Anime is a widely popular entertainment genre, but it’s not just for kids. Many of the most popular anime characters are Adults who enjoy a bit of scruff on their faces.
So, what makes these guys so cool? There’s no denying that beards are trendy right now. But what about the characters in popular anime with beards?
In this ranking, we’re looking at the top anime characters with beards and judging them by their popularity. From Asuma Sarutobi to Master Roshi, read about which bearded wonder reigns supreme. Take a look and see which anime characters you know best!
Bearded Anime Characters
There’s no denying that beards are hot right now, and anime characters know this too well. With so many epic beard-wearing characters to choose from, it can be hard to decide who to root for.
But fear not! We’ve compiled a list of the top popular anime bearded characters and ranked them accordingly. So let’s take a look at who made the cut.
1. Asuma Sarutobi (Naruto)
Asuma Sarutobi is a former Leaf ninja who served as the second Hokage of the village. He was widely known as the best teacher in history. His students included Uchiha Sasuke, Naruto Uzumaki, and Hyūga Hinata.
After retiring from active duty, Asuma became the head of the Sarutobi Clan, which he later passed down to his son Hiashi.
Aside from his teaching skills, Asuma was noted for his great leadership qualities. During the Third Shinobi War, he rallied the village’s forces to victory against Kiba Inuzuka and Akatsuki member Hidan.
Asuma was also noted for his bravery; during the Search for Tsunade campaign, he refused to withdraw from battle even after being injured.
Although he retired from active duty many years ago, Asuma maintained strong ties with the village and its people. It was due to his efforts that Naruto succeeded in becoming a ninja.
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2. Joseph Joestar (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure)
Joseph Joestar, one of the most popular characters in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, is known for his signature beard and eccentric personality. He’s the grandson of Jonathan Joestar and a skilled fighter who’s been through many tough battles in his lifetime.
His iconic beard adds to his mature and experienced look, and it’s hard to imagine him without it. Joseph is a fan-favorite character in the JoJo franchise, and his beard is just one of the many reasons why.
3. Master Roshi (Dragon Ball)
Master Roshi is a beloved character from the Dragon Ball franchise, and his iconic beard is a key part of his look. As a master martial artist and mentor to Goku and other Dragon Ball characters, Roshi’s beard adds to his wise and experienced appearance.
Despite his advanced age, Roshi is still a formidable fighter, and his beard only adds to his fearsome reputation. His white beard is also a reminder of his age and experience, making him a respected and revered character.
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4. Van Hohenheim (Fullmetal Alchemist)
While he is a complicated character, there is no denying that Van is a brilliant alchemist who brought his sons Edward and Alphonse Elric into existence.
He’s been alive for centuries and eventually created the first Philosopher’s Stone. This act cost him his life.
Fortunately for him, Dante could attach his soul to the nearest man in the room, giving Van a second chance at life and an impressive blonde beard.
5. Sig Curtis (Fullmetal Alchemist)
Sig Curtis from Fullmetal Alchemist is another anime character with a notable beard. As a skilled blacksmith and martial artist, Sig’s beard adds to his imposing and powerful appearance.
His thick beard frames his face and highlights his strong jawline, giving him a look of strength and intelligence.
Despite his tough exterior, Sig is a loyal and caring friend to those he trusts, and his beard reminds him of his dedication and commitment to his craft.
6. Killer Bee (Naruto)
When you first look at Killer Bee, he looks like an anime version of Hulk Hogan. At first glance, though, his bright blond hair and matching beard make it easy to spot him from a crowd when he’s in the midst of battle.
Despite having impressive physical prowess, this character isn’t all about fighting, and one of his life goals is to become the world’s greatest rapper. Boy, does his attitude ever get in the way sometimes!
He can be prideful sometimes, but Killer Bee prefers to express his pride in lyrical ways. He will even write rhymes during battle or get ideas for raps from his opponents while they fight.
