Line #120 Characters/SamuraiSentaiShinkengerShinkengers


1	[[center:[-[[Characters/SamuraiSentaiShinkenger Main Character Index]] \| '''Shinkengers''' \| [[Characters/SamuraiSentaiShinkengerAllies Allies]] \| [[Characters/SamuraiSentaiShinkengerGedoshu Gedōshū]]-]]]
2	!!The Shiba Clan
3
4	!!The Shinkengers
5
6	[[quoteright:350: https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/8cc6523a_40ed_4331_a9d4_003b2872c6dd.jpeg]]
7	[[caption-width-right:350: From left to right: [[LadyOfWar Shinken Pink/Mako Shiraishi]], [[AudienceSurrogate Shinken Green/Chiaki Tani]], [[BewareTheSillyOnes Shinken Gold/Genta Umemori]], [[FieryStoic Shinken Red/Takeru Shiba]], [[LargeHam Shinken Blue/Ryūnosuke Ikenami]] and [[TokenMiniMoe Shinken Yellow/Kotoha Hanaori]].]]
8
9	The Shinkengers are the 33rd Super Sentai, a group of samurai tasked to defeat the Gedoshu. Armed with the [=ShodoPhones=] , able to channel Mojikara and the Shinkenmaru, the 18th head of the Shiba clan and his loyal retainers continue to fight to ensure the Sanzu River does not overflow.
10	----
11
12	[[foldercontrol]]
13
14	[[folder: In General]]
15	* TheAlliance: The Shinkengers are the current batch of an inter-generational alliance of samurai families.
16	* EverythingsBetterWithSamurai: Five of them, to be exact! Genta's more of a ninja.
17	* ExperiencedProtagonist: It has been explicitly stated that all of the Shinkengers have been training since childhood to properly prepare against their fight with the Gedoushu. This is proven in the first episode where each member of the team is already an MasterSwordsman and are shown to wield their respective preferred weapons with great proficiency.
18	* LegacyCharacter: The current team is the 18th iteration of the Shinkengers, having inherited their titles from their parents.
19	* RunicMagic: The Shinkengers possess Mojikara, which allows them to weaponize Kanji for various elemental attacks.
20	* {{Samurai}}: It's in the name.
21	* TwoGirlsToATeam: Mako and Kotoha are the only women on the team. [[spoiler: Kaoru]] doesn't count, as she doesn't stay on.
22	[[/folder]]
23
24	----
25
26	[[folder:Takeru Shiba / Shinken Red]]
27
28	!!Takeru Shiba/[[red:Shinken Red]] (XVIII/XIX)
29	!!!'''Portrayed by:''' Tori Matsuzaka (live), Hirofumi Fukuzawa (suit), Riichi Seike (substitute)\
30	'''Young Takeru portrayed by:''' Masaki Takaiwa
31	-----
32
33	[[quoteright:350:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Shinkenger_Takeru.jpg]]
34	[[caption-width-right:350:''"Shinken Red. Shiba Takeru."'']]
35	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see him as ShinkenRed]]\
36	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/77b3fc5f_3aed_4ff4_b390_7045a2ffe9b6.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
37	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see him as SuperShinkenRed]]\
38	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/8302bf8c_02f4_42b5_bf1f_aae37c19cd49.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
39	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see him as HyperShinkenRed]]\
40	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/af01ab7b_6f54_4dab_a33a_7553538bafa0.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
41
42	->''"For once, I am impressed!"''
43
44	The 18th and current head of the Shiba clan. [[TheStoic Looks stern]], but actually pretty nice; [[{{Tsundere}} he'll try to hide it though]]. Takeru initially [[IWorkAlone went against Jii's urging and tried to fight the Gedoushu alone]], mainly because [[ItsNotYouItsMyEnemies he knows the toll facing them would take on his retainer's life.]] Once the first Ayakashi of this invasion appeared, however, he was forced to give in.
45
46	Takeru grew up being groomed as the Shiba Clan's Lord. He faces most things in life, from fighting to training to winning a card game with his vassals, [[SeriousBusiness with the gravity and dignity of a samurai lord]].
47
48	[[spoiler:It is later revealed that Takeru's father actually served the head of the Shiba Clan and that Takeru's position is that of a [[BodyDouble kagemusha]] as the true heir, Kaoru Shiba, had not even been born yet and was not of age to take the position of lord.]]
49
50	-----
51
52	* AwesomenessByAnalysis: It's heavily implied that along with his raw power and nearly flawless technique, he's able to read the situation at an insane speed; this allows him to overcome enemy techniques at a blink of an eye.
53	* BerserkButton: While this goes for ALL the Samurai, Takeru has a special hurt coming for you if you harm one of his vassals. And do not question his commitment to the Shiba Clan's task. However, see BreakingSpeech below.
54	* BloodKnight: Downplayed. There are various hints that Takeru likes fighting. Unlike the battle-addict Juzo however, Takeru never lets this come between him and his duties. Near the end of the show, he undergoes a HeroicBSOD after [[spoiler: Kaoru re-takes command]] and resigns himself to combat with Juzo, but Takeru's friends arrive to emotionally support him.
55	* BodyDouble: [[spoiler:Towards Shinkenger's end game, it's revealed that Takeru is '''not''' the true 18th head of the Shiba Clan and his purpose is to act as one while the true head, Kaoru, trains in secret]].
56	* BrainwashedAndCrazy: In the ''Goseiger'' crossover, Takeru is warped by Buredoran and Madakodama into Gedou Shinken Red - essentially the battle-monster Juzo wanted him to become. In this state, Takeru's a force of nature that takes both teams to bring back to normal.
57	* BreakingSpeech: Every second time they meet, Juzo is pulling this on Takeru. Juzo often calls Takeru's qualities as a warrior into question, making this also a case of pushing a BerserkButton to goad Takeru into fighting him.
58	* CatchPhrase: He started the two {{Catch Phrase}}s which [[PhraseCatcher the others picked up]] pretty quickly.
59	* TheComicallySerious: A steadfast, serious samurai who faces everything with the same serious outlook, whether it be fighting off Gedoshuu or ''playing cards''.
60	* ConvenientlyOrphaned: Nothing is known about his mother, and his father died at the hands of Dōkoku and his forces.
61	* DeathSeeker: After [[spoiler: Kaoru returns and takes her place as the real head of the Shiba Clan]], Takeru believes he has nothing else to live for and resigns himself to battle with Juzo. The other Shinkengers find him and reaffirm their loyalty to ''him'' rather than the Clan, reminding him he has more to live for.
62	* {{Determinator}}: A textbook example.
63	* DefrostingIceKing: It was slow at first, but he eventually goes from an absolute GoodIsNotNice stoic to an affable leader who's more willing to have his NotSoAboveItAll moments as well as his NotSoStoic moments.
64	* DeliberateInjuryGambit: How he beats Juzo in their climatic duel.
65	* ElementalPowers: Takeru is the only Shinkenger to have used more then one element.
66	** PlayingWithFire: His primary element.
