Have you ever noticed how anime characters with mustaches seem to stand out in a crowd of clean-shaven faces? I sure have. In a world dominated by flawless skin and youthful designs, a mustache can speak volumes. It’s a design choice that instantly hints at wisdom, age, or sometimes just pure eccentricity.
Over the years, as I’ve explored countless anime series, I’ve come to love how these seemingly small details can make a character unforgettable. A mustache might feel like a tiny feature, but in anime, it often plays a surprisingly big role. In this post, I’m diving into some of the most iconic anime characters with mustaches and what makes their facial hair so memorable.
Why Do Anime Characters Have Mustaches?
Facial hair isn’t exactly common in anime, and that’s why it gets your attention when it does show up. Unlike Western shows where beards and mustaches are everywhere, anime usually reserves facial hair for specific kinds of characters—those with authority, experience, or just a wild sense of style.
It’s like a secret code. A mustache in anime can tell you a lot about a character before they even speak. Whether they’re a stern military commander or a quirky old inventor, their facial hair usually gives you a clue.
So yes—anime characters with mustaches tend to be some of the most expressive and iconic in their worlds.
Top 15 Iconic Anime Characters With Mustaches
I’ve picked this list based on style, storytelling value, and just how unforgettable these characters are. From pirates to detectives to cyborgs—these mustaches cover it all.
1. Whitebeard (Edward Newgate) – One Piece
Whitebeard’s crescent mustache is legendary. It’s bold, just like him, and it instantly tells you he’s not someone to mess with. It’s more than facial hair—it’s part of his entire mythos. He commands the seas with the presence of a titan, and his mustache is a visual embodiment of his legacy. Even in death, it stands as a symbol of strength, honor, and fatherhood.
2. Master Roshi – Dragon Ball
Roshi’s tiny mustache and flowing white beard pair perfectly to create his signature look. He’s often seen as a joke character, but his facial hair reminds viewers that he’s actually one of the most powerful martial artists in the Dragon Ball universe. It helps sell the image of a pervy old man who’s still got a lot left in the tank.
3. Maes Hughes – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Hughes’ mustache is the cherry on top of his “fun dad” look. Always boasting about his daughter and cracking jokes, he brings light to a series full of darkness. The mustache makes him feel warm and approachable, which only makes his loss all the more painful.
4. Jet Black – Cowboy Bebop
Jet’s rugged facial hair is a reflection of his hardened life. A former cop with a tragic past, his mustache and beard combo gives off serious “seen it all” energy. He’s the reliable rock of the Bebop crew, and his look perfectly supports that identity. He’s also a prime example of an anime boy with black hair whose mature appearance sets him apart from the typically youthful cast.
5. Kamaji – Spirited Away
Kamaji’s mustache is as chaotic as his workplace. With multiple arms and a cranky attitude, he seems unapproachable—until you get to know him. That shaggy mustache adds a mix of warmth and weirdness, helping solidify his role as a gruff-but-caring guide.
6. Leorio Paladiknight – Hunter x Hunter
Leorio’s growth from impulsive teen to aspiring doctor is symbolized in part by his mustache. As he matures and takes on more responsibility, his appearance changes to reflect that. It’s not flashy, but it adds depth to his evolution as a character who wants to help others.
7. Genryusai Yamamoto – Bleach
With a beard and mustache that blaze as fiercely as his Zanpakuto, Yamamoto is an imposing figure. His facial hair complements his fiery power and immense age, giving him the commanding aura of a mythical warrior king. He’s the kind of character you fear, respect, and never underestimate.
8. Franky (Future Ver.) – One Piece
After the time skip, Franky returns looking more ridiculous than ever—and that includes a handlebar mustache. It adds to his “larger-than-life” cyborg persona, and though it may seem like a gag, it’s part of his confident, flamboyant identity. Only Franky could pull it off.
9. Joseph Joestar (Older) – JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
Young Joseph was wild, brash, and loud. Older Joseph? Still all those things—but now with a mustache that adds a touch of class. It marks his evolution into a mentor while keeping that classic Joestar charm alive.
10. Inspector Megure – Detective Conan
A staple of the series, Megure’s thick mustache never changes—just like his commitment to solving cases. He brings authority and old-school detective vibes, grounding the series’ many mysteries in a steady presence.
11. Isaac Netero – Hunter x Hunter
With a long white mustache and a demeanor that ranges from gentle to terrifying, Netero is a master of balance. His facial hair echoes the duality of his character: monk-like patience and explosive strength. It’s part of what makes his final battle so powerful.
12. Don Kanonji – Bleach
Kanonji’s pencil-thin mustache is theatrical and totally over-the-top, just like the man himself. He’s comic relief with a heart of gold, and his dramatic look tells you everything you need to know about his love for the spotlight.
13. Kamui Woods – My Hero Academia
You won’t always see it, but when Kamui Woods’ mask is off, his thin mustache adds a mature touch. He’s not flashy or famous like other heroes, but he’s dependable—and that tiny detail helps differentiate him from the younger crowd.
14. Kazekage Rasa – Naruto
Gaara’s father had a cold, rigid approach to leadership, and his sharp mustache reinforced that. It’s a harsh, no-nonsense look that mirrors his treatment of his son. It’s not just style—it’s storytelling through character design.
15. Kanta’s Dad – Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind
In a movie filled with grand, symbolic figures, Kanta’s dad stands out for being so grounded. His rugged mustache gives him the look of a working-class survivor—someone who’s just trying to protect his family in a dangerous world.
Final Thoughts: Why Anime Characters With Mustaches Deserve More Recognition
Anime is all about the little things—and mustaches are one of them. Whether they’re played for laughs, authority, or pure flair, they always add something special. I truly believe that anime characters with mustaches deserve more love, both for what they bring to a design and the depth they add to a story.
So next time you spot a mustached character on screen, don’t overlook them. There’s a good chance they’ve got a bigger story to tell—and a bold look to match. Anime characters with mustaches might be rare, but they’re unforgettable for all the right reasons.
Note: I do not claim ownership of any images featured in this blog. The images were collected from YouTube and other sources, and are only used for informational and educational purposes. Full credit is given to the original creators and copyright owners.