Although taking him seriously at times can be challenging, you gotta give him some respect. In his spare time, he also loves befriending animals big and small.
7. Shunsui Kyōraku (Bleach)
One of the best anime guys out there, Shunsui, has dark wavy hair that even the black-haired girls take a second look at.
His eyes are a brilliant amber color, and he is fighting fit, with a roguish five-o’clock shadow covering his angular features and muscular body.
He is the captain of the 1st Division and the captain-commander of the Gotei 13 squad. He enjoys peace despite his might, and underestimating danger allows him to escape most battles before it’s too late.
Even though he has immense skills, he is kind and humble, embracing friendship and rest in his lifestyle, which greatly makes you admire his self-image.
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8. Jet Black (Cowboy Bebop)
Jet Black, a cowboy-like bounty hunter in the Cowboy Bebop, has one of the most impressive beards in all anime. His beard is Jet black and extends down to his waist, making him one of the most visually imposing characters in the show.
While many other characters on the show sport shaggy beards that are either too long or not jet-black enough, Jet’s beard is perfect; it gives him an air of masculinity and danger while also being stylish and well-groomed.
Jet Black is a powerful character with a strong sense of justice. He is loyal to his friends and always willing to fight for his beliefs, even if it means breaking the law.
His ambition and drive make him one of the most compelling characters in Cowboy Bebop and a fan favorite.
9. Shigekuni Yamamoto-Genryūsai (Bleach)
Shigekuni Yamamoto-Genryūsai is a character from the popular anime series Bleach, and his distinctive beard is one of his defining features.
As the captain of the 1st Division of the Gotei 13, Yamamoto is a respected and feared figure in the world of Bleach. His long, flowing beard adds to his commanding presence and symbolizes his power and authority.
Despite his stern demeanor, Yamamoto is a complex character with a deep sense of honor and duty, and his beard reflects his steadfastness and resilience.
10. Monkey D. Garp (One Piece)
Monkey D. Garp, the infamous and feared bounty hunter in the world of One Piece, is one of the most popular anime characters with a beard. Garp has a long, unkempt beard that reaches his waist, and he often wears a scarf around his neck to conceal it.
Garp is known for his ruthless behavior in pursuing bounties. He has been known to pursue pirates even if they are allied with powerful forces such as the World Government.
This uncompromising attitude has made him one of the most feared bounty hunters in the world, and it’s also why he’s often called “The Devil” by his enemies.
Despite his fearsome reputation, Garp is a kindhearted man who loves spending time with his grandson Monkey D. Luffy.
He’s also very loyal to friends, including Luffy’s father, Donquixote Doflamingo, and fellow bounty hunter Trafalgar Law.
Despite his intimidating appearance, Garp is quite gentle inside and doesn’t enjoy hurting people unnecessarily. He typically uses brute force only as a last resort and only when necessary, making him a much more formidable opponent than many people realize.
11. Iskander (Fate/Zero)
This likable anime protagonist may not seem that intimidating. Still, his flaming red hair and chin curtain, mixed with an imposing beard, make him one of the most imposing bearded anime characters.
A fantastic ruler who almost dictated the world during his time, Iskander was summoned by Waver Velvet as the boy’s Servant in the Fourth Holy Grail War.
Though sometimes wild and inconsiderate of those around him, he has a sense of honor and prefers honesty over humiliating opponents.
Despite being a total BAMF with muscles so huge it’s easy to believe he can wrestle a bear easily, this green-chuked dude is friendly and generous.
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12. Isshin Kurosaki (Bleach)
Ichigo’s father, Isshin Kurosaki, is a tough guy with a five o’clock shadow that sometimes gets more than it’s worth. Despite looking challenging and intimidating, he’s in on the joke. He doesn’t take any form of abuse or teasing very kindly.
As the father of Ichigo, he is overprotective, but he’s also fun and perverted. His expert timing in dealing with child discipline has made some hilarious moments for viewers.
He is one of the series’s most notable recurring characters, and we think it’s because of his comedic timing and adorable 5 o’clock shadow.
