Have you ever heard terms like "Himono Onna" or "Fujoshi" in Japanese dramas and anime? These phrases have evolved, and in recent years, more variations of "○○-kei Joshi" and "○○-kei Danshi" have emerged, such as "Jirai-kei Joshi," "Minato-ku Joshi," and "Nikushoku-kei Danshi." In this article, we will introduce some of the most commonly used "○○-kei Joshi/Danshi" in Japan, explaining their meanings and characteristics in terms of personality and fashion. Which type do you belong to?
Personality Type ①: What is "Jirai-kei Joshi"? What is "Intelli-kei Danshi"?
地雷系女子 (Emotionally volatile girl) / ぴえん系女子 (Cutesy and clingy girl)
"Jirai-kei Joshi" is characterized by dark-colored outfits and bold makeup. Their emotions tend to be unstable, with dramatic mood swings, which is why they are called "Jirai-kei" ("landmine-type"), reflecting their explosive emotional tendencies. They are highly sensitive and easily hurt, but they also have deep affection. Once they open their hearts to someone, they become deeply devoted.
サバサバ系女子 (Cool and independent girl)
"Saba-saba-kei Joshi" refers to women who have a straightforward and carefree personality, showing little interest in others in a good way. They dislike flattery, speak their minds openly, and have an independent mindset. However, there is also a type often ridiculed as a "self-proclaimed Saba-saba-kei Joshi." These individuals tend to have a strong need for validation, often talking about themselves excessively.
理系男子 (Science guy)
"Rikei Danshi" refers to men who studied science and engineering subjects in school or have a logical, analytical way of thinking. They excel at approaching things rationally and tend to be calm and composed, with little emotional fluctuation. Since scientific fields require perseverance and precision, many of them are also diligent and detail-oriented. On the other hand, their deep focus on tasks can lead them to prioritize work over relationships, sometimes isolating themselves in their own world.
インテリ系男子 (Intellectual guy)
"Intelli-kei Danshi" are men with extensive knowledge and education, exuding an intellectual and refined aura. They are known for their composed speech and sophisticated demeanor and enjoy engaging in intellectual and logical discussions. However, the term can also be used mockingly to describe men who boast about their intelligence and knowledge.
こじらせ男子 (Socially awkward guy)
"Kojirase-kei Danshi" refers to men who have unique obsessions or biases about romance and relationships, often overthinking things in a negative way. Their personalities can be extreme, either having a high sense of pride or an exceptionally low self-esteem, making it difficult for them to develop romantic relationships. Despite this, they often have a sensitive and easily hurt inner side.
Personality Type ②: Food-based Personality Types – "Nikushoku-kei," "Soushoku-kei," and more
肉食系女子・肉食系男子 (Go-getter in relationships)
This term describes people who take an assertive approach in romance and relationships. "Nikushoku-kei Joshi" are confident and proactive in love, often making the first move. They are comfortable with physical touch, openly expressing affection, and are not afraid to confess their feelings. "Nikushoku-kei Danshi" have a masculine, ambitious, and positive personality. They actively ask for contact information, invite people out for meals, and take the lead in dating situations.
草食系女子・草食系男子 (Passive in dating)
In contrast to "Nikushoku-kei (Go-getter in relationships)," these individuals are passive or reserved when it comes to romance. "Soushoku-kei Joshi" are quiet, gentle, and shy, often taking a passive role in relationships. Similarly, "Soushoku-kei Danshi" do not actively pursue romantic interests and are usually not overly focused on love. They tend to prioritize their hobbies and personal interests over dating, valuing their own time above all.
ロールキャベツ系女子・ロールキャベツ系男子 (Looks shy but actually bold in love)
A middle ground between "Nikushoku-kei (Go-getter in relationships)" and "Soushoku-kei (Passive in dating)." These individuals may appear passive at first but are actually quite assertive in relationships. "Roll Cabbage-kei Joshi" seem demure on the outside but are bold and proactive in love, unafraid to make their feelings known. "Roll Cabbage-kei Danshi" often have a refreshing and mild outward appearance, but when alone with someone they like, they show a more masculine and assertive side, actively pursuing the person they are interested in.
