Celebrating 5 Best Female Characters from Studio Ghibli

Studio Ghibli is famous for its breathtaking animations and compelling characters. One of the standout aspects of Ghibli movies is their portrayal of strong female characters who captivate viewers with their depth and determination. Let’s take a closer look and celebrate the 5 best female characters from Studio Ghibli movies!

#1 Chihiro Ogino from Spirited Away (2001)

Spirited Away (Image: Studio Ghibli)

The first one of our best female characters from Studio Ghibli is Chihiro. Chihiro Ogino is a 10-year-old girl from one of the most famous anime of all time, “Spirited Away.” In the movie, Chihiro has to navigate through tough challenges on her own after her parents turn into pigs in an abandoned amusement park that links the human world to spirits.

She then needs to take a job in the spirit bathhouse to save her parents. Her journey from a selfish and bad-tempered kid into a responsible and caring girl because of her time at the bathhouse, showcases her courage and inner strength, making her an inspiring role model for audiences of all ages. Plus, Chihiro makes us learn to see the good in other people when no one else dares to, making her especially likable.

#2 Kiki from Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)

Kiki’s Delivery Service (Image: Studio Ghibli)

The second-best female character from Studio Ghibli is none other than the 13-year-old witch from “Kiki’s Delivery Service.” Kiki embarks on a new journey by moving to a big town alone with her cat Jiji.  There she has a job to deliver items for a bakery. This might not sound like an exciting job for a witch, but Kiki’s daily challenges are relatable to viewers, making her such an inspiration.

Kiki’s difficulty in mustering the energy to start working, making wise decisions, being extremely responsible at such a young age, and trying to fit in the new town are familiar struggles for most of us. Many people who experience similar challenges relate to Kiki’s quest to be accepted and find her purpose in life. Although not the deepest story, fans who understand Kiki’s determination over hardships find it very empowering and challenging.

#3 Sophie Hatter from Howls’ Moving Castle (2004)

Howl’s Moving Castle (Image: Studio Ghibli)

At the start of “Howl’s Moving Castle,” Sophie is just a simple girl who works at a hat shop. She is scared to follow her dreams or do things for herself, which makes her feel uninspired and unconfident. But when a witch curses her into an old woman, her life seems ruined, until she decides to embark on a transformative adventure, change things, and discover her own worth.

Sophie Hatter is a prime example of a character who defies traditional gender roles. Her strength helps her find her real self and overcomes her curse. She shows us that even when life is hard, there will always be a way to control our own path. Her intelligence, compassion, and bravery are qualities that make her one of the best female characters from Studio Ghibli.

#4 San from Princess Mononoke (1997)

Princess Mononoke (Image: Studio Ghibli)

San, also known as Princess Mononoke, is one of Studi Ghibli’s most iconic characters. She is a fierce and independent girl who is raised by wolves and embodies the spirit of nature. Her powerful strength makes her the defender of the forest to fight against the destruction coming from human forces.

However, during her quest to save the forest, San also goes through intense internal conflict, where she starts wondering if she is capable of reuniting with humans or if she will forever belong with the wolf pack.  Her determination to protect her home and confront the moral complexities makes her a complicated and powerful character. San is indeed unforgettable and considered one of the best female characters from Studio Ghibli movies.

#5 Nausicaä from Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (Image: Studio Ghibli)

The last one on our list of 5 best female characters from Studi Ghibli is Nausicaä. She is an iconic female lead in Ghibli’s very first movie, “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.” In the movie, she is responsible for bringing peace and harmony between her people and the toxic jungle that contains humongous insects that dominate the Earth.

The movie highlights how courageous and sensitive Nausicaä is. She has to stand up for her beliefs and protect both her community and the environment, which are tough things to balance. However, she successfully shows unwavering leadership, making her one of Studio Ghibli’s most inspiring female heroes.

Each of these five characters has left an unforgettable mark on the world of anime and continues to inspire fans worldwide. These female leads break the norms as they embark on journeys for freedom, seeking self-fulfillment, and helping others. Which female characters from Studio Ghibli inspire you the most? Let us know in the comments below!

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