67	** ShockAndAwe: The Lightning Disk in his arsenal can execute lightning attacks. However, he uses it only a couple of times early in the series.
68	* EvenTheGuysWantHim: Adding to his ShipTease with both Mako and Kotoha, the three other guys are really fond of him in their own ways: Ryuunosuke is a smitten and devoted YesMan, Chiaki gradually has a better opinion on him and acts quite like a type B {{Tsundere}}, and Genta is his ChildhoodFriend who really likes to play with him.
69	* FaceDoodling: Chiaki's #1 prized victim.
70	* FaceMonsterTurn: [[spoiler:BrainwashedAndCrazy in the ''Goseiger vs. Shinkenger'' movie, complete with a [[DarkIsEvil blackened]] [[EvilCounterpart version]] of the [[SuperMode Super]] [[BadassLongcoat Mode]] and his use of the Hyakka Ryouran to boot.]]
71	* FinishingMove: ''Shin Kaen no Mai''[[note]]True Fiery Dance[[/note]]
72	* FirstNameBasis: While Ryuunosuke, Jii and Kotoha address him as "Tono" ("Tono-sama" in Kotoha's case) respectfully, Chiaki and Mako go for the more informal way by calling him "Takeru".[[note]]This reflects how Chiaki sees Takeru as more of a competitor than a superior, and how Mako sees herself as a mother/big sister figure to the team.[[/note]] Genta later takes it even further by using "Take-''chan''". Episodes #2 and #32 has him outright state that he doesn't really care how others refer to him.
73	* [[FourTemperamentEnsemble Five Temperament Ensemble]]: Choleric with Melancholic tendencies
74	* FreakyFridayFlip: The basis for his recurring embarrassment with ink cat whiskers. He'll probably never live it down...
75	* GeniusBruiser: His winning in battle is not only because his technique and raw strength is used, but he's also able to read the situation and also the enemy techniques and characteristics and he knows how to overcome them efficiently. Acts 3, 9, 12, 16, 18, 19 & 31 are good examples of this.
76	* GoodIsNotNice: Despite his stern and strict leadership, he did this for the best of his retainers, especially Chiaki.
77	* HeroicBSOD: Goes through them quite a bit throughout the series.
78	* ImageSong: Matsuzaka is the only member of the cast not to sing one. Instead, we get Young Fresh singing about Takeru with clips of dialogue sampled in. The song is aptly called "''Shinken Red, Ippitsu Sōjō!''".
79	* InstantExpert: Averted. Takeru's been training, arguably since he can remember, to fight the Gedoushu.
80	* ItsNotYouItsMyEnemies: Non-romantic example here: The reason Takeru had been refusing to call for his vassals, or deal with any other person for that matter, is more because [[BecauseDestinySaysSo as the lord of Shiba clan]], [[DoomMagnet he will clash with Gedoushu again and again]], and there will be victims sooner or later [[JerkWithAHeartOfGold even if he doesn't want it]]; despite what his [[JerkAss initial demeanor]] will have you believe.
81	** [[spoiler:That and he does not believe a [[BodyDouble shadow warrior]] deserves a lord's respect.]]
82	* IWorkAlone: This is how he started out, but [[DefrostingIceQueen he gradually softens up]] over the course. In his defense, though, he ''was'' a lot better than the rest back then, having prior experience. He's also got a decent reason for this attitude, too, [[spoiler:as he doesn't want anyone to give their life for a lie.]]
83	* JerkWithAHeartOfGold: Aloof and keeps insisting on [[IWorkAlone working alone]], before turning into a Tsundere from friendship.
84	* LampshadeHanging: Because he borders on TheComicallySerious, Takeru often ends up making sure those bulbs aren't bare; mainly when he's introduced with an overly long presentation spee-
85	--> '''Takeru''': Too long.
86	* LawOfChromaticSuperiority: The first one to don the [[BadassLongcoat Super and Hyper Shinkenger attires]] and the [[spoiler:Mogyu Bazooka]]. He also gets to control the [[spoiler:Ushi Origami]] by himself.
87	* LiarRevealed: [[spoiler:Happens in #44 and #45.]]
88	* TheLeader: He's of the levelheaded and charismatic variety, being the most experienced and stoic of the group.
89	* LightningBruiser: Can carry his giant sword without being bothered by the weight itself. His reflexes are also quite insane, able to endure lots of punishment when fighting against Juzo and the moment when he's [[spoiler:DualWielding the two Rekka Daizantou against Doukoku in the final episode.]]
90	* MasterSwordsman: His swordsmanship is very impressive compare to any character. There's a reason why Juzo is obsessed in beating him.
91	* MeaningfulName: "''Shi''"/"Will(power)", and "''Take''" related to variations of "Strength" and "Hero", describing his [[TheDeterminator Determinator]] [[TheHero Hero]] status.
92	* MirrorCharacter: TheReveal in #44 and #45 makes him one to both Kotoha and Kaoru:
93	** He is revealed to be [[spoiler: a kagemusha, and thus, not being the "true" 18th Shinken Red as he was substituting for a yet-to-be-born Kaoru. This parallels Kotoha's own situation and feelings about not being the "true" Shinken Yellow due to substituting for her ill sister, with Takeru is just much better at hiding and handling his depression and insecurity than Kotoha is until right around the end of the series.]]
94	** Kaoru very much resembles whom Takeru was at the beginning of the series: a distant and almost cold figure dedicated to the mission of defeating the Gedoshu that hides a far more kind and caring side to their character.
95	* NotSoAboveItAll: When he is first confronted by Mako's cooking (she is making dinner for Ryunosuke while he is on a stake-out), he turns to Chiaki and asks, "Do you think that Ryunosuke will survive?" with a small smirk on his face.
96	* ParentalAbandonment: Takeru witnessed his father die during Doukoku's raid on the Shiba Clan manor.
97	* PrettyBoy: His actor, Tori Matsuzaka, already fits the mold pretty damn well. Add Takeru's Tsundere traits and [[EvenTheGuysWantHim even the guys are squeeing]].
98	* RedOniBlueOni: The blue to Ryunosuke and Genta's red.
99	** During ''Shinkenger vs. Go-Onger'', he's the blue oni to Sosuke's red oni.
100	* SensitiveGuyAndManlyMan: During ''Goseiger vs. Shinkenger'', he's the manly man to Alata's sensitive guy.
101	* SeriousBusiness: From fighting hellspawns to confronting bad cooking or playing cards, Takeru seems to face all challenges thrown his way in the same demeanor. When his {{Determinator}} side emerges, this can make him a bad opponent to be fighting. When his tsuntsun side emerges, this can make the man nigh-unbearable to deal with.
102	* SignatureMove:
103	** Shinkenmaru: ''[[FlamingSword Kaen no Mai]]''[[note]]Fiery Dance[[/note]]
104	** Rekka Daizantou: ''Hyakka Ryōran''[[note]]Many Fires Profusion[[/note]]
105	* TheStoic: Outdone by none, [[spoiler:save Kaoru, who's even higher on the scale]]. One small smile on his lips speaks volumes.
