Nenji Kashiwazaki

Okina is jovial, mischievous and fond of drinking, parties and women. His unserious behavior can make him seem like little more than an eccentric old innkeeper, but the persona conceals a sharp intelligence and considerable experience.

When circumstances demand it, Okina becomes stern and decisive. His loyalty to the Oniwabanshū remains strong, but he refuses to confuse loyalty with unquestioning obedience. He is willing to oppose even someone he loves if that person threatens the family and principles he has spent years protecting.

His treatment of Misao is paternal. Although he jokes frequently, he takes her safety seriously and wants her to build a life rather than become trapped by the violent traditions of the past.

Okina was one of the strongest members of the Oniwabanshū and remained dangerous well into old age. He fights primarily with twin steel tonfa capable of blocking sword strikes and supporting powerful close-range attacks.

His speed, reflexes and endurance remain exceptional for his age. He was once considered a candidate to succeed as Oniwabanshū okashira but declined in favor of the younger Aoshi Shinomori.

Okina's intelligence network is equally important. Former Oniwabanshū agents and contacts throughout Kyoto provide him with information unavailable through ordinary channels, allowing him to locate people who deliberately avoid public attention.

Kenshin meets Okina after arriving in Kyoto. Through the Aoiya network, Okina helps him search for swordsmith Seikuu Arai and later for Kenshin's master Seijuurou Hiko.

The crisis surrounding Aoshi places Okina in a much more personal conflict. After learning that Aoshi has allied himself with Shishio and is hunting Kenshin, Okina challenges his former successor in an attempt to stop him.

Aoshi defeats Okina brutally and leaves him critically wounded. Misao subsequently rejects Aoshi's authority and assumes leadership of the Oniwabanshū. Okina survives and continues supporting the Aoiya after recovering.

Misao Makimachi is effectively Okina's foster daughter. He raises her after Aoshi leaves and remains fiercely protective of her.

Aoshi Shinomori is Okina's younger fellow Oniwabanshū member and the man he once supported as the group's next leader. Their bond breaks temporarily when Aoshi's obsession with defeating Kenshin leads him to attack Okina.

Kenshin Himura receives Okina's assistance during the Kyoto crisis, particularly through the Oniwabanshū intelligence network.

Seikuu Arai and Seijuurou Hiko are among the people Okina's network helps Kenshin locate.