13. Chaa (Angel Beats!)
Chaa is a weapons supplier with an impressive beard and long hair. Before heading to the afterlife, he’s shown to have a wife in the manga.
Together they left everything behind to be, and after death, he feels drawn to Yuri as she reminds him of his lost love.
As the leader of the Guild, he makes weapons from dirt using the memories of weapons that members of the Guild have from when they were alive.
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14. Gou Koga (Bleach)
Gou Koga from Bleach is another anime character with a memorable beard. As the leader of the Koga clan, Gou’s beard is a sign of his authority and status as a powerful warrior.
His bushy beard adds to his rough and rugged appearance and reminds him of his fierce loyalty to his clan.
Despite his gruff exterior, Gou is a dedicated and honorable fighter, and his beard reflects his strong and steadfast personality.
15. Shimon Muran/Solomon Muto (Yu-Gi-Oh!)
Shimon Muran, also known as Solomon Muto in the English version of Yu-Gi-Oh!, is one of the series’s oldest and most experienced duelists. He is the grandfather of the main character, Yugi, and is known for his signature beard and grandfatherly demeanor.
Despite his age, Shimon remains a formidable duelist and plays a crucial role in helping Yugi and his friends save the world from various villains. His beard adds to his wise and knowledgeable appearance, and he often dispenses valuable advice to Yugi and his friends.
Shimon’s beard symbolizes his experience, knowledge, and wisdom, and it has become an iconic part of his character design.
16. The Count (Gankutsuou)
“The Count” is a man on a mission to bring down his oppressors and the ones who imprisoned him. Unlikely coerced by the narcissist Gankutsuou, Edmond Dantes makes himself The Count after meeting him in doing so.
With dark hair long enough to fall over his ears, pointed ears, and a well-kept goatee that would make Dracula jealous, “The Count” is arrogant with unrivaled charisma and a manipulative sociopath.
He conditionally sells himself out for revenge and uses those surrounding him as pieces on the chessboard to reclaim what was stolen from him. Being a fan of dark characters obsessed with facial hair, “The Count” has all the right looks.
17. King Vegeta (Dragon Ball)
For a good reason, King Vegeta is one of the most popular anime characters with a beard. He has an imposing appearance with a long, black beard that flows down his chest.
His facial features are well-defined, making him look like a powerful king. His backstory is interesting enough that fans will not be bored watching him fight onscreen.
The King Vegeta character was first introduced in the anime Dragon Ball Super. He is the son of King Vegeta and Queen Bulma and is very loyal to his father.
He is also known for his fierce fighting skills, which have earned him the title of “the strongest warrior in all of space.” In addition to being a great fighter, King Vegeta is also skilled in using magic. He can use telekinesis to lift objects or enemies off their feet and throw them across the room.
Overall, King Vegeta is an impressive character who combines great fighting and magical abilities. He is a fan favorite and will continue to be popular among anime fans for years.
18. Vincent Volaju (Cowboy Bebop)
He’s a cowboy, bounty hunter, and all-around badass. Still, many people don’t know that Vincent has a pretty impressive beard too!
With its long, scraggly locks and matching mustache, Vincent’s beard is easily one of the most iconic elements of his character.
Though it may not be as well-known as some other characters on this list, Vincent’s beard deserves recognition for its intricate design and striking contrast against his clean-shaven face.
19. Juzo Okita (Space Battleship Yamato)
Juzo Okita is a Space Battleship Yamato anime and manga series character. He’s a lieutenant commander and one of the ship’s tactical officers.
Juzo often keeps long, dark hair in a braid and also sports a beard. Juzo is known for his aggressive fighting style and ability to think independently.
He’s also compassionate, and he often helps those who are down on their luck. Juzo is one of the most popular anime characters with beards. Fans love him for his tough personality and cool demeanor.
