blue blazer. At work, he wears a black vest and bow tie, looking formal and professional. Taki’s carefree and casual style can also be seen in his day-to-day wear outside school and work. His personality often shines through his choice of outfits, reflecting his mix of responsibility and spontaneity.
- Taki has a quick-tempered and blunt nature, which sometimes causes misunderstandings. He tends to speak without thinking, especially when nervous, but often corrects himself. Despite his temper, he is kind-hearted, caring, and protective of those around him. Taki’s assertiveness and determination help him stand up for himself and others, unlike Mitsuha who is more passive.
- Throughout the body-swapping experience, Taki becomes more confident and learns from his time in Mitsuha’s body. He inadvertently helps Mitsuha become more popular and confident as well. While Taki is charismatic and sociable, he struggles with romance and understanding his feelings. His awkwardness is evident during his date with Miki Okudera, where he remains unsure about his emotions.
- When Mitsuha’s town, Itomori, is threatened by a comet, Taki is determined to save her and the residents. He embarks on a journey to find her, using only his memories and sketches of the town. Even after learning that Mitsuha has died three years earlier, he refuses to give up. Taki’s persistence leads him to a mystical shrine, where he attempts to change the past.
- As an adult, Taki matures but retains his fascination with architecture and design. He works to create landscapes that are meaningful and memorable, just like his memories of Itomori. Deep down, he feels a sense of emptiness, as though searching for something or someone, even though he can’t remember Mitsuha. Eventually, Taki and Mitsuha are reunited, bringing closure to their shared journey.
- Taki’s background is not heavily explored, but it is known that he lives with his father, who is often busy. His parents are divorced, which might explain his independent and mature attitude. Taki’s connection to Mitsuha grows deeper as he learns about her life and family through the body-swapping. His determination and love for Mitsuha lead him to risk everything to save her and her town.
Taki Tachibana’s relationship with other characters
- Mitsuha Miyamizu: The central relationship in the film is between Taki and Mitsuha. They start off as strangers who mysteriously swap bodies through dreams. As they experience each other’s lives, they form a deep bond and eventually fall in love. Their connection drives the plot of the movie as they try to understand and reconnect with each other despite the obstacles.
- His Father: Taki’s father is supportive but somewhat distant. He runs a family business, and Taki often feels the pressure to help out and live up to expectations. Their relationship is respectful but not very close.
- His Sister: Taki has a younger sister named Yotsuha. They have a typical sibling relationship, with occasional teasing and support. Yotsuha plays a supportive role in Taki’s life, especially during the more stressful times.
- Okudera: Taki’s coworker and senior at the Italian restaurant. He has a crush on her and admires her, but their relationship is primarily friendly and professional.
- Miki: Taki’s friend who also works at the restaurant. Miki is supportive and often helps Taki navigate his personal and romantic challenges.
- Tiamia: A friend of Mitsuha who helps her with various personal and social matters.