Wrinkles and white hair are not indications of weakness. In fact, within the anime, most of the time older characters possess an incredible amount of power and skill, which is definitely a plus to the priceless wisdom they offer younger characters. It makes sense if one thinks about it logically, most of these elderly characters have had years to hone their abilities and so much more experience to polish their strengths. It’s no wonder that many of the younger protagonists look up to these elderly characters for mentorship. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most powerful elderly anime characters of all time!

MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY

7 Hiruzen Sarutobi - Naruto

     Madman EntertainmentViz Media

There’s no denying that the late Third Hokage in Naruto held an incredible amount of power. Known as the “god of shinobi”, Hiruzen has immense power and a reservoir of chakras. Moreover, the old man was a walking encyclopedia of Jutsu-related knowledge, which isn’t surprising considering his experience and age. He had perfected every type of natural transformation and Jutsu. It’s rather heartbreaking to see his life being taken by none other than his favorite student, Orochimaru. However, it’s not in vain. While the Third Hokage is unable to completely take down Orochimaru with the Dead Demon Consuming Seal, he is able to seal the latter’s powers long enough to prevent major damage to Konoha.

MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY

MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY

MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY

6 Genkai - Yu Yu Hakusho

     Cartoon NetworkViz MediaMedia LinkCrunchyroll

Yusuke’s mentor Genkai was no joke when it came to her strength and fighting techniques. As a young woman, Genkai won the Dark Tournament and had the strength to match those in Upper B Class. As a master of the Spirit Wave fighting technique, Genkai is able to turn her whole body into a weapon to defeat her enemies. Some of her other abilities include Paralyzing Touch, Spirit Barrier, and even healing abilities. Though her training methods may seem harsh, there’s no denying how much she cared about Yusuke. It is because of Genkai that Yusuke is able to learn a variety of techniques including the Spirit Shotgun, Spirit Wave, and Spirit Energy. Moreover, Yusuke wasn’t the only one under her mentorship. Others like Jin, Toya, and Suzuki were able to learn a variety of techniques from her.

5 Yoshimura - Tokyo Ghoul

     CrunchyrollTokyo Mx

The manager of the Anteiku café seems harmless at first appearance as he takes in Kaneki, the human-ghoul hybrid under his wing. However, it is eventually revealed that he’s an SSS-rated ghoul, who was able to gain his ability by cannibalizing his own kind. Yoshimura values life above all else and does not take lightly people who kill just for the sake of it. Yoshimura is immensely powerful, with super strength, speed, and durability. Even when hurt, he can regenerate with ease. In addition, what makes him stand out from other ghouls is his ability to shoot RC projectiles from any part of his body.

4 Bang - One Punch Man

     Viz Media CrunchyrollTV TokyoMuse Communication

Also known by his hero alias Silver Fang, Bang was once the highest S-Class hero at the Hero Association. He’s also well known as one of the most powerful heroes, an exception even within the S-Class heroes, in addition to being one of the greatest masters of martial arts. His training as a hero and as a martial artist has made him stronger, faster, and more durable than others.

Bang’s specialty is his Water Stream Smashing Fist, which is a technique he developed himself which resembles tai chi and in Geno’s words is “the perfect blend of offense and defense”. Bang eventually retired and focused on recruiting new disciples in his dojo in Z-City, with Saitama and Genos being his main targets.

3 Whitebeard - One Piece

     Toei AnimationFUNimationAdult SwimCartoon Network

Edward Newgate, or more popularly known as Whitebeard, is the captain of the Whitebeard Pirates. During his youth, he was the only pirate to have the strength to rival Gol D. Roger, the pirate king, due to which he’s known as the “Strongest Man in the World”. After the death of Roger, Whitebeard became one of the Four Emperors, the four most powerful pirates in the world who rule the New World. Not only did he hold the highest bounty among all the other pirates, but he also had the second-highest bounty recorded in history. Despite his declining health during the latter years of his life, Whitebeard’s strength remained monumental, and he remained as one of the most dangerous pirates. Moreover, notwithstanding Whitebeard’s gigantic size, the pirate is able to move at considerable speed, appearing behind his enemies in a matter of seconds.

2 Isaac Netero - Hunter x Hunter

     Viz MediaFuji TV

Issac Netero, the 12th chairman of the Hunter Association, didn’t just earn his seat for nothing. He’s known as the strongest hunter, training for over 50 years to achieve the strength and ability that he possesses. During his youth, Netero was the strongest Nen user and to date, his Nen abilities are no joke. Many fans argue that Netero is one of the most legendary shonen characters to exist. Moreover, the Chimera Arc wouldn’t have been as iconic as it was if it weren’t for the chairman. Perhaps Netero’s most impressive ability is the 100-Type Guanyin Bodhisattva, which allows him to summon a giant golden Buddha, causing havoc upon his opponents. Moreover, Netero is the only person who has even come close to physically damaging Meruem, the King of the Chimera Ants.

1 Genryusai Yamamoto - Bleach

     Viz MediaTv TokyoMedia Link

It doesn’t get any older than Genryusai Yamamoto. Being more than 2,000 years old, the founder of the Shino Academy is no joke when it comes to his strengths and abilities. Yamamoto served not only as the captain of the first Division of the Gotei 13 but was also the captain commander of the whole Gotei 13. Being a warrior with over two millennia’ worth of combat experience made Yamamoto the most powerful swordsman in Soul Society. Even without his sword, Yamamoto is quite dangerous given his mastery of hand-to-hand combat. Perhaps one of his most dangerous and terrifying abilities is Zanka no Tachi, Minami: Kaka Jūmanokushi Daisojin which allows him to reanimate the ashes of the dead to have them fight by his side.