However, Bleach did something that Naruto or Dragon Ball could never do: Writing good female characters. And for this ranking we’re looking into these ladies to see which ones stand out as the absolute best waifus in Bleach.
10. Mashiro Kuna
I know this might not be the most popular opinion, but I like Mashiro. Her design makes her look like a very lovable goof. And her love for trolling is something that I can absolutely get get behind. Sure, she might not have the most screen time or character development. But she gave me the chance to turn my brain off and just enjoy the show for a few minutes, before the next battle to the death began. She has a very unique energy to her, which is why she stood out to me in the first place. But since she didn’t get much time to show off in the anime, she’ll have to settle for the bottom of our list.
9. Retsu Unohana
The first teaching of Thanosology is that all things need balance. And I think Retsu symbolizes that rather well. On the surface, she’s this kind, chilled-out chick with a voice that’s softer than silk, and an overall calming demeanor. But then you look at her lore and realize that you’re talking about the first Kenpachi, and a literal devil that took joy in torturing people before killing them. Half a cup of serenity and half a cup of horror; that’s simply my type of character. And considering her design is also rather attractive, she lands a spot here.
8. Nemu Kurotsuchi
Nemu makes me rather sad, as her whole living situation is pretty dire. It’s like yeah, she wouldn’t even be alive if it weren’t for Mayuri. But she definitely didn’t deserve to be used as bait in a battle. That being said, her overall kuudere vibe coupled with her undying loyalty to her scientific father, all makes her very admirable in my eyes. Especially when you consider the fact that she still managed to turn out kind and understanding. I mean, she managed to stay true even in the dimmest of situations. Plus she’s beyond cute and incredibly strong – so a great choice for this waifu ranking.
7. Soi Fon
I know a lot of fans don’t seem to like Soi all that much. But I think she deserves a bit of love. First off, you can’t tell me with a straight face that her design isn’t gorgeous. Every anime chick that can rock short hair is automatically waifu material. Plus, her overall stiff character actually lends itself to some rather fun scenes – especially when Yoruichi is around. And as a warrior she’s more than capable of holding her own on the battlefield. Soi is just a very strong character, both physically and mentally. And she doesn’t budge when it comes to her morals and her beliefs. I think that character trait is definitely worth some praise.
6. Tier Harribel
There’s so much potential with Tier’s character. In terms of visual design, I think she’s at the very top when it comes to Bleach. From her oddly stylish getup to her yellow eyelashes and overall cold aura, she immediately stood out to most fans. She’s very calculated in battle, going against the old “anger fuels everything” archetype, and calmly assessing her situation from moment to moment. Not only did this make her very hard to read, but it also made her sound like quite the badass. Plus, let’s be honest here: if you’re looking for characters with lots of plot points built up in the upper half of the series, she’s definitely top Tier. No, I will not apologize for that pun.
5. Orihime Inoue
When it comes to Orihime, people seem to either love her, or equate her to Sakura and despise her with their entire being. This is largely due to their perception that Orihime is useless and only serves the plot when she needs to be saved. But I wouldn’t go that far. She’s always there to heal Ichigo. And unlike Sakura, we can see that she truly cares for her friends and is willing to put her life on the line to help them. Sure, she isn’t the most powerful character in the series. But that doesn’t make her any less lovable in my eyes. Also, she provides the show with some wholesome as hell moments.
4. Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck
When Nelliel was first introduced, I thought “man, what a cute and wholesome character!” But since I’m not someone that Chris Hansen needs to worry about, I didn’t consider her to be waifu material or anything like that. And then she transformed… and man is her adult form something. Beyond just being drop dead gorgeous and an incredibly proficient fighter, she also kept some of the naivety and wholesomeness that made me dig her character in the first place. She’s adorable and hot, helpless and powerful. And she has a smile that needs to be protected. Certainly a strong waifu pick.
3. Rangiku Matsumoto
Rangiku is just chill. Whenever she’s on screen, she’s either testing some poor soul’s moral compass in regards to lust, or getting drunk off of sake – and that’s honestly a mood I can get behind. She has caused many a chuckle with her constant regards to her body (you already know which part I’m talking about if you’ve seen her). And her trying to seduce Ichigo is simply comedy gold. No matter how you look at it, she’s a gorgeous character that’s also down to have a drink and a laugh, while also having quite a bit of power on the side. And what more could an anime fan really want from a potential waifu?
2. Rukia Kuchiki
Although I believe in equality across all levels, tsundere characters are always going to have it a bit easier when I am concerned. I just can’t help it, they’re my kryptonite! And seeing Rukia and Ichigo interact in any way whatsoever is always a treat. Because you already know they would have been quite the power couple if the show ever decided to put them together. Personality wise, Rukia is pretty standard as far as tsunderes go, commonly punching the life out of Ichigo and making him sincerely question his decisions (while also being lowkey attracted). Or at least that’s how I always saw their relationship.
1. Yoruichi Shihouin
Although I do love tsundere characters, this was hardly a difficult decision. Yoruichi is simply the most lovable character that Bleach has to offer. She has just the right amount of sass to always make for an interesting back and forth. And her trolling methods have made for quite a few laughs as well. Plus her entire schtick of being so comfortable with her body (she’s used to being a cat) that she doesn’t feel the need to cover herself up, subsequently makes Ichigo faint, always makes for some great content. In terms of design, she’s of course absolutely beautiful – and considering the fact that she’s also among the stronger characters in the series, I think that qualifies her for the title of “the entire package”. So yeah, best waifu all the way.
