Taro: The Anatomical Model from Dandadan Who Came to Life

In the world of Dandadan, few characters are as unique and intriguing as Taro. An anthropomorphized anatomical model with human-like qualities, Taro has captured the imagination of fans with his bizarre yet endearing story. From his initial introduction to his emotional struggles, Taro’s journey through the Kintama Hunt Saga and the Evil Eye Arc provides a fascinating look at the unusual characters that populate this world.

Who is Taro in Dandadan?

Taro (Japanese: 太郎, Tarō) is an anthropomorphic anatomical model that resides in Kami High. Unlike any ordinary character, Taro’s design sets him apart from other beings in Dandadan—his right side is an exposed muscle, while his left half consists of his skin. Despite his unusual appearance, Taro is a deeply emotional and complex character who is deeply in love with Hana, a key figure in the series.

Taro’s Unique Appearance and Anatomical Features

One of the most striking aspects of Taro is his appearance. As an anatomical model, his body is an eerie blend of muscle and skin, with his right side displaying detailed muscles and his left half covered by skin. Additionally, his shaved haircut adds to his distinctive look. This visual design makes Taro instantly recognizable and underscores his unusual nature within the world of Dandadan.

Taro’s Personality: A Deep Love for Hana

At his core, Taro is a character driven by love and a desire for connection. His devotion to Hana is clear throughout the series, especially when he is willing to reassemble his disassembled body just to be by her side. Even when Hana tells him to leave, fearing that he would become “trash” like her, Taro’s response is one of unconditional love, showing his willingness to go to any lengths to stay close to her.

This romantic and sometimes tragic love story is one of the defining elements of Taro’s personality and adds emotional depth to his character.

Taro’s Role in the Dandadan Storylines

The Kintama Hunt Saga and Cursed House Arc

In the Kintama Hunt Saga, Taro’s pursuit of Hana leads him into a series of chaotic events. After learning of Hana’s location, he rushes out of Kami High, but not without attracting the attention of Momo, Okarun, and Jiji. These characters try to stop him, believing that a Christmas ornament hanging from his crotch is the key to retrieving Okarun’s missing kintama.

Despite their efforts, Taro evades their attempts and, after a painful encounter with Momo, finds Hana in a garbage pile. This emotional moment underscores Taro’s devotion as he refuses to leave Hana, even when she requests that he let her go. His deep feelings for her are evident, and he will stop at nothing to ensure she is not abandoned.

Later, Taro assists Seiko, Momo, and others in dealing with the Evil Eye, an entity that has possessed Jiji. By using his anatomical body, Taro helps to seal the Evil Eye inside him temporarily, displaying his selflessness and determination to help those around him.

The Evil Eye Arc

In the Evil Eye Arc, after Taro’s body is used to hold the Evil Eye within Jiji, he experiences a mix of frustration and relief. Though he helps Seiko and others by keeping the Evil Eye sealed inside him, he wishes for some personal time with Hana. Unfortunately, his interactions with Jiji, who is under the Evil Eye’s influence, continue to interfere with his alone time with her.

Eventually, Taro is able to release himself from Jiji, allowing him to finally relax and reflect on the sacrifices he made for the greater good. His journey in the Evil Eye Arc further illustrates his devotion to those he cares about and his struggle to balance his personal desires with his responsibilities.

Taro’s Abilities and Powers

Physical Prowess

Taro possesses immense speed, able to match Okarun in his Turbo Granny form. His stamina and endurance are equally remarkable, allowing him to travel at high speeds without tiring, such as when he rushed to the junkyard to rescue Hana. This physical prowess makes Taro a formidable character in the Dandadan universe.

Disassembly and Reassembly

As an anatomical model, Taro has the unique ability to disassemble and reassemble his body at will. This ability becomes crucial during various battles and encounters. For instance, when Momo attempts to restrain him with her psychic powers, Taro disassembles his body to break free. However, this ability has its drawbacks, as it leaves him vulnerable when parts of his body, such as his heart, are separated or seized.

Despite these vulnerabilities, Taro uses his disassembly powers to help others, including when he assists in sealing the Evil Eye inside his body to protect Jiji. His willingness to sacrifice his own comfort for the safety of others highlights his selfless nature.

Taro: An Urban Legend in Dandadan

Taro’s status as an urban legend within the world of Dandadan further deepens his mystique. As a living anatomical model, he is often associated with the eerie notion that he comes to life at night. In his role as an anatomical model in the science laboratory, his eyes are said to follow anyone who enters the room, adding an unsettling layer to his already unusual presence.

The Etymology of Taro’s Name

The name Taro (太郎, Tarō) carries a significant meaning in Japanese. “Taro” combines the kanji for “thick, big, great” (太, ta) and “son” (郎, ro), which often signifies the first-born son. Additionally, “Taro” is a common and generic name in Japan, much like “John Doe” in English, which ties into his ordinary yet extraordinary status in the Dandadan universe.