絶食系女子・絶食系男子 (Romantically detached)
Unlike "Nikushoku-kei" or "Soushoku-kei," these individuals have no interest in romance at all. "Zesshoku-kei Joshi" do not dislike men or struggle with relationships; they simply prefer to focus on themselves and their personal lives rather than dating. "Zesshoku-kei Danshi" have the same mindset—they see romance as unnecessary and prioritize other aspects of life. However, both tend to have many friends and are often good at socializing.
Personality Type ③: Animal-based Personalities – "Puppy-like," "Cat-like," and More
犬系女子・犬系男子 (Puppy-like personality)
People with a "puppy-like personality" are affectionate and expressive, much like dogs. "Puppy-kei Joshi" are bright, cheerful, and incapable of telling lies, embodying a pure-hearted nature. However, they can also be clingy and skilled at seeking attention when they feel lonely. Similarly, "Puppy-kei Danshi" have an innocent and friendly disposition, often radiating warmth with their smiles. In relationships, they are devoted to their loved ones, remaining loyal and affectionate, just like a dog that follows its owner faithfully.
猫系女子・猫系男子 (Cat-like personality)
A "cat-like personality" refers to people who are independent and dislike being tied down, much like cats. "Cat-kei Joshi" are known for their "tsundere" nature, switching between being aloof and affectionate. They value freedom but will approach others when they want attention or affection. "Cat-kei Danshi" dislike rigid rules and prefer acting on their own terms rather than following group norms. Since they cherish their personal space, they tend to prioritize alone time.
ウサギ系女子・ウサギ系男子 (Bunny-like personality)
People with a "bunny-like personality" are sensitive to loneliness and crave attention, much like rabbits. "Bunny-kei Joshi" are particularly sensitive to being alone and excel at showing their affectionate side. "Bunny-kei Danshi" have a gentle and endearing presence, often taking great care of their appearance, which gives them a clean and well-groomed look. Though initially shy, once they open up to someone, they become affectionate and may even show a slightly spoiled side.
キツネ系女子・キツネ系男子 (Fox-like personality)
In Japan, foxes are often seen as cunning and elusive creatures, so a "fox-like personality" describes someone mysterious and hard to read. "Fox-kei Joshi" are thoughtful and observant, making them excellent at reading the room and anticipating others' needs, often being perceived as perceptive and considerate. "Fox-kei Danshi" are serious and cautious, preferring stability over major changes. Like their female counterparts, they are skilled at understanding social dynamics, making them good at interpersonal relationships.
タヌキ系女子 (Raccoon-like personality)
"Tanuki-kei Joshi" have a warm and approachable aura, creating a relaxing atmosphere for those around them. A defining feature is their round and soft facial features, often with large, expressive eyes. Their gentle and easygoing nature makes them naturally sociable and considerate, making them well-loved by both men and women.
ゴリラ系男子 (Strong and tough guy)
Due to their strong and powerful image, "Gorilla-kei Danshi" are known for their physical and mental toughness. They are often found in athletic or sports-oriented circles, characterized by their disciplined and hardworking nature. They are serious, well-mannered, and push themselves to the limit. While they hold themselves to high standards, they also have a kind heart and a surprisingly sensitive side.
Appearance and fashion: Neat girls, street boys, etc.
清楚系女子 (Elegant and modest girl)
People with a "Seiso-kei" style are known for their simple and refined appearance. They prefer modest outfits in white, pastel, or other soft tones, avoiding excessive exposure. Their makeup is natural, and their hair is often long, dark, and glossy. Their personality tends to be calm and polite, leaving an impression of femininity and elegance.