106	** NotSoStoic: Also a prominent part of his nature, as it is seen slowly emerging throughout the series.
107	** This is one of the reasons he didn't want Genta on the team. He knew that there was no possibility of keeping a straight face with him around. Genta's formal introduction to the team proved him right.
108	* SuperpoweredEvilSide: [[spoiler:As Gedou Shinken Red in the ''Goseiger vs. Shinkenger'' movie. He can take on and overpower his own team and the Goseigers with no effort.]]
109	* TeamDad: Has shades of this. He is always the first to put himself in danger for his retainers' safety and even though he is strict, fastidious, and extremely disciplined (especially in training and battle), he deeply cares about his teammates' well-being such as when he [[spoiler: mediates Chiaki and Ryuunosuke's squabble in episode 15's ending moment]] and is [[spoiler: proud of his teammates in secret, especially towards Chiaki (the rebel who is an extremely creative, quick-witted strategist in his own right) and Ryuunosuke (the annoying YesMan that made great innovations in their Samurai Gattai in episodes 12 and 35).]]
110	* TookALevelInBadass: Quite a pants-wetter as a child, according to Jii. Now? Well, just take a look at the above examples.
111	* TrueCompanions: Despite being unwilling to summon his vassals initially, he grew to like and warmed up to them, little by little. Well past the halfway point of the series, he's ''really'' fond of them, and won't tolerate any harm done to them, a feeling which the others also return. Which is why he says that [[spoiler:he's got nothing left when he's taken away from his friends after TheReveal]].
112	* {{Tsundere}}: Instances vary from subtle to straight, often pairing with HeroicBSOD for added "fun".
113	%%** SwissArmyWeapon: Rekka Daizantou[[note]]''Blazing Great Slicing Sword''[[/note]]
114	%%*** {{BFS}}: Standard mode
115	%%*** {{BFG}}: [[AllYourPowersCombined Ozutsu Mode]]
116	%%** DualWielding: Takeru has proven to be quite capable with it, [[spoiler:be it sword-sword or sword-gun]].
117	%%*** Taken to the extreme [[spoiler:in the final episode, where he uses Tanba's personal ''mojikara'' disc to dual-wield the ''[[{{BFS}} Rekka Daizantou'']]]]!
118	%%** WhipSword: [[spoiler:Kyoryumaru, the first Shinken Red's sword and an Origami in itself.]]
119	%%** HandCannon: [[spoiler:Mogyu Bazooka]]
120	* WhatsUpKingDude: While he is disciplined as any lord of his prestige should be, Takeru has stated multiple times that he does not care about others showing him proper samurai etiquette or being seen as "lord-sama".
121	* WhyDidItHaveToBeSnakes: [[spoiler:Any sight of a HauntedHouse is enough to scare him]].
122	* WorthyOpponent: Seen by Juzo as the biggest one ever.
123	* YouKilledMyFather: His father died in a Gedoushu raid on the mansion.
124	[[/folder]]
125
126	[[folder:Ryunosuke Ikenami / Shinken Blue]]
127
128	!!Ryuunosuke Ikenami/[[blue:Shinken Blue]] (XVIII)
129	!!!'''Portrayed by:''' Creator/HirokiAiba (live), Yoshifumi Oshikawa (suit), Riichi Seike (substitute)\
130	'''Young Ryuunosuke portrayed by:''' Takumi Horikiri
131	-----
132
133	[[quoteright:350: https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Shinkenger_Ryuunosuke_5908.jpg]]
134	[[caption-width-right:350:''"Similarly, Blue. Ikenami Ryuunosuke."'']]
135	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see him as ShinkenBlue]]\
136	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/e519de33_1e64_4345_82d1_c0ed896ea5cc.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
137	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see him as SuperShinkenBlue]]\
138	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/8d49ca95_b3b4_4c86_8949_59f1921fc432.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
139
140	-> "[[ChewingTheScenery TONOOOO!!!!!!]]"
141
142	A kabuki actor prior to being [[HeroSecretService called to become Takeru's vassal]]. Very, ''VERY'' [[LargeHam dramatic]], partially thanks to his environment and upbringing. The YesMan to Takeru, and is [[ButtMonkey often played for comedy]], despite being [[TheLancer the second-in-command]].
143
144	Some fans were put off by Ryuunosuke’s large personality at first, [[RescuedFromTheScrappyHeap that judgement was very premature]]. Perhaps due to being the product of both samurai and kabuki training, underneath that [[LargeHam hammy exterior]] is [[CrouchingMoronHiddenBadass one of the most devoted and competent members of the team]].
145
146	-----
147
148	* BashBrothers:
149	** Him and Chiaki have an insane knack for combination attacks when they put aside their differences. Best seen in #37.
150	** Him and Genta have this dynamic when they figure out that their similarities can actually make them both stronger.
151	* BerserkButton:
152	** Having grown up in a traditional upbringing and a Kabuki business, he has strong attachments to both his parents. As such, calling him "''Faza-kon''"[[note]]"Father complex"[[/note]] or "''Maza-kon''"[[note]]"Mother complex"[[/note]] is one of the worst insults that he could ever hear.
153	** Go ahead and say/do something that could even vaguely be interpreted as insulting Takeru. '''[[SchmuckBait Go ahead.]]'''
154	* BokeAndTsukkomiRoutine: Tsukkomi to Genta's Boke.
155	* BrainwashedAndCrazy: In Act #9, with an OpenTheIris effect to boot.
156	* ButtMonkey: Less frequent after Act 7, but still an aspect.
157	* BunnyEarsLawyer: Considering that despite his LargeHam tendencies, he is still ''very'' good at what he does, not just samurai-wise, but on the kabuki stage as well. A later episode shows that he is not only a gifted performer, but also has dabbled in production, having arranged a performance program at a local theater.
158	* CatchPhrase: TONOOOOO!!!!
159	** Also, many variations on "Do not X our lord that way!"
160	* CharacterDevelopment: A subtle one, as he goes from an absolute YesMan to a person who's more than capable of making and handling his own decisions when the situation calls for it. He also mellows out a bit from his LargeHam tendencies, though it's still very much there.
161	* ChewingTheScenery: "TONOOOOO!!!"
162	* {{Crossdresser}}: Since Kabuki theater demands the actors to indiscriminately play both genders, he's the go-to-guy when it comes up. However, he thinks that his skill in this still needs work.
163	* CrouchingMoronHiddenBadass: ButtMonkey. LargeHam. {{Narm}} machine. Master fencer and archer. Second-in-command of a team of demon-slaying Samurai.
164	* [[DisproportionateRetribution Disproportionate Penance]]: If he realizes he made a big mistake to his friends, he won't be satisfied with just an accepted apology; he'll ''demand'' physical punishment to be administered to him. And he tends to go '''way''' over the top [[YesMan whenever his lord is involved]]. He does mellow out on this over the series though... ''a bit.''
