A Recent Survey on Popular Anime Characters in Japan Reveals Surprising Results
Recently, a survey conducted in Japan has sparked discussions among anime enthusiasts about which character is considered the most “random” warrior. Surprisingly, the audience cast their votes for a character from a different anime/manga, not for Tanjiro Kamado from “Demon Slayer” or Roronoa Zoro from “One Piece.”
The survey mentioned above was carried out by NEXER Inc. and Eirakudo, with 500 participants. Out of these, 172 votes were cast for Goemon Ishikawa, the character who plays the role of the loyal companion in “Lupin III.” It’s noteworthy that the characters who secured the second, third, and fourth positions received exactly 47 votes each, keeping the competition tight.
Top 10 Most Random Anime Characters According to Japanese Fans:

1. Goemon Ishikawa (Lupin III) – 172 votes
2. Tanjiro Kamado (Demon Slayer) – 47 votes
2. Roronoa Zoro (One Piece) – 47 votes
2. Himura Kenshin (Rurouni Kenshin) – 47 votes
5. Kyojuro Rengoku (Demon Slayer) – 45 votes
6. Gintoki Sakata (Gintama) – 23 votes
7. Shanks (One Piece) – 21 votes
8. Saito Hajime (Rurouni Kenshin) – 19 votes
9. Inuyasha (Inuyasha) – 16 votes
10. Giyu Tomioka (Demon Slayer) – 15 votes
In “Lupin III,” Goemon Ishikawa is a skilled swordsman with advanced martial arts abilities, including Karate, Jujutsu, and Kenjutsu. As an expert trained in the sword-drawing techniques of “Iaido,” Goemon executes swift and precise strikes, effortlessly defeating his opponents with just a single motion.
Goemon possesses extraordinary cutting abilities, often using his sword, Zantetsuken, to slice through anything in his path.
Some respondents elaborated, noting that Goemon’s combat skills are not only impressive but also rooted in his unwavering loyalty and steadfastness.
“He doesn’t just wield his Zantetsuken; his resolve and strength only grow, even in death, making him a formidable presence,” stated one participant.

While Roronoa Zoro and Tanjiro Kamado have a significant following, Goemon Ishikawa holds a unique position in the hearts of Japanese fans.
Earlier this year, the warrior wielding Zantetsuken also outperformed Zoro in a poll titled “Strongest Swordsman” by NEXER. Out of a total of 1,000 participants, 177 voted for Goemon, while Zoro and Himura Kenshin received 72 and 68 votes, respectively.
The majority of comments from those who voted for Goemon highlighted Zantetsuken’s astonishing cutting ability, making him a standout even in the current shonen genre landscape.