20. Tazuna (Naruto)
Tazuna is a supporting character in the Naruto manga and anime series. He was originally introduced as a young boy who had lost his parents. Tazuna was later revealed to be the son of the Seventh Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi.
As Hiruzen’s apprentice, Tazuna assisted him during the Third Shinobi World War and later became his successor as the Seventh Hokage.
Throughout his time as Hokage, Tazuna helped rebuild Konoha after its destruction by Kaguya Ōtsutsuki. He most notably created the Rain Genjutsu that helped keep Sasuke from joining forces with Madara Uchiha.
Following his death at the hands of Obito Uchiha, Tazuna is given posthumous recognition as one of Konoha’s greatest heroes.
21. Ohnoki (Naruto)
Ohnoki, also known as the Four-Tailed Demon Fox, is one of the most popular and recognizable characters in the Naruto series.
He first appeared in chapter 101 of the manga and has since become a fan favorite. Ohnoki is a powerful ninja with four tails that can unleash powerful attacks.
His appearance and personality have generated great interest among fans, making him one of the most popular anime characters with beards.
22. Azuma (Fairy Tail)
Succumbing to this series’ formidable leading lady, Mirajane Strauss, the visibly unimpressive but still impressive member of the Dark Guild quickly realized just how much power Fairy Tail holds.
With thick brown hair sticking out all around his head and a prominent chin beard that joins with attractive sideburns that frame his angular face, this tall, powerful combatant is a sight for sore eyes.
Despite not being interested in fighting dirty, he’s not above using underhanded tactics to succeed when faced with strong opponents.
He’ll accept defeat graciously and even return the Fairy Tale Guild’s magic as promised should he have a fair fight with Erza Lissanna.
23. Hades (Fairy Tail)
Hades, also known as Precht Gaebolg, is a former guild master of the dark Guild, Grimoire Heart, and one of the main antagonists of the Tenrou Island arc in Fairy Tail. He is known for his imposing size, muscular build, and thick beard.
Hades’ beard adds to his intimidating appearance and gives him a powerful and menacing presence. He is a skilled mage with many powerful magic spells, and his beard only adds to his formidable abilities.
24. Kotetsu T. Kaburagi (Tiger & Bunny)
Kotetsu T. Kaburagi, also known as Wild Tiger, is one of the main characters in the anime series Tiger & Bunny. He is a veteran hero with over 20 years of experience and is known for his signature beard and superhero suit.
Kotetsu’s beard adds to his rugged and experienced appearance and gives him a distinguished look. He is a skilled fighter and hero who always puts his duty first, and his beard symbolizes his dedication and commitment to protecting his city.
25. Shiro Fujimoto (Ao No Exorcist)
Shiro Fujimoto is a major character in the anime series Ao No Exorcist and is the adoptive father of the main character, Rin. He is a powerful exorcist known for his thick beard and imposing presence.
Shiro’s beard adds to his wise and knowledgeable appearance, and he often dispenses valuable advice to Rin and his friends.
Despite his tough exterior, Shiro has a kind heart and cares deeply for his family and friends. His beard symbolizes his strength, experience, and wisdom, and it has become an iconic part of his character design.
Conclusion
In conclusion, anime characters with beards add a unique and distinguished element to their character designs.
Beards have become a staple in anime character design, from wise and knowledgeable grandfathers to imposing and powerful villains.
The four characters we’ve highlighted in this post, Shimon Muran/Solomon Muto from Yu-Gi-Oh!, Hades from Fairy Tail, Kotetsu T. Kaburagi from Tiger & Bunny, and Shiro Fujimoto from Ao No Exorcist, are just a few examples of the many iconic anime characters who sport beards.
While beards may seem like a small detail, they can add depth and personality to an anime character. Whether they’re used to convey wisdom, power, or ruggedness, beards have become a beloved and iconic part of anime character design.
As anime continues to evolve and grow, we can only expect to see more and more characters sporting stylish and unique beards.
So, watch for your favorite anime characters and see if they sport a beard that adds to their overall character design.