165	* DoggedNiceGuy: More so early on. CharacterDevelopment hit shortly after Ryuunosuke got his ship sank by Mako. While he still does has his moments, they don't get in the way of his calling.
166	* DudeLooksLikeALady: The Shinkengers have him disguised as a bride in Act 8.
167	* FinishingMove: ''Shin Suiryu no Mai''[[note]]True Current's Dance[[/note]]
168	* ForceAndFinesse: He's the Force to Chiaki's Finesse.
169	* [[FourTemperamentEnsemble Five Temperament Ensemble]]: Sanguine, obviously with Choleric Tendencies.
170	* GeniusBruiser: He's not only trained in both ''kabuki'' AND ''samurai'' skills as well as basic Mojikara usage, but goes so far as to '''develop''' the [=TenkuuShinkenOh=] combination, complete with the ''kanji'' needed to activate it. While he's not TheStrategist like what Chiaki is, he's more than capable of pulling his own weight in both power and intelligence.
171	* HeroSecretService: Ryu-san is arguably one of the two most likely to instantly risk their lives for Takeru. In fact, any concern about his Lord's well-being can distract him in battle as Shinken Blue.
172	* ImageSong: "''Aonami Yonaoshi''"[[note]]''Blue Wave World Reformation''[[/note]]
173	* JumpedAtTheCall: '''Did he ever.''' While he's later shown to have some hesitations[[note]]Act 35.[[/note]], he's been a committed Samurai since Act 1.
174	* TheLancer: Ryunosuke is Takeru's second-in-command.[[note]]When the other four stand alone sans Takeru, note that they're always "Ryu-tachi" - "Ryu's group". Contrast his personality with Takeru, TheLeader, and you'll see why the early call on this role, Chiaki, is a little off. Yes, this time TheLancer is a hammy and hyperactive YesMan. And it ''works''.[[/note]]
175	* LargeHam: '''Boy, is he this!''' This is mainly due to him being a kabuki actor.
176	* MakingASplash: His element is Water.
177	* MeaningfulName: Ryunosuke: "''Ike''"/"Pond" and "''Nami''"/"Wave" represents his element. "''Ryuu''"/"Mannerism" refers to his well-mannered stature, and a homophone for "Dragon", his Origami.
178	* MightyGlacier: While Ryunosuke is indeed quite strong and sturdy, certain of his attacks are methodical and arranged. Unfortunately, he is not very good in deflecting, making him the one who endures Ayakashi attacks the most.
179	* MommasBoy[=/=]WellDoneSonGuy: Implied by Zuboshimeshi, the Ayakashi of insults.
180	* NiceToTheWaiter: On multiple occasions, he has been shown acting graciously towards the Kuroko, thanking them for their hard work and performing tasks himself that would normally be relegated to them. Of course, the Kuroko are usually horrified at the sight of one of the lord's retainers stooping himself to their level of servant work.
181	* OcularGushers: If this were an anime, Ryunosuke's teary moments would definitely end in these. Aiba deserves full credit here for invoking this, only without anime cues.
182	* OOCIsSeriousBusiness: When saving [[spoiler:Takeru from a blazing forest fire after finally coming to terms with where his loyalties lie, there's absolutely no {{Narm}} or [[LargeHam hamminess]] involved. Just complete, serious silence as he slices apart the flames and lets the others run in to bring Takeru to safety.]]
183	** [[spoiler:He later starts out his speech to Takeru by addressing quietly and calmly him by ''name''. That's earth-shattering compared to his usually hammy screaming of "TONOOOOO!!!!!".]]
184	* PluckyComicRelief: Often the guy who's on the receiving end of physical comedy and the one to make the most hilarious moments.
185	* RedOniBlueOni: The hammy red to Takeru's stoic blue. (One of two)
186	* SharpDressedMan: Out of all the members, he's the one to most often wear button-up shirts, dress pants, dress shoes, coats and waistcoats, generally looking more prim and proper than the others, who lean more towards a casual style.
187	* SignatureMove:
188	** Shinkenmaru: ''Suiryu no Mai''[[note]]Current's Dance[[/note]]
189	** Water Arrow: ''Meikyō Shisui''[[note]]Clear and Serene[[/note]]
190	* TheStarscream: PlayedForLaughs in the V-Cinema special. [[spoiler:Ryuunosuke's illusion involves him being the leader of the Shinkengers, making Takeru bow to him. While everyone called him out for it in the real world, Ryuu-san of course denied it and pointed out his HeroicSacrifice in the Sci-Fi illusion.]]
191	** Occasionally played for laughs, but as often for drama - Ryu-san takes his duty to his lord '''very''' seriously.
192	* TheStraightAndArrowPath: The Water Arrow.
193	* TrueCompanions: Ryunosuke seems to be trying to actively build the Samurai-tachi into this from day one. As is often the case with Ryu-san, half of his attempts are annoying as hell.
194	* VitriolicBestBuds: With Chiaki and Genta. Mostly because of the vast contrast in personalities.
195	* YesMan: Unquestioningly loyal to his Lord. [[spoiler:This leads to a HeroicBSOD after TheReveal when he feels his loyalties clashing.]]
196	[[/folder]]
197
198	[[folder:Mako Shiraishi / Shinken Pink]]
199
200	!!Mako Shiraishi/[[pink:Shinken Pink]] (XVIII)
201
202	!!!'''Portrayed by:''' Rin Takanashi (live), Sanae Hitomi (suit), Naoko Kamio (substitute)\
203	'''Young Mako portrayed by:''' Marina Nakajima
204	-----
205
206	[[quoteright:350: https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Shinkenger_Mako_2327.jpg]]
207	[[caption-width-right:350:''"Similarly, Pink. Shiraishi Mako"'']]
208	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see her as ShinkenPink]]\
209	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/282b93ff_bd1e_4396_b3b1_cfb111b8c523.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
210	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see her as SuperShinkenPink]]\
211	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/e996819b_2715_42de_a582_26b051239072.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
212
213	->''"Being our Lord doesn't necessarily mean you have to be perfect, you know?"''
214
215	Originally a kindergarten teacher. [[OneeSama Mature]], [[SugarAndIceGirl levelheaded]] and [[CoolBigSis reliable]]. [[TheHeart Always count on her to comfort whoever's feeling down]].
216
217	Mako was at first abandoned by her parents and was left to be raised by her grandmother. Her samurai training robbed her of any chance of a childhood like a normal girl; this shows big time in her protectiveness of children. She dreams of being a HouseWife, but [[LethalChef is really horrid at cooking]].
218
219	-----
220
221	* AffectionateNickname: Kotoha calls her "Mako-''[[UsefulNotes/JapaneseHonorifics chan]]''" while Chiaki and Dai Goyou both call her [[CoolBigSis "nee-san"]].
222	* BerserkButton: Hurt her true companions or children... and Nee-san's got your TranquilFury right here.
223	* BlowYouAway: Her powers are over wind.
224	* CoolBigSis: One of the most levelheaded and kind characters of the team.
225	* CooldownHug: Does this to anyone in need.
