Haku is one of the central figures in the beloved and critically praised anime film Spirited Away (Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi), a masterpiece by Studio Ghibli that has captured hearts around the world. The story follows a young girl named Chihiro, who finds herself thrust into a surreal spirit realm after her parents are transformed into pigs due to a mysterious curse. In this strange new world, Haku becomes a crucial ally—someone Chihiro can rely on when everything else feels uncertain. From the very beginning, Haku stands out as both mysterious and dependable, guiding Chihiro through the rules and dangers of the bathhouse where spirits come to cleanse themselves.

At first glance, Haku might seem distant or even cold, but as the story unfolds, we begin to see his deeper layers. He works under Yubaba, the powerful and often fearsome witch who runs the bathhouse, serving as her assistant and messenger. But Haku is far more than just an employee—he’s actually a river spirit, bound by a forgotten past. There’s a quiet history between him and Chihiro; they met years before when she was just a child playing near his river. That early connection forged a promise—one that Haku never forgot. And now, seeing her again, he’s determined to keep his word, no matter the cost.

It’s clear throughout the movie that Haku possesses extraordinary abilities. He can transform into a magnificent dragon, soar through the skies, and engage in intense magical battles. These powers make him a formidable presence, yet he uses them not for personal gain, but to protect Chihiro and help her reclaim her family. His loyalty is unwavering, and his courage shines brightest during moments of crisis. As viewers, we’re drawn to Haku not only because of his strength but also because of his emotional depth—there’s a sadness beneath his calm exterior, tied to his lost identity and fractured memories.

As the plot progresses, Haku’s backstory slowly comes to light, adding richness to his character. This gradual revelation keeps audiences engaged, making Haku one of the most compelling figures in modern animation. He’s not just a helper or sidekick; he’s integral to the heart of the story. Without Haku, Chihiro would likely have been overwhelmed by the spirit world’s chaos. His guidance, protection, and quiet devotion form the backbone of her transformation from a frightened child into a brave and resilient heroine.

When it comes to personality analysis, many fans and psychologists alike believe Haku embodies the INFJ type—a rare and introspective temperament known for empathy, intuition, and idealism. Haku may appear reserved at times, even aloof, but beneath that surface lies a well of emotion and deep care, especially toward Chihiro. He senses things others don’t—emotions, hidden motives, the subtle shifts in the spirit world—all signs of strong intuitive ability. While he often relies on logic and strategy, his actions are ultimately driven by compassion. Even in quieter moments, like when he leads Chihiro to Kamaji’s boiler room, Haku shows a nurturing side, gently steering her toward safety without drawing attention to himself.

There are also glimpses of extroverted behavior, particularly when he steps into the role of protector. These instances don’t contradict his INFJ nature—they highlight how such types can act decisively when values or loved ones are at stake. Haku’s mystical aura, combined with his profound understanding of Chihiro’s inner struggles, aligns perfectly with the classic INFJ profile: insightful, creative, and deeply attuned to others’ needs.

Looking at Haku through the lens of the Enneagram, he strongly resonates with Type Nine—the Peacemaker. Nines seek harmony, avoid conflict when possible, and often put others’ needs ahead of their own. Haku exemplifies this throughout the film. Whether he’s mediating tensions in the bathhouse or shielding Chihiro from danger, he consistently acts as a stabilizing force. His calm demeanor allows him to assess situations thoughtfully before acting, a trait that proves invaluable in the unpredictable spirit world.

Moreover, Haku’s tendency to lose touch with his true self—especially when he forgets his name and becomes consumed by Yubaba’s control—mirrors a common struggle for Type Nines: losing oneself in service to others. Under extreme stress, Nines may “tune out” or dissociate, which is exactly what happens when Haku transforms into a wounded dragon, disconnected from his identity. Yet, it’s through Chihiro’s love and persistence that he rediscovers who he truly is—an act that symbolizes healing and reintegration.

In the end, Haku’s journey is as transformative as Chihiro’s. He begins as a servant caught between worlds, torn between duty and memory, but evolves into someone who reclaims his name, his power, and his purpose. All the while, Haku remains a symbol of quiet strength, selflessness, and enduring loyalty.

So, whether you’re analyzing Haku through psychological frameworks like the MBTI or the Enneagram, or simply experiencing his story emotionally, one thing remains undeniable: Haku is essential to Spirited Away. His presence elevates the narrative, offering both magical wonder and heartfelt connection. And even years after the film’s release, Haku continues to be remembered—not just as a character, but as a guardian, a friend, and a beacon of hope in a world full of mystery. Haku, without a doubt, stands as one of anime’s most iconic and cherished figures.