Let’s talk about Nobu Shimoguchi — a name that definitely stands out in the world of Tokyo Ghoul. If you’re even slightly familiar with the series, whether through the original manga or the anime adaptation, you’ve probably come across this quiet yet deeply compelling character. Nobu Shimoguchi first shows up at the beginning of the second season, and despite not being part of the main cast from the start, he quickly becomes one of the most memorable figures in the story.
So, who exactly is Nobu Shimoguchi? Well, he’s a ghoul — a creature that looks human but has supernatural abilities and, yes, a craving for human flesh. But here’s the twist: Nobu isn’t your typical violent ghoul. In fact, he’s quite the opposite. He’s gentle, thoughtful, and genuinely wants to live peacefully, away from the chaos and bloodshed that define so much of the ghoul world. That said, his kind nature often makes him a target. Other ghouls see his calm demeanor as weakness and try to manipulate him, using Nobu Shimoguchi as a pawn in their darker schemes.
One of the most interesting things about Nobu Shimoguchi is his past. As the series unfolds, we learn that he was raised by a human family, which adds a whole layer of emotional complexity to his identity. He’s caught between two worlds — not fully accepted by humans, yet also distanced from other ghouls because of his moral stance. This internal struggle makes Nobu Shimoguchi such a richly developed character. You can’t help but feel for him as he navigates questions of belonging, purpose, and self-worth.
It’s safe to say that Nobu Shimoguchi plays a crucial role in Tokyo Ghoul. His presence adds depth to the narrative and helps explore some of the show’s central themes — identity, isolation, and what it means to be “human.” Whether you’re a long-time fan revisiting the series or someone just getting into it, paying attention to Nobu Shimoguchi’s journey gives you a clearer picture of the emotional and philosophical layers that make Tokyo Ghoul so impactful.
Now, when it comes to personality typing, Nobu Shimoguchi fits the ISTJ profile pretty well — that’s Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging, for those not familiar with Myers-Briggs. He’s naturally reserved, especially around people he doesn’t know, which clearly points to introversion. He’s also extremely detail-oriented, especially in his work, where remembering facts and procedures matters. That’s classic sensing behavior.
What really seals the ISTJ deal, though, is how Nobu approaches problems. He’s logical, level-headed, and doesn’t let emotions cloud his judgment — textbook thinking preference. And let’s not forget his need for order. Nobu thrives on structure, follows rules meticulously, and seems uncomfortable with unpredictability. All of this lines up perfectly with the judging aspect of his personality. So yeah, Nobu Shimoguchi is a strong example of an ISTJ — methodical, dependable, and quietly principled.
But there’s more to him than just MBTI. Looking at the Enneagram, Nobu Shimoguchi appears to be a 5w4 — that is, a Type 5 with a 4 wing. This makes a lot of sense. Type 5s are all about understanding the world through knowledge, and Nobu is constantly observing, analyzing, and researching. He doesn’t act impulsively; he watches, learns, and then decides. His 4 wing brings in a more introspective, almost artistic side. It explains why he values authenticity and seems drawn to deeper, more meaningful experiences rather than surface-level interactions.
You can see this 5w4 blend in how Nobu carries himself — quiet, reflective, and somewhat detached, yet deeply feeling underneath. He’s not loud or dramatic, but his inner world is full of complexity. That combination of intellectual curiosity and emotional sensitivity is exactly what makes Nobu Shimoguchi such a standout character.
In the end, Nobu Shimoguchi isn’t just another side character in Tokyo Ghoul — he’s a vital piece of the puzzle. His personality, shaped by both trauma and compassion, invites viewers to think more deeply about empathy, identity, and the cost of survival. Whether you’re analyzing him through MBTI, Enneagram, or just as a narrative figure, Nobu Shimoguchi leaves a lasting impression. And honestly, once you get to know Nobu Shimoguchi, it’s hard to forget him.
I don't really care whether people live or die.