226	* DesignatedGirlFight: Tends to get matched in fights against Usukawa Dayuu. And after [[spoiler:witnessing Dayu's past in her dream]], she seems to be drawn to her in a fight, possibly due to part-sympathy.
227	* FinishingMove: ''Shin Tenku no Mai''[[note]]True Heavenly Dance[[/note]]
228	* [[FourTemperamentEnsemble Five Temperament Ensemble]]: Phlegmatic and Sanguine
229	* FreudianExcuse: Mako's desire to become a wife and have her own family stems from how she was forced to sacrifice her childhood for samurai training, which was something she initially didn't want.
230	* FriendToAllChildren: And anyone who's in need of a CooldownHug.
231	* GirlinessUpgrade: When it comes to Kaoru joining the team.
232	* GlassCannon: While her attack output and proficiency are nothing to scoff at, her defense is pretty poor when compared to the others.
233	* TheHeart: Is this to the entire team.
234	* ImageSong: "''Nadeshiko Shinken, Hanafubuki''"[[note]]Carnation Shinken, Falling Cherry Blossom''[[/note]]
235	** [[spoiler:In fact, she sings it in the V-Cinema special during her dream sequence of becoming an IdolSinger.]]
236	* LadyOfWar: Mako is a skilled swordwoman who fights with grace especially with her fan. In addition, her element is Heaven and she's the stoic TeamMom of the group.
237	* LethalChef: We can't stress this enough: '''DON'T!''' Touch. Mako's cooking... [[SeriousBusiness if you value your life]].
238	** In an interesting twist, Mako has never flipped off about this. Instead, she just admits that she still has a long way to go when she found out the boys were badmouthing her cooking.
239	* LightFeminineAndDarkFeminine: She's the dark to Kotoha's light. Also slightly lighter than Kaoru due to the latter's authority and absolute commitment to the Shinkenger's mission.
240	* MeaningfulName: "''Shiro''"/"White", the clouds in the sky, "''Ishi''", homophone for "Will", and "''Ko''"/"Child". Roughly translates as "Sincere child"; either herself or the nature of pure and innocent children she takes care of.
241	* OhCrap: When you see her holding an apron, run like the wind and ''don't look back''.
242	* OldMaid: In one episode, an enemy attacks her by calling her a "spinster."
243	* OneeSama: For the whole team, but to Kotoha especially.
244	* PaperFanOfDoom: Heaven Fan.
245	* ParentalAbandonment: She was raised by her grandmother, who wanted to train her as the next Shinken Pink, forcing her father to leave her behind and [[spoiler:take care of her crippled mother instead. They got a tearful reunion in Act 34.]]
246	* ReluctantFanserviceGirl: In the V-Cinema, Mako is more embarrassed that her illusion involves her getting into a cute idol outfit, stating that she never had any plans to become an idol, despite how Kotoha praised that.
247	* ShipTease: At first with Ryuunosuke, but she [[ShipSinking personally sent torpedoes to sink it]], showing her SugarAndIce qualities. Towards the end of the series, she was getting closer to Takeru, but then she got (comical) ShipTease with Chiaki ''and'' Kotoha in ''Shinkenger Returns''.
248	* SignatureMove:
249	** Shinkenmaru: ''Tenku no Mai''[[note]]Heavenly Dance[[/note]]
250	** Heaven Fan: ''Hakuryoku Manten''[[note]]Whole Sky Impact[[/note]]
251	* TheStoic: Not quite on Takeru's level, but she's usually calm enough.
252	** NotSoStoic: But when you throw in her parents to the picture.
253	*** Or when she feels the need to mother someone.
254	* SugarAndIceGirl: She's nice enough, but don't expect her to show you sympathy all the time. [[ShipSinking Just ask Ryuunosuke.]]
255	* TeamMom: She's essentially the team's psychologist thanks to a combination of being the oldest member of the group and also a trained teacher.
256	* YamatoNadeshiko: She has the serenity, the maturity, the nurturing nature and she fights with a paper fan! The only problem is [[LethalChef her cooking]].
257	[[/folder]]
258
259	[[folder:Chiaki Tani / Shinken Green]]
260
261	!!Chiaki Tani/[[green:Shinken Green]] (XVIII)
262	!!!'''Portrayed by:''' Shogo Suzuki (live), Yasuhiro Takeuchi (suit), Masaru Obayashi (substitute)
263	-----
264
265	[[quoteright:350: https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Shinkenger_Chiaki_3427.jpg]]
266	[[caption-width-right:350:''"Similarly, Green. Tani Chiaki."'']]
267	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see him as ShinkenGreen]]\
268	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/e8f4bf1d_d7ef_4205_84e6_a3b569dadbd2.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
269	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see him as SuperShinkenGreen]]\
270	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/a335f809_9f93_486f_a0cb_07a33c7955ad.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
271	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see him as HyperShinkenGreen]]\
272	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/44163cd1_9653_401b_a511_e0044bb4a358.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
273
274
275	->''"[[UnknownRival Someday, I'll definitely surpass you]]''"
276
277	The rebel to Takeru. Lax, and not a very good fighter to start, but [[TheSmartGuy a quick thinker]] who relies on [[BatmanGambit unorthodox methods]].
278
279	His growth over the series made early calls marking him TheLancer to be retracted. Chiaki, interestingly, seems to be the one to anchor the others to the 'reality' of being samurai in the modern age, often striving to get the others to relax or see things from another perspective. His fighting style and tactical approach starts and remains unorthodox-- and proves an asset.
280
281	-----
282
283	* BatmanGambit: As TheSmartGuy of the team, these are Chiaki's most badass moments.
284	* BashBrothers: When they aren't bickering their asses off, him and Ryuunosuke make one badass duo when they fight together. Best shown in #37.
285	* BerserkButton: Chiaki has been shown to be VERY protective of Kotoha, despite her being acknowledged as being a better Samurai than he is. He's the first to go charging blindly after the [[spoiler:Ayakashi that stole Kotoha's soul in Act 20]]. He later pulls one of his most clever Mojikara uses to [[spoiler:get Mako and his father out of a hostage situation]]. Go after the Wood Samurai's loved ones, get pwned.
286	* CharacterDevelopment: Remember the guy who refused to lower his head or even follow orders from a designated lord? Well, [[spoiler:guess who's the first one to happily lower his head when said lord is reinstated towards the end of the series]]. It can't get any more blatant than that, can it?
287	* FaceDoodling: If he's annoyed, or just for fun. Takeru is his prized doodle victim.
288	* FinishingMove: ''Shin Kogarashi no Mai''[[note]]True Winter Wind's Dance[[/note]]
289	* ForceAndFinesse: He is the Finesse to Ryuunosuke's Force.
290	* [[FourTemperamentEnsemble Five Temperament Ensemble]]: Sanguine Melancholic
291	* FragileSpeedster: He is quite fast and agile. However, most of his attacks, especially his FinishingMove, are just enough to scratch. He gets better throughout the series.
292	* GreenThumb: His element is Wood.
293	* ImageSong: "''Shinken days, Never give up, ''Dōchū''''"[[note]]''On the Journey''[[/note]].