量産型女子 (Cookie-cutter girl)
"Ryosan-gata Joshi" refers to women who embrace the latest trends in fashion and makeup, often following popular styles. Because they adopt widely trending looks, their appearance tends to resemble others with similar fashion choices, leading to the term "mass-produced" (Ryosan-gata).
美魔女 (Timelessly beautiful woman)
A term coined by fashion media, "Bimajo" refers to women aged 35 and older who maintain a youthful glow. They not only focus on their external beauty but also cultivate inner elegance through their life experiences.
森ガール (Forest girl)
"Mori Girl" describes women who wear loose, natural clothing that hides their body lines, resembling an ethereal presence in a forest. This style peaked around 2009.
塩顔男子 (Delicate and cool-looking guy)
Men with a "shio-gao" face have thin eyes, pale lips, and delicate nose lines, giving them a refreshing and clean look. They often have an androgynous aura, a slim physique, and prefer hairstyles like a tousled natural look or a mushroom cut.
爬虫類系男子 (Reptile-like guy)
Men with a "hachu-rui gao" (reptilian face) have wide-set eyes, a well-defined nose bridge, and a sharp, triangular face shape. Their skin is usually fair and translucent, with prominent lips. These unique features give them an enigmatic and mysterious charm.
メガネ女子・メガネ男子 (Glasses-wearing girl/guy)
Men and women who wear glasses are often perceived as intelligent and serious. The type of frames can greatly influence their impression, and many wear "fake glasses" as a fashion statement.
ストリート系女子・ストリート系男子 (Street-style girl/guy)
People who favor street fashion, including sneakers, caps, and hoodies, inspired by hip-hop and skater culture. The oversized and loose silhouettes, along with unisex designs, make it a popular choice for expressing individuality across various age groups.
ぽっちゃり系女子・ぽっちゃり系男子 (Chubby but cute girl/guy)
Individuals with a rounder physique who are often seen as kind, warm, and comforting. The positive perception of "Pocchari-kei" has led to the rise of "chubby idols" and "plus-size models" in Japan.
Hobby-Based Personalities: Minato Ward Women (Glamorous Tokyo socialite), Hipster Guy, and More
港区女子 (Glamorous Tokyo socialite)
Women who frequent luxurious areas of Minato Ward, such as Roppongi, Azabu, and Akasaka. They have a keen sense of fashion and beauty, wear designer accessories, and often share their glamorous lifestyle on social media.
腐女子・百合女子 (Fujoshi・Yuri-loving girl)
Women who are passionate about Boys' Love (BL) media, which features romantic relationships between male characters. Some "hidden fujoshi" keep their interest private, while others openly embrace the community. Women who enjoy stories focused on romantic or intimate relationships between female characters, inspired by the term "yuri" (meaning lily), which symbolizes female same-sex relationships in Japanese media.
夢女子 (Character-loving girl)
Women who develop romantic fantasies about fictional characters, imagining themselves in relationships with them. The term originated from "Yume Shousetsu" (dream novels), where fans create personalized romance stories with their favorite characters. A similar term, "Ria-ko" (short for "real-koishiteru" or "really in love"), refers to fans who have genuine romantic feelings for idols or actors they may never meet.
オタク系女子・オタク系男子 (Otaku girl/guy)
Women and men who are immersed in a specific field such as anime, manga, games, idols, tokusatsu, railroads, plastic models, etc. In addition, the enjoyment of supporting and collecting things in the field in which you are immersed is called "ota-katsu", which has a similar meaning to the "push activity" that we often hear these days. In addition, there are various otaku terms such as "precious", "swamp", and "bride".
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サブカル系女子・サブカル系男子 (Hipster girl/guy)
Individuals who prefer niche music, fashion, films, and literature over mainstream trends. They take pride in discovering hidden gems and enjoy being part of an exclusive, alternative scene. Their fashion choices often include vintage clothing or unique patterned items.
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