Kinako Sakurakoji is one of the main characters in the popular anime series Love Live! Superstar!!, and her journey really stands out throughout the show. As a second-year student at Yuigaoka Girls’ High School, Kinako becomes part of the school’s brand-new idol group, Liella!, which marks the beginning of her transformation both as a performer and as a person. At first glance, Kinako comes across as quite shy and reserved—she often hesitates to speak up or draw attention to herself, especially in front of others. But despite that quiet exterior, there’s a deep passion burning inside her: a genuine love for music and singing.
It was actually the performances of past idol groups like μ’s and Aqours from earlier Love Live! series that inspired Kinako Sakurakoji to pursue her dream of becoming an idol. Seeing how they expressed themselves so freely on stage gave her hope—and motivation—to step out of her comfort zone. Even though she struggles with self-expression due to her introverted nature, Kinako is determined to grow. And honestly, that determination is one of her most admirable qualities.
When it comes to talent, Kinako Sakurakoji truly shines through her unique vocal style. Her voice carries this sweet yet powerful tone that adds emotional depth to every song she sings. It’s no surprise that her parts in Liella!’s performances often carry heartfelt lyrics—it’s where she connects best with the audience. On top of that, she also plays the acoustic guitar, which she sometimes uses to accompany her vocals during practice or more intimate moments. That little detail adds such a personal touch to her artistry.
Over time, viewers get to witness Kinako Sakurakoji undergo meaningful character growth. She slowly begins opening up to her fellow Liella! members, forming deeper bonds and learning how to trust others—and herself. Of course, the road isn’t always smooth. There are setbacks, doubts, and moments of insecurity along the way. But thanks to the support of her friends and the guidance of her mentor, Kinako keeps pushing forward. Her goal? To become a successful idol who can inspire others just like those who came before her inspired her.
Now, if we take a closer look at her behavior and mindset, there’s a strong case to be made that Kinako Sakurakoji fits the ESTJ personality type—Extraverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging. Now, wait—that might seem surprising given how shy she appears at first. But think about it: ESTJs are known for being organized, responsible, and natural leaders, even if they don’t always seek the spotlight. In Kinako’s case, her role involves taking initiative behind the scenes, making quick decisions when needed, and ensuring things run efficiently. She values structure and takes her responsibilities seriously, whether it’s related to school events or group rehearsals.
She’s also very detail-oriented—almost perfectionistic at times. If something’s off, Kinako Sakurakoji will notice it immediately. Whether it’s a scheduling conflict or a minor mistake in choreography, she won’t hesitate to point it out. Some might see her as strict or overly serious, but in reality, she just wants everything to go well. That sense of duty and high standards aligns closely with typical ESTJ traits. So while she may not lead with charisma like some other types, her leadership shows up in consistency, reliability, and a no-nonsense approach to problem-solving.
Looking at her from an Enneagram perspective, Kinako Sakurakoji seems to lean toward Type Six—the Loyalist. This makes a lot of sense when you consider her deep loyalty to her teammates, her constant concern for group harmony, and her tendency to worry about what could go wrong. She’s always thinking ahead, preparing for challenges, and trying to make sure everyone feels safe and included. These are classic signs of a Six, especially one motivated by a desire for security and trust within relationships.
That said, her anxiety can sometimes hold her back. There are moments when she second-guesses herself or freezes up when faced with uncertainty. Taking risks doesn’t come naturally to her, and she often seeks reassurance from others before moving forward. Still, over the course of the series, Kinako Sakurakoji learns to manage these fears better, gradually building confidence in her own judgment.
Of course, it’s worth remembering that personality typing—whether MBTI or Enneagram—isn’t set in stone, especially for fictional characters. People are complex, and Kinako Sakurakoji is no exception. While she exhibits many traits associated with ESTJ and Type Six, she also shows moments of sensitivity, introspection, and warmth that go beyond any single label.
All in all, Kinako Sakurakoji’s story is one of quiet strength, gradual growth, and unwavering dedication. From her early days of nervous hesitation to stepping onto the stage with growing confidence, she proves that being an idol isn’t just about talent—it’s about courage, connection, and heart. And as one of the central figures in Love Live! Superstar!!, Kinako Sakurakoji continues to leave a lasting impression on fans around the world.
I must take responsibility for my own happiness.