294	* InstantExpert: Averted; he didn't take his training seriously, and was the weakest member in the beginning. In fact, the fact that Chiaki's training wasn't as intense actually justifies ConservationOfNinjutsu, and allows us the fun of seeing him [[TookALevelInBadass level up]].
295	* KidAppealCharacter: He's the guy whose personality and growth endears him to children
296	* MeaningfulName: "''Tani''"/"Valley", where trees grow; "''Chi''"/"Thousand", the abundance of trees and leaves; and "''Aki''"/"Dawn, Awaken", reminding of his late-bloomer trait. Also, his Kanji can be read "''Ki''".
297	* MechaExpansionPack: Kabuto Origami grants [=ShikenOh=] [[BeamSpam multiple long-range beam]] capabilities.
298	* TheRival: He considers Takeru as the person he'll surpass someday.
299	* ShipTease: Has lots of "moments" alone with Kotoha, who's another "junior" of the team like himself.
300	* SignatureMove:
301	** Shinkenmaru: ''Kogarashi no Mai''[[note]]Winter Wind's Dance[[/note]]
302	** Wood Spear: ''Taiki Bansei''[[note]]Large Treed Late Bloomer[[/note]]
303	* TheSmartGuy: One of two. He may not seem like it initially, but his quick thinking and unorthodox methods definitely make him qualify. It makes up for his initial lack of skill.
304	* SourSupporter: Initially. It's why many consider Chiaki as TheLancer early on.
305	* TookALevelInBadass: Chiaki takes several over the course of the series, as he neglected much of his training before he was summoned.
306	* TrueCompanions: Despite being the one who protested the most about his lifelong mission, he's also the first to [[spoiler:refuse to follow Kaoru as her retainer. If not for Takeru's personal request, he most likely would have walked off for good like Genta]].
307	** [[spoiler:Contrasting his initial feelings about Takeru, he is one of the first to speak against Kaoru taking over the team.]]
308	* VitriolicBestBuds: He initially didn't get along well with Ryunosuke, due to his attitude about his mission. As the series progressed, he still bickered with Ryunosuke, but not as much, and Act 37 shows that when not quarreling, they're downright complimentary in thought and deed.
309	* WeakButSkilled: What he makes up for in power is unorthodox methods and quick thinking. He may not be the strongest, but his plans ''work'' for a reason.
310	* ZorroMark: His default finisher with the [=ShinkenMaru=][[note]]Kogarashi no Mai[[/note]] involves carving his "wood" kanji [[PaintingTheMedium on screen.]]
311	[[/folder]]
312
313	[[folder:Kotoha Hanaori / Shinken Yellow]]
314
315	!!Kotoha Hanaori/[[gold:Shinken Yellow]] (XVIII)
316	!!!'''Portrayed by:''' Suzuka Morita (live), Miwa Hashiguchi (suit), Sanae Hitomi (substitute)\
317	'''Young Kotoha portrayed by:''' Ayu Matsuura
318	-----
319
320	[[quoteright:350: https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Shinkenger_Kotoha_3391.jpg]]
321	[[caption-width-right:350:''"Similarly, Yellow. Hanaori Kotoha."'']]
322	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see her as ShinkenYellow]]\
323	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/c3e83a81_ce3e_44fb_960c_fdd8d3b2cf7e.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
324	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see her as SuperShinkenYellow]]\
325	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/3d37d007_61a3_4961_a38a_0199a1749609.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
326
327	-> ''"Tono-sama?''"
328
329	A [[ShrinkingViolet shy, quiet]] and [[CuteClumsyGirl a bit clumsy]] country girl. Her loyalty to Takeru rivals even Ryunosuke's.
330
331	Originally, Kotoha's older sister was supposed to take the place of Shinken Yellow, but because she was often very ill, Kotoha became Shinken Yellow in her stead. Unlike the others at first, she had no regret in becoming Takeru's vassal, and willingly volunteered to serve him battle despite his initially cold personality.
332
333	-----
334
335	* BadassAdorable: Don't let her little {{Moe}} appearance fool you; her combat prowess is enough to rival even the best of them.
336	* ComicallyMissingThePoint: Frequently reacts to the part the rest of the team doesn't react to. [[spoiler:When Kaoru reveals she adopted Takeru, the others all react with shock that she adopted someone older than her, while Kotoha merely focuses on the idea of Kaoru being a mother (completely ignoring how young she is).]]
337	%% * TheCutie: Oh, is she ever!
338	* CuteBruiser: She may be cute, but she can hit just as hard as her fellow vassals.
339	* CuteClumsyGirl: Especially prevalent near the earlier part of the series.
340	* DishingOutDirt: Her element is earth.
341	* FinishingMove: ''Shin Tsuchikemuri no Mai''[[note]]True Dust Cloud's Dance[[/note]]
342	* [[FourTemperamentEnsemble Five Temperament Ensemble]]: Melancholic Phlegmatic
343	* FuumaShuriken: The Land Slicer.
344	* HeroicSelfDeprecation: She's a naturally talented combatant, but often thinks of herself as weak, clumsy, stupid, or any other variant and believes herself to not be worthy of the [=Shinken Yellow=] title. It takes her sister's letter from Act 41 for her to truly start growing out of this.
345	* ImageSong: "''Hannari, Metcha Bushidō Girl''"[[note]]''Elegance, The Extreme Girl''[[/note]]
346	* LightFeminineAndDarkFeminine: The light to Mako and, later, to Kaoru.
347	* MeaningfulName: Kotoha: "''Hana''"/"Flower" for her gentle and innocent nature. Combine with "''Ori''"/"To weave" and "''Kotoha''", possibly relating to "''Kotoba''"/"Words", and the result is a poetic meaning of "words beautiful as flowers weaved together", a nod to her soft-spoken nature.[[note]][[EveryoneIsJesusInPurgatory Or it could be overanalysis.]][[/note]]
348	* NoSell: A truly heartbreaking example; Kotoha was immune to an Ayakashi's power to incapacitate the Shinkengers with their negative inner thoughts because she really did believe she was weak, clumsy, stupid and a crybaby and had called herself those things so many times that the words had lost their sting.
349	* NiceGirl: Kotoha is very selfless, kind, and friendly.
350	* ThePollyanna: Very optimistic and is rarely seen downbeat.
351	* ReplacementGoldfish: She always felt like she had to live up to her sister, since she's taking her place as Shinken Yellow.
352	* ShipTease: The strongest indications of such are with both Chiaki and Takeru, though by series' end, neither pairing came to fruition.
353	* ShrinkingViolet: Was fairly shy and self-depreciating in the beginning. She gets better, especially after Act 41.
354	* SignatureMove:
355	** Shinkenmaru: ''Tsuchikemuri no Mai''[[note]]Dust Cloud's Dance[[/note]]
356	** Land Slicer: ''Funtō Doryoku''[[note]]All Out Earth Power[[/note]]
357	* SpinAttack: Her "''Sarumawashi''"[[note]]Monkey Spin[[/note]] and it's SuperMode variant.
