Masks add an element of mystery to the anime characters we love. And, aside from the striking design and features, another thing that can make a mask iconic is the reason why a character wears it－the story behind the mask.
Let’s check out some of the anime masks that have made the most definite and lasting impression on anime lovers worldwide.
Kakashi’s mask (Naruto)
Design: black anime mask that covers half of Kakashi’s face
Kakashi has donned this simple mask for pretty much forever. The secret behind what lies underneath may be the biggest mystery of the entire Naruto saga.
Mamoru Chiba’s mask (Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon)
Design: simple white masquerade mask
Mamoru Chiba’s alter ego, Tuxedo Mask, wears a white mask to complement his black tuxedo.
Kagetane’s mask (Black Bullet)
Design: a white mask which exposes portions of Kagetane’s eyes and jawline
Kagetane dons a mask that suggests his real personality.
Hei’s mask (Darker than Black: Kuro no Keiyakusha)
Design: a white mask with a purple lightning symbol on the right eye and a red slit across the mouth
In order to hide his real identity, Hei wears this anime mask when taking on different jobs from The Syndicate.
Zero’s mask(Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch)
Design: a black and indigo mask which appears opaque on the outside, but is actually transparent from the inside
Lelouch’s alter ego Zero dons his signature mask in order to hide his true identity as he makes his rebellion against the Britannian Empire. Moreover, a small part of this anime mask can be moved down in order to expose Lelouch’s Geass*
Kaneki’s mask (Tokyo Ghoul)
Design: a black leather mask which exposes Kaneki’s left eye and hair, and features a zipper in its mouth area in order to make eating more convenient
Kaneki wears an anime mask created by Uta which was inspired by Kaneki’s condition after he becomes a “One-Eyed Ghoul“.
Ichigo’s mask (Bleach)
Design: a white mask with dark red designs that change patterns throughout the course of the series
Ichigo dons this hollow mask whenever he engages in battle.
Sogeking’s mask (One Piece)
Design: a yellow and blue pointed mask which exposes Usopp’s nose and eyes
Usopp’s alter ego Sogeking dons an anime mask to hide his identity from the other Straw Hat members following his “leave” from the crew.
Tobi’s mask (Naruto: Shippuuden)
Design: an orange swirling mask which exposes Tobi’s right eye
Tobi wears an orange mask in order to hide his real identity.
No Face’s mask (Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi [Spirited Away])
Design: a white mask with purple marks on both eyes
And last but not least, we have No Face. Although it is not certain if this is a mask or No Face’s actual face, the indifferent expression shown is one that will haunt you for ages!