358	* StoneWall: Her defenses are quite good, especially when fighting in [[spoiler: Act 36, even taking the Inromaru in order to match the enemy's SpinAttack]].
359	* WingdingEyes: Done for a gag during her illusion in ''Shinkenger Returns'', right as she's confessing to "Shiraishi-kun." Subtle at first, before becoming more blatant as she gets closer to saying the key words.
360	[[/folder]]
361
362	[[folder:Genta Umemori / Shinken Gold]]
363
364	!!Genta Umemori/[[cinnamon:Shinken Gold]]
365	!!!'''Portrayed by:''' Keisuke Sohma (live), Jiro Okamoto (suit)\
366	'''Young Genta portrayed by:''' Ryota Kashiba
367	-----
368
369	[[quoteright:350: https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Shinkenger_Genta_Crop.jpg]]
370	[[caption-width-right:350:''"Similarly, Gold. Umemori Genta."'']]
371	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see him as ShinkenGold]]\
372	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/33df2790_48d0_42e3_b795_840ba956a597.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
373	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see him as SuperShinkenGold]]\
374	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/4d0b1d1d_1b30_4415_a15a_266296755347.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
375	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see him as HyperShinkenGold]]\
376	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/05b7a503_f0af_427e_9807_554f65297de1.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
377
378
379	-> ''"Yosh! Now for the victory ''Ipponjime''!''"
380
381	Genta was a suspicious sushi seller who suddenly arrived in town. But when the Shinkengers were pinned down by the Ayakashi of the week, he revealed himself as Shinken Gold, and much to the vassals' surprise, Takeru's childhood friend.
382
383	Personality-wise, Genta is hyperactive and childish for his age, but like Ryunosuke, his capabilities are, albeit unintentionally, hidden beneath this behavior.
384
385	-----
386
387	* AstonishinglyAppropriateAppearance: His business attire and Ranger form all revolve around Sushi. Justified, in that Genta created most of his own arsenal by himself.
388	* AudienceSurrogate: The only Shinkenger who is an ordinary citizen and not born into a samurai family.
389	* BokeAndTsukkomiRoutine: Boke to Ryuunosuke's Tsukkomi.
390	* BunnyEarsLawyer: Would you believe that this LargeHam is a GeniusBruiser skilled in '''iaijutsu?'''
391	* CharacterTic: He tends to roll up his sleeves [[LetsGetDangerous once he gets serious]].
392	* ChefOfIron: He's a capable self-taught warrior, and his cooking skills are genuinely quite good. As long as what he's serving [[SoOkayItsAverage isn't sushi,]] that is...
393	* ChewingTheScenery: Expect him to do something remotely hammy whenever he shows up.
394	* CrouchingMoronHiddenBadass: [[http://s917.photobucket.com/albums/ad16/DrakosAmatras/Posters/UmemoriGenta.jpg Going quite far on both sides]].
395	* DeusExitMachina: Despite being powerful, Genta would often be absent from battles (presumably running his sushi stand) or sent off on a separate mission, while the others went to do something else.
396	* GadgeteerGenius: He reverse-engineered the Shinkengers' technology to build his own transformation device, weapon and Origami. Thanks to this talent, he becomes the go-to guy for creating brand-new PowerUp items for the team.
397	* GeniusBruiser: His abilities to manipulate Mojikara and create new mecha from scratch (as well as being just as capable in combat as the rest of them) firmly put him as this.
398	* HeyYou: He's the ''only'' one who dares call his Lord "Take-chan". Justified, as he ''is'' ChildhoodFriends with Takeru.
399	* IaijutsuPractitioner: He mastered this way of fighting - self-taught with a ReverseGrip, no less. His quickdraw ability is so fast that by sheathing his sword after each strike, he is able to ''[[BladeSpam spam it,]]'' making a dozen strikes before he even appears to have done anything.
400	* ImageSong: "''Gold Ninjō, Ipponjime''"[[note]]''"Gold Hospitality, Ipponjime"''[[/note]]
401	* {{Irony}}: The only person who truly loves Genta's sushi... is '''[[BloodKnight Juzo.]]'''
402	* LargeHam: He rivals Ryunosuke of all people in this department.
403	* LightEmUp: His element.
404	* {{Magitek}}: By reverse-engineering the Shinkengers' ancient Mojikara magic, he was able to invent a stronger modernized version known as ''Electronic Mojikara'', which requires him to simply ''text'' the kanji on his Sushi Changer to use its powers, rather than producing it through traditional calligraphy writing (which is something that he is admittedly bad at).
405	* ManChild: Bordering on BunnyEarsLawyer territory.
406	* MeaningfulName: "''Ume''" could be a verbal variation of "''Umai''"/"Delicious" here. Add it to "''Mori''"/"Helping" and it makes sense: "Delicious Serving", a direct reference to his food-stall business.
407	* PluckyComicRelief
408	* RedOniBlueOni: The red to Takeru's blue. He's one of two.
409	* ReverseGrip: He holds the Sakanamaru and its scabbard backwards. In fact, his backhanded Iai style itself is lampshaded as unusual.
410	* SelfProclaimedKnight: It's justified, as he learned the ways of the Samurai all by himself.
411	* SeriousBusiness: When you realize that under the ChefOfIron with little social grace and LargeHam tendencies Genta treats almost everything ''with the same weight that Takeru does'', you realize the two childhood friends have almost as much in common as they do in opposition.
412	* SignatureMove: ''Hyakumai Oroshi''[[note]]Hundred Fillets[[/note]]
413	* SixthRanger: Obviously.
414	* TheNicknamer: Calls Takeru "Take-chan", and even has nicknames for his ''Origami'': "Ika-chan" for the Ika Origami, and "Ebizo" for the Ebi Origami.
415	* TheSmartGuy: One of two. In his case, his ability to manipulate Mojikara and create new mecha.
416	* SoOkayItsAverage: InUniverse. Despite being a sushi-themed Ranger, the sushi that he makes is often labeled as such.
417	* SpamAttack: His "''Oroshi''" slash-storms.
418	* WeUsedToBeFriends: Of sorts. While he doesn't hold back against him in battle, Genta openly laments how he'll have to fight Juzo, as the latter was his best customer and the only person who declared their genuine love for his sushi.
419	[[/folder]]
420
421	[[folder:Kaoru Shiba / (Princess) Shinken Red '''SPOILERS''']]
422
423	!!Kaoru Shiba/[[red:(Princess) Shinken Red]] (XVIII)
424	!!!'''Portrayed by:''' Runa Natsui (live), Yuichi Hachisuka (suit), Sanae Hitomi (substitute)\
425
426	[[quoteright:350: https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/Shinkenger_Kaoru_9561.jpg]]
427	[[caption-width-right:350:''"Shinken Red. Shiba Kaoru."'']]
428	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see her as ShinkenRed]]\
429	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/55bfdf4d_53bd_4ab1_a80e_26e01905cd57.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
430	[[caption-width-right:350:[[labelnote:Click here to see her as SuperShinkenRed]]\
431	https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/1b6e96e3_0099_4fc4_b6f8_ca2db968bee6.jpeg[[/labelnote]]]]
432
433	->''"I will succeed! That's why I'm here, Father!''"
434
435	The true 18th head of the Shiba Clan who was hidden away and taken care of by one of her father's personal retainers in order to keep her and the Shiba Clan sealing character, the power to seal away Dokoku, safe from the Gedoushu. In her stead, [[BodyDouble Takeru took her place as lord]] as she trained and mastered the sealing character. Toward the end of the series, she returned to take her place as lord, but her vassals, who were more attached to Takeru, had a hard time following her.
436
437	Kaoru initially appears [[TheStoic stoic]], serious, and focused on her duty to defeat the Gedoushu, much like Takeru in the early parts of the series. This makes her difficult to approach, especially when she's with her stubborn retainer, Tanba. However, like Takeru, she turns out to be much nicer than she appears.
438
439	-----
440
441	* AdoptivePeerParent: [[spoiler:In order to legally transfer leadership of the Shinkengers to Takeru she adopts him as her son and names him the 19th head of the Shiba clan. This despite the fact that she is actually younger then Takeru. [[Series/TensouSentaiGoseiger Alata]] is rightfully confused [[Film/TensouSentaiGoseigerVsShinkengerEpicOnGinmaku when he meets Kaoru for the first time]].]]
442	* AlwaysSomeoneBetter: PlayedWith in her case compared to Takeru. As the true heir of the Shiba clan, her Fire Mojikara is far more intense and powerful then Takeru's as shown when it easily paralyses a Gedoushu that almost killed Takeru. She is then able to kill said Gedoushu in its Second Life using just the Shishi Origami. In terms of raw strength this means she is likely stronger then Takeru and she managed to figure out how to complete the Sealing Character, which no other head had ever figured out before. However being such a late addition to the team means she isn't quite as effective of a leader as him and, [[spoiler:once Dokoku is able to withstand the Sealing Characters power]] she decides that unity is more important and willingly stands down so Takeru can lead the charge again.
443	* CuteBruiser: She's the real 18th head of the Shiba clan, and is also quite cute. Don't let that distract you, though; if you're an enemy, she will obliterate you without a second thought.
444	* DistaffCounterpart: To Takeru.
445	* EleventhHourRanger: Though she actually replaces Takeru as leader. Once Takeru is made the official lord, she no longer goes into battle.
446	* EstablishingCharacterMoment: Before going into a battle that she wins handily using a single Origami where the conbined efforts of the other Shinkengers had just failed, she stops to check on Takeru, hinting at the kind person she is under her stoic badass exterior.
447	* {{Foil}}: To Takeru. In many ways, she's much like how Takeru was early in the series, stoic and withdrawn with an intense focus on eliminating the Gedoushu. By then, Takeru himself had become much more open and sympathetic towards his fellow Samurai.
448	* InstantExpert: Like the others, averted. The whole point of her being hidden was so she could master the sealing character. She is, however, quite proficient in combat, equally or even surpassing the other Shinkengers in battle.
449	* LawOfChromaticSuperiority: As the other Shinken Red and the true lord, this is a given.
450	* LightFeminineAndDarkFeminine: The darkest of the three female Shinkengers.
451	* TheOjou: Everyone addresses her as "''Hime-sama''"[[note]]Princess[[/note]]. Tanba, her personal retainer, treats her as such and tries to get everyone else to do the same. She, on the other hand, is not especially fond of being treated this way.
452	* ParentalAbandonment: Her father died sealing away Dokoku before she was born. Her mother was apparently pregnant with her around the time of the raid, but outside of that, nothing is mentioned about her still being alive.
453	* PassingTheTorch: [[spoiler:She steps down as lord and makes Takeru her successor. In order for this to legally work, however, she adopts him despite being ''younger'' than him.]]
454	* QuicklyDemotedWoman: [[spoiler:Though to be fair, she was also quickly promoted and willingly stepped down for good reason.[[note]]A combination of restoring the team's cohesion with Takeru as leader and her wounds forcing her to sit out of the final fight.[[/note]] Also completely justified, see RookieRedRanger below]]
455	* PerpetualFrowner: Kaoru is not known for her smile.
456	** WhenSheSmiles: [[spoiler:At some point during the ''vs Goseiger'' crossover, she did so out of nowhere. ''And it was adorable.'' She smiled in the finale too.]]
457	* PlayingWithFire: Because she's the direct successor to the Shiba Clan, her fire Mojikara is generally stronger than Takeru's.
458	* RookieRedRanger: An unusual example, and even a {{deconstruction}} of it. [[spoiler:Entering so late in the conflict and just simply taking over damaged the vassals' morale and teamwork. While she did so without any malice, she quickly realized that her presence did more harm than good, as this team, Genta included, had built themselves around ''Takeru'', not the position of the clan's head, meaning she could not simply take over the position from Takeru. After gaining Genta's good graces, she reinstates both him AND Takeru, stepping down for the latter as Shinken Red, all while shutting down Tanba's protests that did even more harm than her own naivete.]]
459	* RunningGag: Anytime Tanba, her retainer, annoys her or starts making JerkAss comments towards her vassals or her BodyDouble; she hits him with a PaperFanOfDoom of any size.
460	* ReasonableAuthorityFigure: Kaoru is very much aware of how attached her retainers are with Takeru, and she takes care to give them space and time to adapt to her leading them. She also gives quite a bit of gratitude to Takeru and Genta for their immense contributions, silencing Tanba whenever he tries to put them down.
461	* SmallGirlBigGun: Can wield the Rekka Daizantou with great skill, despite her young age.
462	* TheStoic: Moreso than Takeru. While Takeru is usually strict and determined in his stoicism, Kaoru shows almost no emotion in hers and is much more withdrawn.
463	** NotSoStoic: Witness her telling off Tanba in the last act for his priorities being out of order.
464	* SugarAndIceGirl: She titers more as this in her later appearances. While she's still stoic, she's more than willing to show off a smile or two.
465	* WalkingSpoiler: She only appears toward the end of the series, and her presence changes the perspective of the entire series, especially Takeru's character.
466	* WiseBeyondTheirYears: Kaoru is a lot younger than Takeru (she's estimated to be around 15 while he's 21),[[note]]Takeru was a young child the night of the attack on the Shiba house while Kaoru's mother was still pregnant with her at the time.[[/note]] but she isn't any less wise and mature. She realizes that her retainers are more attached to Takeru and gives them time to get used to her rather than unreasonably forcing them. Chiaki, the most stubborn in following Takeru, even has to admit that it would be much easier to hate her if she's just merely a shallow, bitchy princess. Later on, even Genta gets along with her after she voices out how she understands her retainers' feelings.
467	* YouKilledMyFather: Her father died in the Gedoushu raid before she was born. Her motivation for mastering the sealing character appears to stem from this.

Context Characters / SamuraiSentaiShinkengerShinkengers